Best Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for an easy and delicious dinner recipe, slow cooker chicken thighs can be a great choice. Slow cooking chicken thighs make them tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. However, before you start cooking, there are some factors you need to consider to ensure that you get the best slow cooked chicken thighs, from the cut of the meat to the seasoning and cooking time.
The first factor to consider is the type of chicken thighs you want to use. Bone-in or boneless? Skin on or skinless? These choices will affect the cooking time and the final taste of the dish. You should also consider the seasonings – it’s best to use a mix of spices, herbs, and liquids to marinate the chicken for a few hours before cooking. Another factor is the size of your slow cooker. Make sure to choose the right size to avoid overcrowding or overheating.
Do you want your slow cooker chicken thighs to be sweet, savory, spicy, or tangy? Would you like to pair them with rice, vegetables, or pasta? These are all questions you can ask yourself when planning your next meal. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use olive oil instead of butter or cream. And if you’re pressed for time, consider using a pressure cooker instead – it will save you a lot of time without sacrificing flavor.
Are you ready to try a new recipe? Do you want to impress your family and friends with your cooking skills? Stay tuned for some delicious slow cooker chicken thigh recipes that will make your mouth water.
10 Best Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
The product is ideal for slow cooking meals and soups, with a 6-quart capacity and a standard lid.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
Ideal for slow cooking meals with flexible easy programming, 5 cooking times, and a dishwasher-safe crock and lid.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
It is ideal for creating delicious slow-cooked chicken meals.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
Ideal for slow cooking large quantities of food, with easy transport and dishwasher-safe crock.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
Ideal for slow cooking meals with ease, precision, and versatility with a nonstick 6.5 quart capacity, programmability, and dishwasher safety.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
This product is ideal for cooking a variety of meals quickly and easily with its multiple functions, including pressure cooking and slow cooking.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
Ideal for enhancing flavor of meats, poultry and vegetables with garlic, herb, and wine infusion.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
This product is ideal for individuals or businesses who want to purchase boneless, skinless chicken thighs in bulk.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
The product is ideal for slow cooking meals in a large capacity oval shaped pot made of stainless steel.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
Ideal for cooking meals on-the-go with a locking lid and dishwasher-safe features.
|
|
1. Flexicook Slow Cooker – 7qt Silver Hamilton Beach
Introducing the 7 Quart Slow Cooker, the perfect addition to any kitchen for family dinners, potlucks, or parties. With a 7 quart capacity, this slow cooker is sized to fit a 7 lb. chicken or 5 lb. roast, making it easy to prepare meals for larger groups.
This slow cooker offers flexible programming options, providing more programming options than the Crock-Pot Smart-Pot* slow cooker. Mix and match time and temperature with the option to choose from high, low, or warm for either 2, 4, 6, 8, or 10 hours.
With this slow cooker, there's no need to constantly watch or stir your food. Once the cooking time is up, it automatically shifts to warm, ensuring your meal stays at the perfect temperature until you're ready to serve.
Cleaning up after meals is a breeze thanks to the removable stoneware crock and glass lid, both of which are dishwasher safe.
Please note that Crock-Pot and Smart-Pot are registered trademarks of Sunbeam products. However, the use of these trademarks does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by Sunbeam products.
Invest in the 7 Quart Slow Cooker today and enjoy the convenience and ease of preparing delicious meals for your family and friends.
2. Mccormick Slow Cookers Fiesta Chicken Seasoning Mix, 1.5 Oz (Pack Of 12)
This product contains 1.5 ounces of ingredients and is packaged in the United States. It has the capacity to make 8 servings and requires a preparation time of 10 minutes and a cook time of 4 hours. The package includes all necessary information to ensure a successful cooking experience.
3. Portable Programmable Slow Cooker For Easy Travel
Introducing the versatile and reliable Hamilton Beach Programmable Slow Cooker – the perfect addition to any kitchen. With a large 7 quart pot, it can comfortably fit a 7lb chicken or 5lb roast, making it perfect for families or entertaining guests.
Cleanup is a breeze with this slow cooker. After cooking, simply place the stoneware crock and lid in the dishwasher for easy cleaning. The touch pad is also easy to clean with a simple wipe down.
For added convenience, the slow cooker features a lid latch strap that makes it easy to travel with. Simply stretch the strap from underneath one handle of the slow cooker to the other or cross it at the middle for extra security.
Customize your cooking preferences for each meal with the mix and match settings. The programmable slow cooker allows you to choose any combination of time and temperature for a personalized cooking experience.
