Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece, where tender, juicy chicken thighs dance with sweet, caramelized apples and aromatic spices. This Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Apples recipe is your ticket to an effortless, flavor-packed meal that will have your family begging for seconds. With just minutes of prep time and the magic of slow cooking, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Rinse the chicken thighs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture, allowing for better browning and flavor absorption.
- Next, slice the apples into thin wedges and chop the onion into small pieces. Set both aside for later use.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a little oil (optional) and sear the chicken thighs for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the chicken. Once browned, transfer the chicken thighs to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. This will add depth to the dish. Transfer the sautéed onions to the slow cooker, spreading them evenly over the chicken thighs.
- Now, layer the sliced apples on top of the chicken and onions in the slow cooker. The apples will add a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory chicken.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken, apples, and onions in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is well-coated.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 6 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the chicken to become tender.
- After 6 hours, check the chicken for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If it’s done, carefully remove the chicken thighs and apples from the slow cooker.
- Serve the chicken thighs warm, garnished with the apples and onions. You can also spoon some of the broth over the top for added flavor. This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad.
- Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Apples!
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before searing to achieve a beautiful golden-brown exterior that locks in flavor.
- Don't skip the searing step! Browning the chicken first adds depth and richness to the final dish.
- Use fresh, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best balance of sweetness and texture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider or white wine to the broth mixture.
- Check the chicken's internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe and perfectly cooked meat.
- If the sauce seems too thin after cooking, you can thicken it by mixing a little cornstarch with cold water and stirring it in.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 10g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 30mg
