Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

I firmly believe the best slow cooker recipes are the ones that require very little effort, which is exactly why these slow cooker chicken thighs are such a keeper. The chicken turns out wonderfully tender and juicy, and it cooks right on top of baby potatoes and carrots, so by dinnertime you’ve got a hearty, comforting meal waiting for you.

The most hands-on part of the recipe is searing the chicken thighs before adding them to the slow cooker. It only takes a few minutes, but that golden skin adds so much flavor. As the chicken cooks, the broth, butter, garlic, thyme, and shallots create the most delicious savory sauce. You can spoon it right over everything, or stir in a little cornstarch at the end if you want it thicker and more gravy-like. Either way, this is the kind of cozy, no-fuss dinner that makes everyone at the table happy. Serve it as a one-pot dish or add some fresh bread to sop up all that delicious sauce!

If you love this dish, here are more chicken thigh recipes to try next!

Can you use boneless chicken thighs in this slow cooker recipe?

You can, but bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are the best choice for this recipe. The bones help keep the meat extra juicy and flavorful as it cooks, while the skin adds richness to the sauce. Chicken thighs are also more forgiving than leaner cuts, so they stay tender even after hours in the slow cooker. If you'd like to use boneless thighs instead, they'll still be delicious—just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a little faster.

How long can you keep chicken thighs warm in a slow cooker?

Once the chicken thighs are fully cooked, you can keep them on the warm setting for up to three hours. Holding them any longer than that can cause the meat to break down and become too soft, so it’s best to serve or refrigerate them within that window.

Is it better to cook chicken thighs on low or high in a slow cooker?

If you have the time, cook the thighs on low. Cooking them on high works fine, but cooking them on low results in the juiciest, most tender chicken thighs possible.

How long do leftover chicken thighs last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, the chicken thighs and veggies will stay good for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or at 350 degrees Fahrenheit in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until warmed through.