You can trust the Hamilton Beach Programmable Slow Cooker to handle your cooking needs without constant monitoring. It will automatically switch to the keep warm setting when cooking time is complete, so there's no need for constant watching.
Made with high-quality stoneware, this slow cooker is durable and built to last. The stoneware crock and lid are also dishwasher-safe, making it easy to clean up after a delicious meal.
Invest in the Hamilton Beach Programmable Slow Cooker for an appliance that is both reliable and convenient. Its stoneware material ensures durability, while its customizable settings, automatic switch to keep warm, and easy-to-clean features make it a must-have for any kitchen.
4. All-Clad Ceramic Slow Cooker: Program, Cook, Relax.
The 6.5-quart, oval-shaped, stainless-steel slow cooker is a must-have for anyone who loves home-cooked meals but has a busy schedule. With a removable black ceramic insert, this slow cooker is large enough to cook food for a crowd and goes right to the table for serving.
With 4-20 hours cooking times and a complete cycle time of up to 26 hours, this slow cooker is perfect for preparing meals on any schedule. The easy to read digital display and large push-button controls make it intuitive to use, allowing you to easily find your perfect programs.
The integrated handles on the insert provide an easy grip, and the glass lid traps in heat and moisture, ensuring that your food stays warm and delicious. The screen is an LCD, making it easy to read and use.
Cleaning up is a breeze with this slow cooker, as the insert and lid are both dishwasher-safe. For added convenience, the keep warm setting ensures that your food stays at the perfect temperature until you're ready to serve it. The slow cooking settings include a high mode (2 to 8 hours) and a low mode (4 to 20 hours), allowing you to choose the perfect cooking time for your meal.
It's important to note that the ceramic insert should not be used on the stove top or in an oven to prepare foods. Overall, this slow cooker is a great investment for anyone who wants to enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
5. 9-In-1 Electric Pressure Cooker With Free App
This multi-functional kitchen appliance is a must-have for anyone who loves to cook. With 9-in-1 functionality, it can be used as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, sauté pan, sterilizer, and food warmer. Whether you're cooking for yourself or for your family, this appliance has got you covered.
One of the standout features of this appliance is its improved stress-free venting. The easy-release steam switch makes releasing steam a breeze, and it automatically resets when the lid is closed. Plus, the easy-to-read display includes a full cooking progress bar that lets you know what stage of the cooking program you've reached, providing you with real-time feedback.
With 15 customizable smart programs, this appliance makes cooking a variety of meals quick and easy. Whether you're pressure cooking ribs, soups, beans, rice, poultry, yogurt, desserts, or something else entirely, there's a program for you. The versatile inner cooking pot is made of food-grade stainless steel with a tri-ply bottom that offers more even cooking and an anti-spin design that secures the pot for perfect sautéing.
This appliance can cook delicious one-pot meals up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods, or you can slow cook your favorite traditional recipes just like grandma used to make. Plus, with its fingerprint-resistant, stainless-steel sides and dishwasher-safe lid, inner pot, and accessories, cleanup is quick and easy.
Safety is a top priority with this appliance, which includes over 10 safety features, plus overheat protection and a safe-locking lid. This makes it a great option for families with children or anyone who wants to ensure their kitchen appliances are safe to use.
This appliance is perfect for growing families, as it can cook for up to 6 people. It's also great for meal prepping and batch cooking for singles. And with the free Instant Pot app, you can discover amazing recipes and create quick new favorites for yourself and your family. The app is available for download on iOS and Android devices.
6. Mccormick Grill Mates Garlic, Herb & Wine Marinade Mix, 0.87 Oz
Introducing the Mediterranean-inspired dry marinade mix, a delicious blend of garlic, savory herbs, and white wine that is sure to elevate your grilling game. This product is made with McCormick spices and herbs, ensuring you get the best quality ingredients in every packet.
As America's number one grilling seasoning, this marinade mix is perfect for adding bold flavors to chicken, pork, or seafood. Its dry nature makes it easy to use and store, and with a weight of 0.87 oz per packet, you'll have enough for multiple meals.
Preparing your meats with this marinade mix is easy. Simply combine one packet with ¼ cup of water and oil, 1 tbsp vinegar, and 2 lbs of your preferred protein. Let the mixture marinate for a while, and then let your grill work its magic.
7. Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (Scv700-S-Br)
This 7 quart manual slow cooker is the perfect addition to any kitchen, capable of serving 9 or more people or fitting a 7 pound roast with ease. With the ability to set the cooking time to high, dinner can be ready in no time. Alternatively, set it on low and let it cook while you're at work for a delicious, hot meal upon your return.
