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Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

  • Author: Christopher
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes (high)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Tender and flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs made with simple ingredients for a hands-off meal. This comforting dish fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and requires minimal prep, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or relaxed weekends.

Ingredients

Protein

  • Chicken thighs: bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor and juiciness
  • Smoked turkey bacon: sliced into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • Garlic cloves: peeled and roughly chopped
  • Onion: peeled and roughly chopped

Liquids & Seasonings

  • Apple cider vinegar: for gentle tanginess
  • Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce: for umami depth
  • Salt and pepper: to taste

Herbs & Optional Toppings

  • Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary): evenly distributed
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal): optional topping for melting finish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Peel and roughly chop the onion and garlic cloves. Slice the smoked turkey bacon into bite-sized pieces. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help with browning if desired.
  2. Layer flavors in the slow cooker: Place the onion and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful bed. Arrange the chicken thighs on top with the skin side up, then evenly sprinkle the smoked turkey bacon pieces over them. Distribute the fresh herbs across the dish.
  3. Add seasonings and liquids: Pour the apple cider vinegar and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce over the ingredients, making sure the seasonings spread evenly. Season with salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
  4. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. This long cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  5. Optional finishing touches: In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) over the chicken thighs if desired. Cover again to melt the cheese perfectly before serving.

Notes

  • Dry the chicken: Patting the skin dry before cooking improves texture and allows for crispier skin if broiled after slow cooking.
  • Don’t overcrowd: Give each chicken piece space for even cooking and better flavor absorption.
  • Brown for extra flavor: Sear the chicken thighs skin side down in a hot skillet before slow cooking for enhanced flavor and texture.
  • Herb freshness: Add fresh herbs halfway through cooking for a brighter, more vibrant aroma.
  • Check liquid levels: If the sauce seems too watery near the end, remove the lid and cook on high for 15 minutes to reduce.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg

Keywords: slow cooker chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, slow cooked chicken, comfort food, weeknight dinners, gluten free chicken

Find it online: https://easyrecipeplanet.com/slow-cooker-chicken-thighs/