Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs Recipe

Slow cooker chicken thighs is one of those dinners that you’ll make often, because it’s delicious and simple to throw together.

This recipe is made with honey garlic sauce but you can also use our Best Chicken Thigh Marinade. It’s the perfect meal any day of the week. This is a dinner you put in the slow cooker and forget it for few hours. However, there’s one additional step before serving so remember to come back to make the slurry with cornstarch and water to thicken the flavorful sauce.

Should you brown the meat first?

It’s not really necessary to brown the meat first. Just put the chicken in the slow cooker, add the honey sauce, and cook. However, if you prefer to brown the meat before cooking I recommend cooking the chicken thighs in a frying pan with a little oil for about 3-4 minutes on each side until seared and brown before placing the chicken thighs in the slow cooker to cook.

Can you use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes. You can use chicken breast. Just cut the meat into smaller pieces before cooking. You can also cook other cuts of chicken like legs or wings, but cook it longer than 3 hours since they have bones and they may require a longer cooking time.

How do you prepare chicken thighs for the slow cooker?

There isn’t a lot of preparation needed for this recipe. First, you turn the slow cooker on high, then put chicken thighs in the crock. You can also cook them on low, but it will take about 6 hours to cook. Next, season your chicken with salt and black pepper.

Then, in a small bowl make a mixture of honey and minced garlic, then pour it over the chicken. Cook for 2 hours. At this point, you’ll make a slurry of cornstarch and water then add it to the slow cooker, and cook for another hour. No matter what cut of meat you choose to use, always check that the internal temperature in the thickest part of the chicken (but not touching the bone) is 165°F on an instant read thermometer.

What should you serve with slow cooker chicken thighs?

Chicken thighs will basically go well with any sides. If you are looking for some inspiration, make our Super Tots with bacon and green onion or Roasted Garlic Potatoes made with fresh garlic. Also, you can serve chicken thighs with pasta, buckwheat, or rice.

What are you waiting for? Let’s go make slow cooker chicken thighs.

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