Are you tired of coming home to a empty kitchen after a long day at work? Do you wish you had more time to cook up a delicious meal for yourself and your loved ones? Look no further! Chicken thighs in crockpots are the perfect solution for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have a mouth-watering dish ready to devour in no time.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering chicken thigh recipes that will take your meals from bland to grand. From classic comfort foods like BBQ and honey garlic, to international flavors like teriyaki and coconut curry, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your crockpot and let’s get started!
Honey Garlic Crockpot Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the richness of honey and garlic with the tenderizing power of slow-cooking, resulting in fall-apart chicken thighs that are perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the honey-garlic mixture over them.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove the chicken from the crockpot and serve with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs
Perfect for a busy day or a weekend gathering, this recipe yields tender and flavorful chicken thighs smothered in a rich BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
• 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. In a slow cooker, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and chicken broth. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and brush with the BBQ sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thighs in Crockpot
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this rich and satisfying recipe that combines the comfort of chicken thighs with the earthiness of mushrooms. This creamy slow-cooked dish is perfect for a busy evening when you want to come home to a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with thyme, paprika, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken in the crockpot and sprinkle with sliced mushrooms.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk.
4. Pour the mixture over the chicken and mushrooms in the crockpot.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Crockpot Chicken Thighs with Peppers
This recipe is a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional chicken thighs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of diced green chilies
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin.
2. In the crockpot, combine the sliced onion and bell peppers.
3. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.
4. Sprinkle the minced garlic and diced green chilies over the chicken.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the top.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Lemon Herb Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your mealtime with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the tanginess of lemon with the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Teriyaki Chicken Thighs in Crockpot
This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional teriyaki chicken, with the added convenience of cooking in your crockpot. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a stress-free Sunday supper.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. In the crockpot, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add chicken thighs to the mixture, making sure they are coated evenly.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove chicken from the crockpot and brush with sesame oil.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Chicken Thighs with Potatoes and Carrots
This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or weekend dinner. With minimal prep and tender results, you’ll be enjoying this delicious crockpot recipe in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4-5 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or dried thyme for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and any desired additional seasonings.
2. In the crockpot, combine the chicken, potatoes, carrots, and onion.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Garlic Parmesan Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs
Transform your dinner routine with this simple and savory slow cooker recipe. Tender chicken thighs smothered in a rich garlic parmesan sauce, perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the minced garlic and olive oil. Add the chicken thighs, arranging them in a single layer.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the chicken.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Mexican Crockpot Chicken Thighs with Black Beans
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this easy and delicious crockpot recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Tender chicken thighs cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce with black beans, onions, and bell peppers will transport your taste buds to the heart of Mexico.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken thighs in a crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, black beans, onion, bell pepper, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
4. Add chicken broth to the crockpot.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs in Creamy Tomato Sauce
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe
Tender chicken thighs smothered in a rich and creamy tomato sauce, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Place the cooked onion and garlic mixture at the bottom of a slow cooker. Arrange the chicken thighs on top.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream. Pour the tomato-cream mixture over the chicken thighs.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Asian-Style Crockpot Chicken Thighs with Soy and Ginger
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, you’ll be enjoying tender and juicy chicken thighs in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar.
2. Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the soy mixture over them.
3. Add sesame oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Herbed Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with White Wine
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic slow cooker recipe, where the tanginess of white wine pairs perfectly with the herby goodness of thyme and rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup white wine (dry or off-dry)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, and oregano.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Pour white wine over the chicken, making sure they’re mostly submerged.
6. Top each thigh with a spoonful of the herb mixture.
7. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Crockpot Chicken Thighs with Sweet and Sour Glaze
Sweet and Sour Chicken Thighs in a Crockpot Recipe
This mouth-watering recipe is perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a delicious meal with minimal effort. By combining chicken thighs, sweet and sour glaze, and the magic of your slow cooker, you’ll be enjoying tender and flavorful chicken in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken thighs in your Crockpot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, ketchup, honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Pour the glaze over the chicken thighs.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs in Coconut Curry Sauce
Experience the warmth of Indian-inspired flavors with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe. Tender chicken thighs smothered in a rich and creamy coconut curry sauce, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken thighs, coconut milk, onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Maple Dijon Crockpot Chicken Thighs
This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring maple syrup and dijon mustard to create a sticky and aromatic chicken dish. With minimal prep time and effortless cooking, this crockpot recipe is a weeknight staple.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, dijon mustard, and olive oil.
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Place the chicken in the crockpot and pour the maple-mustard mixture over the top.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Green Beans and Almonds
This simple recipe combines the flavors of chicken, green beans, and toasted almonds for a deliciously healthy meal. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a nutritious dinner ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
2. Add chicken thighs, green beans, and sliced almonds on top of the mixture.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Smoky Paprika Crockpot Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the richness of chicken thighs with the deep, smoky flavor of paprika and a hint of spice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure that the chicken is covered.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Apples and Onions
This recipe is a perfect blend of tender chicken, sweet apples, and caramelized onions, all slow-cooked to perfection in your favorite crock pot. It’s an easy and comforting meal that’s sure to become a fall family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chicken broth for extra moisture
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken thighs, onion slices, apple slices, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Check for tenderness; if needed, add chicken broth and cook an additional 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Apples and Onions!
Tuscan-Inspired Crockpot Chicken Thighs with Spinach
Experience the rich flavors of Tuscany with this easy and delicious crockpot recipe, featuring tender chicken thighs smothered in a savory spinach sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place chicken thighs in the crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, combine diced tomatoes, spinach, garlic, olive oil, and oregano.
3. Pour the tomato-spinach mixture over the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs in Creamy Pesto Sauce
Elevate your mealtime with this rich and flavorful slow cooker recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Tender chicken thighs are smothered in a creamy pesto sauce that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the chicken, pesto sauce, heavy cream, and olive oil.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering chicken thigh recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods to international flavors, these slow cooker meals are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Try Honey Garlic Crockpot Chicken Thighs, Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs, or Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thighs in Crockpot, among many others. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes have got you covered.
