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Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

overhead shot of cooked bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs in a black slow cooker garnished with fresh parsley

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5 from 5 reviews

Slow cooker chicken thighs are great for busy nights when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal without the hassle. Making chicken thighs in the crockpot means succulent chicken thighs without the fuss. Grab your preferred cut of thighs whether it be bone-in, boneless, skin-on or skinless. Using just a few simple seasonings, the end result is low-carb, paleo, and Whole30 compatible chicken at your disposal. Pair the chicken with your favorite side dishes or re-use the tender meat in another recipe. Instructions to make easy chicken thighs in the Instant Pot are also included.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 3 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in, boneless, skin-on, or skinless)
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon oil (for Instant Pot only)
  • 1 cup water (for Instant Pot only)

Instructions

Slow Cooker

  1. Add the chicken to the slow cooker. Add all the seasonings. Toss until the chicken is coated. Or mix the seasonings together and sprinkle them on top of the food in the slow cooker.
  2. Cook HIGH 3-4 hours or LOW 6-8.

Instant Pot

  1. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and pepper. Toss the seasonings mix with the chicken, ensuring all the pieces are evenly coated.
  2. If using skin-on chicken: Turn on the Instant Pot and select sauté. Once hot, add the oil to the pot. Add the seasoned chicken, skin side down. Cook approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side or until the skin is crisp to your liking. Remove the chicken and set aside. If using skinless chicken, skip this step.
  3. Pour 1 cup water into the pot and deglaze the bottom of the pressure cooker by scraping all the bits off with a wooden spoon.
  4. Place the trivet inside and add chicken thighs on top.
  5. Close & seal vent. Select high pressure and set time for 8 minutes for boneless thighs or 10 mines for bone-in. When cooking time is complete, quick-release the pressure.

Notes

You do not need to add any liquid to the slow cooker.

Nutrition

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