Description
Effortless, tender chicken thighs simmered in a crockpot. Packed with smoky-sweet flavor, a simple spice rub transforms ordinary chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
Instructions
1. Thoroughly dry chicken thighs with paper towels and place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Combine salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl and mix until uniform.
3. Add olive oil to the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle the prepared spice rub over all sides of the chicken thighs, ensuring an even coating.
4. Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 4 to 5 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp.
5. Pour chicken broth and chopped garlic into the base of the slow cooker.
6. Arrange the seared chicken thighs skin-side up in the slow cooker atop the broth and garlic.
7. Cover and cook on low for 5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 185°F.
8. Carefully remove chicken thighs and serve with desired side dishes.
Notes
For extra crisp skin, broil chicken thighs for several minutes after cooking and monitor closely to prevent over-browning.
Add vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or onions to the slow cooker for a convenient all-in-one meal.
Increase red pepper flakes or include cayenne pepper for bolder heat.
For a saucier dish, include a can of diced tomatoes or a splash of barbecue sauce in the slow cooker.
If using boneless, skinless chicken thighs, reduce cooking time to 3–4 hours on low heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 110mg