Crock Pot Chicken Thighs

These Crock Pot Chicken Thighs are the ultimate comfort food. Juicy, tender thighs smothered in a deliciously sticky sauce made from garlic, honey, and soy sauce will make your taste buds dance. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners, offering a low-effort meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re hosting friends or cooking for family, these chicken thighs deliver every time.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Chicken Thighs
• Sauce Ingredients
• Garnish (Optional)
• How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
• Step 1: Sear the Chicken
• Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 3: Cook the Chicken
• Step 4: Serve
• Optional – How to Thicken the Sauce:
• Storage Tips:
• How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
• With Rice
• On a Salad
• In Tacos
• With Bread
• How to Perfect Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
• Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
• Reheating Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
• How can I make Crock Pot Chicken Thighs spicy?
• What sides go well with Crock Pot Chicken Thighs?
• Can I double this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this dish comes together in no time.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of honey, soy sauce, and garlic creates a rich sauce that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to special gatherings.
• Slow Cooker Convenience: Set it and forget it! Just let your crock pot do the work while you enjoy your day.
• Leftover Friendly: The chicken keeps well, making it great for meal prep or enjoying leftovers later in the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting this recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
• Crock pot
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Ideal for searing chicken thighs to achieve a beautiful golden crust.
• Crock pot: Allows for low-and-slow cooking that results in tender, juicy meat full of flavor.
• Medium mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Ensures even mixing of the sauce ingredients.

Ingredients

These Crock Pot Chicken Thighs feature a delightful blend of simple ingredients that create an unforgettable meal.

Chicken Thighs

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Sauce Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¾ cup ketchup
• ⅓ cup soy sauce
• ⅓ cup honey
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ¼ teaspoon dried mustard

Garnish (Optional)

• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley

How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Sear them skin side down until golden brown—about 5-7 minutes. Transfer them to the crock pot with the skin side up.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the ketchup, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, onion powder, thyme, parsley, and dried mustard until well combined. Pour this flavorful sauce over the chicken in the crock pot.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 5 hours. The chicken is done when it’s fully cooked and tender, and the sauce has thickened beautifully.

Step 4: Serve

Carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot and arrange it on a serving dish. Spoon some of that luscious sauce over the top and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Optional – How to Thicken the Sauce:

To thicken any leftover sauce from your crock pot:
1. Pour juices into a saucepan.
2. Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water.
3. Whisk this mixture into the sauce and simmer over low heat until thickened.

Storage Tips:

Store any leftover chicken and sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Simply reheat before serving for a quick meal!

This easy recipe yields delicious results every time! Enjoy your flavorful Crock Pot Chicken Thighs, perfect for any dinner occasion!

How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken Thighs

These Crock Pot Chicken Thighs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice – A classic pairing that absorbs the rich sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice – For a healthier option, brown rice adds nuttiness and fiber.

On a Salad

• Mixed Greens – Slice the chicken and serve over fresh greens, topped with the sticky sauce.
• Caesar Salad – Add as a protein to Caesar salad for a delicious twist.

In Tacos

• Chicken Tacos – Shred the chicken and pile it into soft tortillas with your favorite toppings.
• Street-Style Tacos – Serve in mini tortillas with cilantro and onion for a fresh touch.

With Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Use bread to soak up the sauce; perfect for hearty eaters.
• Garlic Bread – Pair with garlic bread for an Italian-inspired meal.

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How to Perfect Crock Pot Chicken Thighs

To ensure your Crock Pot Chicken Thighs turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Bone-In Thighs – Bone-in meat stays juicier during cooking compared to boneless options.
• Sear Before Cooking – Browning the skin adds depth of flavor and enhances texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Crock Pot – Ensure there’s enough space for heat circulation; cook in batches if needed.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and herbs elevate the taste of your sauce significantly.
• Adjust Cooking Time as Needed – Check doneness; not all crock pots cook at the same speed.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Chicken Thighs

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Chicken Thighs can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this dish well:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrients.
3. Coleslaw – Crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the tender chicken.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light, protein-packed salad that pairs well with the sweet sauce.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn serves as an easy, fun addition to any meal.
6. Steamed Broccoli – Simple yet nutritious, broccoli balances richness with its green goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Crock Pot Chicken Thighs is straightforward, but some common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Skipping the Searing Step: Searing the chicken thighs before adding them to the crock pot adds depth of flavor. Don’t skip this crucial step for best results.

• Overcrowding the Crock Pot: If you add too many chicken thighs, they may not cook evenly. Ensure there’s enough space for air circulation; cook in batches if necessary.

• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking times can vary based on your slow cooker model. Always check the chicken for doneness instead of relying solely on time.

• Not Using Enough Sauce: A rich sauce is key to juicy chicken thighs. Make sure to use enough sauce to coat all the pieces for maximum flavor.

• Forgetting to Adjust Seasoning: Every palate is different. Taste and adjust seasoning in the sauce before pouring it over the chicken for optimal flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crock Pot Chicken Thighs in an airtight container.
• They will last for 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crock Pot Chicken Thighs

• Freeze cooked chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Crock Pot Chicken Thighs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth. Place the chicken in and cover until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Crock Pot Chicken Thighs:

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well too! Just adjust cooking time since they might cook faster than bone-in ones.

How can I make Crock Pot Chicken Thighs spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mixture for an extra kick!

What sides go well with Crock Pot Chicken Thighs?

These flavorful chicken thighs pair beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure your crock pot has enough capacity to accommodate all the ingredients without overcrowding.

Final Thoughts

These Crock Pot Chicken Thighs are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, making them perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely dinners. Feel free to customize the flavors by experimenting with different spices or sauces. Give this delicious recipe a try—you won’t regret it!