Fall-off-the-bone chicken thighs in a rich, savory sauce—slow-cooked perfection!
Servings: 6
There’s nothing better than coming home to a house filled with the aroma of a slow-cooked dinner. These Pioneer Woman-inspired slow cooker chicken thighs are comfort food at its finest. Packed with rich flavors and so tender they practically melt in your mouth, this dish is perfect for busy days or when you just need a no-fuss dinner. Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of that delicious sauce! Or serve with roasted vegetables for the perfect keto-friendly meal!
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme (or 1 sprig fresh thyme)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Supplies Needed
- Large skillet
- Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown, about 4–5 minutes. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.
Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to coat. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and let thicken slightly.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, heavy cream, and thyme. Remove from heat and pour the sauce over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze chicken and sauce in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- For extra flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs, as they add depth to the sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Add vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or potatoes directly to the slow cooker for a complete one-pot meal.
Variations
- Spicy Option: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a kick.
- Herb Swap: Replace thyme with rosemary or sage for a different flavor profile.
- Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free option.
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes! Boneless thighs will work, but reduce the cooking time by 30–45 minutes to prevent overcooking.
What sides go well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables are all excellent choices.
Can I skip searing the chicken?
You can, but searing adds a lot of flavor and helps the chicken hold its shape during slow cooking.
These Pioneer Woman-inspired slow cooker chicken thighs are the ultimate comfort food. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Once you try it, you’ll want it on repeat all year long!
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