Description
This Crockpot Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, flavorful bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs slow-cooked to perfection. The chicken is first seasoned with a smoky and savory spice rub, seared to develop a crispy crust, then slow-cooked with garlic and chicken broth for juicy, melt-in-your-mouth results. This easy, hands-off recipe makes for a comforting and delicious meal perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 lbs of bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
Additional Ingredients
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly and place them in a large bowl to get ready for seasoning.
- Make the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to create a balanced, smoky seasoning blend.
- Coat Chicken with Oil: Add olive oil to the chicken thighs and toss well to evenly coat each piece, ensuring the spice rub adheres nicely.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the prepared spice rub over the chicken thighs in the bowl. Toss thoroughly to coat each thigh evenly with the spices.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin side down and cook for 4-5 minutes to develop a crispy, golden-brown crust on the skin.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker bowl and add the chopped garlic. Stir to distribute the garlic evenly throughout the broth.
- Slow Cook: Transfer the seared chicken thighs to the slow cooker skin side up. Cover and cook on low for 5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 185°F (85°C) and the chicken is tender.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and serve hot with your favorite sides. Enjoy the rich, juicy flavors!
Notes
- Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps achieve a better sear and crispier skin.
- Searing the chicken before slow cooking adds depth of flavor and texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.
- This recipe pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad.
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (approx. 4 oz)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1.5 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
