Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's as effortless as it is delicious? Look no further than this Easy Slow Cooked Chicken recipe! With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will have your family begging for seconds. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs infused with the rich flavors of garlic, thyme, and savory broth, all while you go about your day. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, and trust us—once you try it, you'll want to make it again and again!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables by finely chopping the onion, peeling and slicing the carrots, and mincing the garlic cloves.
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and dried thyme on both sides, ensuring even coverage.
- Lightly grease the slow cooker insert with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the chopped onions and sliced carrots at the bottom of the slow cooker, creating an even base layer.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetable layer, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic over the chicken and vegetables for added flavor.
- Pour the chicken broth carefully around the chicken, avoiding washing off the seasoning.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to low heat for 6 hours.
- After 6 hours, check the chicken's internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Carefully remove the chicken thighs and vegetables, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Optional: For crispy skin, briefly broil the chicken in the oven for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables the night before and store them in the fridge. This way, you can simply toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt, pepper, and thyme! A good seasoning will enhance the flavors of the chicken and vegetables, making every bite irresistible.
- Layering Matters: Always place the vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all the delicious juices from the chicken.
- Avoid Overlapping: When arranging the chicken thighs, make sure they are not overlapping. This allows for even cooking and ensures every piece gets that perfect tender texture.
- Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Crispy Skin Option: If you love crispy skin, pop the cooked chicken under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after slow cooking. This gives you that delightful crunch without sacrificing tenderness!
- Serve with Sides: Pair this dish with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to complete your meal and soak up all the delicious broth!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 7g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 23mg
