When it comes to cooking with chicken thighs, the slow cooker is an incredibly versatile and convenient tool. Not only does it allow for hands-off cooking, but it also tenderizes the meat to perfection, making it fall-off-the-bone delicious. In this article, we’ll explore the many possibilities of what to make with chicken thighs in a slow cooker, from classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes.
The Benefits of Using Chicken Thighs in a Slow Cooker
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why chicken thighs are an ideal choice for slow cooker meals. Here are a few benefits:
- Affordability: Chicken thighs are generally less expensive than chicken breasts, making them a budget-friendly option for slow cooker meals.
- Moisture content: Chicken thighs have a higher moisture content than chicken breasts, which makes them perfect for slow cooking. They’ll stay juicy and tender, even after hours of cooking.
- Flavor: Chicken thighs have a richer, more intense flavor than chicken breasts, which makes them ideal for slow cooker meals where flavors meld together.
Classic Comfort Food Recipes
When it comes to slow cooker chicken thighs, classic comfort food recipes are a great place to start. Here are a few ideas:
Chicken Tacos
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet of taco seasoning
- 6 tacos shells
- Shredded cheese, lettuce, and any other taco toppings you like
Place the chicken thighs, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Shred the chicken with two forks and serve with tacos shells, cheese, lettuce, and any other toppings you like.
Chicken and Dumplings
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 cups biscuit or dumpling mix
Place the chicken thighs, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and frozen vegetables in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, add the biscuit or dumpling mix to the slow cooker. Cook until the dumplings are cooked through and the mixture has thickened.
International-Inspired Recipes
If you’re looking to spice up your slow cooker game, try one of these international-inspired recipes:
Korean BBQ Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Place the chicken thighs, soy sauce, honey, Gochujang, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic powder in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with steamed rice or noodles.
Indian-Style Chicken Curry
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Place the chicken thighs, coconut milk, diced tomatoes, curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with steamed basmati rice or naan bread.
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Vegetables
If you’re looking for a healthy and hearty slow cooker meal, try adding some vegetables to your chicken thighs. Here are a few ideas:
Chicken and Vegetable Stew
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and green beans)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Place the chicken thighs, mixed vegetables, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Chicken Fajitas
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup sliced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet of fajita seasoning
- 6 small flour tortillas
- Shredded cheese, sour cream, and any other fajita toppings you like
Place the chicken thighs, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and fajita seasoning in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Serve with flour tortillas, shredded cheese, sour cream, and any other fajita toppings you like.
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Gravy
If you’re looking for a comforting slow cooker meal with a rich and creamy gravy, try one of these recipes:
Chicken and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Place the chicken thighs, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and flour in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Serve over mashed potatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Chicken and Gravy over Egg Noodles
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
Place the chicken thighs, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and flour in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Serve over egg noodles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Conclusion
As you can see, the possibilities are endless when it comes to slow cooker chicken thighs. From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or a weekend meal prep enthusiast, slow cooker chicken thighs are a great way to cook a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal effort. So next time you’re planning a meal, consider giving slow cooker chicken thighs a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
What are the benefits of using a slow cooker for chicken thighs?
Using a slow cooker for chicken thighs offers several benefits. One of the main advantages is that it allows for tender and juicy meat, even when using tougher cuts. The low heat and moisture-rich environment of the slow cooker break down the connective tissues in the meat, resulting in a tender and fall-apart texture.
Another benefit of using a slow cooker for chicken thighs is the convenience it offers. Simply place the chicken and your desired seasonings in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. This makes it an ideal option for busy days when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Additionally, slow cookers are great for meal prep, as you can cook a large batch of chicken and use it throughout the week in various dishes.
How do I prevent my chicken thighs from drying out in the slow cooker?
To prevent your chicken thighs from drying out in the slow cooker, it’s essential to use enough liquid. You can use chicken broth, stock, or even water, depending on the recipe you’re using. The liquid helps to keep the meat moist and adds flavor to the dish. You can also add some fat, such as butter or oil, to the slow cooker to help keep the chicken thighs moist.
Another way to prevent dry chicken thighs is to cook them on low heat for a longer period. Cooking on high heat can cause the meat to dry out quickly, so it’s best to cook it on low for 6-8 hours. You can also check the chicken thighs periodically to ensure they’re not overcooking. If you notice they’re starting to dry out, you can cover the slow cooker with a lid or add more liquid to prevent further drying.
Can I cook frozen chicken thighs in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken thighs in the slow cooker. However, it’s essential to note that the cooking time will be longer than if you were using fresh chicken. It’s recommended to add an extra 2-3 hours to the cooking time to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
When cooking frozen chicken thighs, it’s also crucial to ensure they’re cooked to a safe internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should be at least 165°F (74°C). Additionally, make sure to handle the frozen chicken safely to prevent cross-contamination.
How do I add flavor to my slow cooker chicken thighs?
There are several ways to add flavor to your slow cooker chicken thighs. One of the easiest ways is to use a marinade or seasoning blend. You can mix together your favorite herbs and spices and rub them onto the chicken thighs before placing them in the slow cooker. You can also add aromatics, such as onions, garlic, and ginger, to the slow cooker for added flavor.
Another way to add flavor is to use a sauce or gravy. You can make your own sauce using ingredients like soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar, or use a store-bought option. Simply pour the sauce over the chicken thighs and cook on low for 6-8 hours. You can also add some acidity, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to help balance the flavors.
Can I cook other ingredients with my chicken thighs in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook other ingredients with your chicken thighs in the slow cooker. In fact, one of the benefits of using a slow cooker is that you can cook a complete meal in one pot. You can add vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers, to the slow cooker along with the chicken thighs.
You can also add grains, such as rice or quinoa, to the slow cooker for a complete meal. Simply add the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. You can also add some canned goods, such as diced tomatoes or beans, to add flavor and texture to the dish.
How do I store and reheat slow cooker chicken thighs?
Once cooked, you can store slow cooker chicken thighs in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. To store, simply place the cooked chicken thighs in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze.
To reheat, you can place the chicken thighs in the microwave or oven. Simply heat them until warmed through, and serve. You can also reheat them in the slow cooker by adding some liquid and cooking on low for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This is a great way to reheat the chicken thighs without drying them out.
Can I make slow cooker chicken thighs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make slow cooker chicken thighs ahead of time. In fact, one of the benefits of using a slow cooker is that you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook them later. You can prepare the chicken thighs and seasonings the night before and place them in the slow cooker in the morning.
You can also cook the chicken thighs ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them for later use. This is a great way to meal prep and have a convenient protein source on hand. Simply reheat the chicken thighs when you’re ready to use them, and serve.