The auto cut off feature ensures that the slow cooker switches to the warm setting, keeping your food at an ideal serving temperature for as long as you need. One pot cooking means less dishes to clean, and the lid and removable stoneware are dishwasher safe for added convenience.
This slow cooker's oval stoneware is removable, allowing for easy cleaning and even safe use in the microwave or oven up to 400°F. Please refer to your owner's manual for specific crockery cooking medium tolerances if you own another brand of slow cooker. It is recommended to avoid using abrasive cleaning compounds or scouring pads.
Invest in this spacious and versatile slow cooker for a hassle-free and delicious cooking experience.
8. Lock & Load Slow Cooker – Hamilton Beach
The 6-quart slow cooker is designed to make transporting hot food to potlucks, parties, or any gathering a breeze. With a clip-tight sealed lid, it helps to prevent messy spills, ensuring the food stays safe and secure throughout the journey. The lid locks tightly onto the slow cooker, so you can confidently carry it without worrying about any accidents.
The removable stoneware and glass lid make cleaning up a breeze. Simply place them in the dishwasher, and you're good to go. This feature saves time and energy, so you can focus on enjoying the delicious meal you just cooked.
The slow cooker features full-grip handles that make carrying it even more manageable. Whether you're taking it to a potluck or just moving it around the kitchen, the handles provide a firm and comfortable grip.
This slow cooker offers three temperature settings: high, low, and keep warm. You can choose the right temperature for your dish, ensuring it stays perfectly cooked and ready to serve whenever you need it. The keep warm setting ensures that your food stays at the right temperature until you're ready to serve it.
Best Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs FAQs
Can you cook frozen chicken thighs in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken thighs in a slow cooker. In fact, slow cooking is one of the best ways to cook frozen chicken thighs because it allows the meat to cook through evenly and retain its moisture.
To cook frozen chicken thighs in a slow cooker, you will need to add them to the slow cooker along with your desired seasonings and a liquid such as broth or water. It's important to note that frozen chicken will release a lot of moisture as it cooks, so you don't need to add too much liquid to the slow cooker.
Cook the chicken on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. It's important to check the internal temperature of the chicken before consuming it to ensure it has reached a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once the chicken has finished cooking, you can shred it and use it in a variety of dishes such as tacos, salads, or soups. Cooking frozen chicken thighs in a slow cooker is a convenient and easy way to have a delicious meal ready when you come home from work or a busy day.
Can you use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs in a slow cooker recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs in a slow cooker recipe. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts are leaner than chicken thighs, so they may dry out faster if overcooked. To prevent this, it's important to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
If the recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken thighs, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts at a 1:1 ratio. If the recipe calls for bone-in chicken thighs, it's best to use bone-in chicken breasts to ensure that the meat stays moist and flavorful.
To ensure that the chicken breasts cook evenly, it's important to trim them of any excess fat and place them in a single layer in the slow cooker. You can also add some liquid, such as broth, wine, or water, to the slow cooker to keep the chicken moist.
Overall, using chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs in a slow cooker recipe is a great option if you prefer white meat or if that's what you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly to ensure that the chicken stays moist and flavorful.
How do you make slow cooker chicken thighs with a crispy skin?
Slow cooker chicken thighs can be a delicious and easy meal, but getting a crispy skin can be a bit tricky. Here's how to do it:
1. Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This will remove any excess moisture, which can prevent the skin from crisping up.
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil (such as vegetable or canola oil) and wait until it's hot.
4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
5. Transfer the chicken thighs to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
By searing the chicken thighs before adding them to the slow cooker, you'll get a crispy skin and delicious flavor.
How do you prevent slow cooker chicken thighs from drying out?
Slow cooker chicken thighs can be a delicious and easy meal, but there is a risk of them becoming dry and tough if not cooked properly. To prevent this, there are a few things you can do.
Firstly, make sure to use enough liquid in the slow cooker. This could be water, chicken broth, or a combination of both. The chicken should be submerged in the liquid to keep it moist.
Secondly, you can add some fat to the dish. This could be in the form of butter, oil, or even bacon. The fat will help to keep the chicken moist and add flavor.
Thirdly, avoid overcooking the chicken. Chicken thighs generally only need to be cooked for 4-6 hours on low heat. If you cook them for too long, they will become dry and tough.
Lastly, consider adding some vegetables to the dish. Vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery will release moisture as they cook, which will help to keep the chicken moist.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your slow cooker chicken thighs turn out moist, tender, and delicious.
How long should chicken thighs cook in a slow cooker?
Chicken thighs are a popular and versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including in a slow cooker. Cooking chicken thighs in a slow cooker is a great way to achieve tender, juicy meat that is full of flavor. The cooking time for chicken thighs in a slow cooker can vary depending on the recipe and the size of the thighs, but generally, they should be cooked on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It is important to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches a minimum of 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it is fully cooked and safe to eat. To add extra flavor to your chicken thighs, consider seasoning them with herbs and spices, or adding vegetables and other ingredients to the slow cooker. With a little experimentation, you can create delicious and healthy meals with chicken thighs in your slow cooker.
Should you use boneless or bone-in chicken thighs in a slow cooker?
When it comes to using chicken thighs in a slow cooker, the choice between boneless or bone-in ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages.
Boneless chicken thighs are easier to prepare and eat since you don't have to deal with the bones. They also cook faster than bone-in thighs, which is great if you're short on time. However, they can be less flavorful since the bones contribute to the overall taste of the dish.
On the other hand, bone-in chicken thighs are more flavorful and tender due to the bones and connective tissues. They also hold up better in the slow cooker and won't dry out as easily. However, they can be a bit more difficult to prepare and eat since you have to remove the bones before serving.
In the end, it really comes down to what you prefer. If you want convenience and speed, go for boneless chicken thighs. If you want maximum flavor and texture, go for bone-in chicken thighs.
What are some of the best slow cooker chicken thigh recipes?
Slow cooker chicken thigh recipes are a great way to make a delicious and easy meal that requires minimal effort. Here are some of the best recipes to try:
1. Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Creamy Lemon Sauce: This recipe involves cooking chicken thighs in a creamy mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and chicken broth. It's a simple and flavorful dish that pairs well with rice or pasta.
2. Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: This recipe involves cooking chicken thighs in a sweet and savory sauce made with honey, garlic, soy sauce, and ketchup. It's a crowd-pleaser and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
3. Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings: This classic recipe involves cooking chicken thighs with vegetables like carrots and celery in a slow cooker, and then topping it off with homemade dumplings. It's comfort food at its finest.
4. Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with BBQ Sauce: This recipe involves cooking chicken thighs in a tangy BBQ sauce made with ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. It's perfect for a summer cookout or a casual dinner party.
5. Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Salsa: This recipe involves cooking chicken thighs with your favorite salsa and spices. It's a low-carb and flavorful dish that can be served with cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.
What are the best sides to serve with slow cooker chicken thighs?
When it comes to serving slow cooker chicken thighs, there are many delicious side dishes that can complement the rich, savory flavors of the chicken. Some great options include roasted or grilled vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. These veggies can be seasoned with garlic, lemon, or herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Another classic side dish for chicken thighs is rice or quinoa. These grains make a great base for the chicken and can be flavored with herbs, spices, or a bit of lemon juice. For a healthier option, try using brown rice or quinoa to add some fiber and nutrients to your meal.
If you're looking for something a bit more indulgent, mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser. These creamy sides pair perfectly with the rich flavors of the chicken and can be seasoned with butter, garlic, or herbs.
Finally, don't forget about salad! A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance out the richness of the chicken and add some freshness to your meal. Experiment with different combinations of greens, veggies, and dressings to find the perfect complement to your slow cooker chicken thighs.
What is the best way to season slow cooker chicken thighs?
When it comes to seasoning slow cooker chicken thighs, there are a variety of options to choose from depending on your taste preferences. One simple and delicious option is to mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika and sprinkle the mixture over the chicken thighs before placing them in the slow cooker. You can also add some dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the seasoning mix for an extra burst of flavor.
Another option is to marinate the chicken thighs in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and your choice of herbs and spices for a few hours before placing them in the slow cooker. This can help infuse the chicken with more flavor and create a more tender texture.
No matter what seasoning method you choose, be sure to add some liquid to the slow cooker to prevent the chicken from drying out. Chicken broth, tomato sauce, or even just a bit of water can do the trick. And don't forget to adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences as needed before serving.
What temperature should slow cooker chicken thighs be cooked to?
When cooking chicken thighs in a slow cooker, it is important to ensure that they are cooked to a safe temperature to avoid any risk of foodborne illnesses. The recommended internal temperature for chicken thighs is 165°F (74°C). This temperature ensures that any harmful bacteria present in the meat are destroyed, making it safe to eat.
To achieve this temperature, it is recommended to cook chicken thighs in a slow cooker on high heat for 3-4 hours or on low heat for 6-8 hours. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken thighs and the type of slow cooker being used. It is always best to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs before serving.
In summary, slow cooker chicken thighs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
