Slow cooker chicken thighs have a special way of turning simple ingredients into deeply satisfying meals that warm both body and soul. With their tender, juicy texture and rich flavor, chicken thighs are perfect for slow cooking—letting the flavors meld beautifully over hours while you go about your day. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend, these recipes offer the ultimate comfort in a bowl, bringing a sense of home-cooked goodness with every spoonful.
From hearty stews and creamy sauces to vibrant spices and fresh herbs, this collection of 14 slow cooker chicken thigh recipes showcases a variety of comforting dishes that are as easy to prepare as they are delicious. You’ll find options that highlight classic favorites like garlic and lemon, as well as exciting international flavors that transform your slow cooker into a ticket to a world of taste. Each recipe is crafted to make your life simpler without sacrificing that homemade feeling we all crave.
Beyond the recipes themselves, you’ll also discover handy tips on seasoning, cooking times, and pairing ideas to elevate your meal to the next level. These bowls of comfort are perfect for those evenings when you want something nourishing and effortless—because the best comfort food is the kind that’s ready when you are.
Get ready to fill your home with irresistible aromas and enjoy dinners that feel like a warm hug from the inside out. These slow cooker chicken thigh recipes are about to become your new favorite way to unwind and nourish.
Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs
Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs are the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The sticky honey glaze, combined with the soy sauce, makes for a deliciously rich sauce that seeps into the tender chicken thighs, infusing every bite with mouthwatering goodness. This dish is not only tasty but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
With a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Pair it with some steamed rice and veggies, and you’ve got a complete comfort meal that everyone will love. Let’s get started on the recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them in the slow cooker and add the carrots around them.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the honey soy glaze over the chicken and carrots, making sure they are well coated.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot with rice or your favorite grain.
Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs
Coconut curry chicken thighs are a delightful blend of rich flavors and comforting textures. This dish features tender chicken thighs simmered in a creamy coconut curry sauce, making it a wonderful option for a cozy meal. The combination of spices and creamy coconut milk creates a mildly sweet and aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with rice.
Not only is this recipe incredibly tasty, but it’s also straightforward to prepare. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, let it do the work, and enjoy a bowl of warmth and comfort at the end of the day!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, red curry paste, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Combine in Slow Cooker: Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the coconut curry sauce over the top. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Shred the chicken and stir it back into the sauce. Serve the coconut curry chicken over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs
Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken with a rich, velvety sauce that’s bursting with flavor. This dish not only tastes amazing but is also super easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
The garlic infused cream sauce pairs beautifully with chicken thighs, ensuring they remain juicy and succulent as they cook slowly in the crockpot. Serve it over rice or with crusty bread to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Ingredients
- 4-6 chicken thighs, skinless and bone-in
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned, then transfer them to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy garlic chicken thighs over rice or with bread!
Mediterranean Chicken Thigh Stew
This Mediterranean Chicken Thigh Stew is a delightful mix of flavors, bringing together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. It’s a hearty dish that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for any day of the week. The stew is not only delicious but also simple to make, thanks to the slow cooker that does most of the work for you.
The combination of tomatoes, olives, and vibrant spices creates a comforting bowl full of taste that feels like a warm hug. It’s an easy way to enjoy a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying, and it pairs beautifully with crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful broth.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mixed olives, pitted
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
- Add Ingredients: Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, and add the cherry tomatoes, olives, bell pepper, onion, and garlic on top.
- Pour Broth: Pour the chicken broth over all the ingredients, ensuring everything is submerged.
- 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.
- Serve: Once done, garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.
Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs
Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs are the perfect dish for anyone craving a burst of fresh flavors. This recipe combines juicy chicken thighs with the bright taste of lemon and fragrant herbs, creating a comforting meal that’s simple to prepare. You’ll love how the combination of herbs melds with the citrus, infusing the chicken with a refreshing zest.
Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. You can throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the magic while you go about your day. Each bite is tender and full of flavor, making this a go-to recipe for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 4-6 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 2 lemons, juiced and zested
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the lemon juice, zest, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the lemon herb mixture over the top. Add the chicken broth to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Once done, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad!
Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs are a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that make for a comforting meal. The chicken thighs tenderize beautifully in the slow cooker, absorbing all the delicious honey mustard goodness. It’s an easy recipe that requires minimal prep time, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
This dish brings warmth and satisfaction to the table with its succulent chicken and vibrant vegetables. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, leaving you with less cleanup! Serve it over rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (like carrots, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the honey mustard mixture over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Add the mixed vegetables around the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your comforting bowl of honey mustard chicken!
Chicken Thighs in Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Chicken thighs in creamy mushroom sauce are a cozy dish that warms you from the inside out. The tender chicken, paired with a rich and savory sauce, brings comfort to any meal. Best of all, this recipe is super easy to make—just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do its magic!
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it over mashed potatoes or rice to soak up all that creamy goodness, making it a complete meal that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients
- 4-6 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper.
- Add the sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, and minced garlic over the chicken.
- In a bowl, mix together the chicken broth, heavy cream, soy sauce, and dried thyme. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the sauce and stir to combine. Serve warm over mashed potatoes or rice.
Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs
Spicy BBQ chicken thighs are a fantastic choice for anyone craving a burst of flavor and comfort in a meal. With juicy, tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, this dish carries just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting. Plus, it’s super easy to throw together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.
The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on other tasks. Serve these spicy BBQ chicken thighs over a bed of rice or with your favorite sides, and you’re set for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika on both sides.
- Mix Sauce: In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce and hot sauce. Stir until well mixed.
- Slow Cook: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the chicken over rice, drizzling extra sauce from the slow cooker on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
Get ready for a crowd-pleaser with these Teriyaki Chicken Thighs! This dish combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with a sweet and savory sauce that’s simple to whip up. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
This recipe is not just quick to prepare; it’s packed with flavor that brings the taste of Asian cuisine right to your dinner table. Serve it over rice or noodles, and add your favorite vegetables for a complete meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs, skinless
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
- Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
- Add the sliced bell pepper and broccoli on top. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Before serving, sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve the chicken and vegetables over rice or noodles. Enjoy your delicious Teriyaki Chicken Thighs!
Southwestern Chicken Thigh Chili
This Southwestern Chicken Thigh Chili is a cozy bowl of flavor that perfectly balances warmth and spice. The chicken thighs become tender as they cook slowly, absorbing the zesty elements of the chili, creating a hearty dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
It’s simple to make, requiring minimal prep time and letting the slow cooker do most of the work. Just toss in the ingredients, set the timer, and let the deliciousness unfold!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 avocado, sliced (for topping)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend, for topping)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
- Add the Vegetables: Layer the chopped onion, minced garlic, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes over the chicken.
- Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken broth, ensuring everything is well covered.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the chili.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with avocado slices, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro before enjoying!
Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Artichokes
This recipe for chicken thighs with lemon and artichokes is a delightful dish that brings a burst of bright flavors to your dinner table. The combination of tender chicken, zesty lemon, and savory artichokes makes it a perfect comfort meal that’s also simple to prepare.
Cooking chicken thighs in a slow cooker allows the flavors to mingle beautifully, creating a dish that feels cozy and satisfying. It’s a straightforward recipe, requiring minimal prep and letting the slow cooker do all the work. Your family will love the tangy taste, and you’ll appreciate how easy it is to whip up!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and halved
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and oregano. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the chicken on both sides for about 4-5 minutes. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add the Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the artichoke hearts, lemon slices, garlic, chicken broth, and black olives on top of the chicken.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the chicken thighs with the artichokes and a spoonful of the broth over rice or pasta for a complete meal.
Italian Chicken Thighs with Peppers
Italian Chicken Thighs with Peppers is a delightful dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for comfort food. The juicy chicken thighs are slow-cooked until tender, soaking up a rich blend of Italian spices and the sweetness of bell peppers. This recipe not only bursts with flavor but is also simple to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
The combination of tender chicken and vibrant peppers in a savory sauce creates a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Serve it over rice or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and you’ll have a family favorite in no time!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 red bell peppers, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then brown them in the skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
- In your slow cooker, combine sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Place the browned chicken thighs on top.
- Sprinkle oregano and basil over the chicken, and pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, over rice or with bread.
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs
Balsamic glazed chicken thighs are a delightful dish that combines the rich, savory flavor of chicken with the tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar. This recipe is simple to make and perfect for a cozy dinner, offering a satisfying taste that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
The chicken thighs become incredibly tender as they cook slowly, allowing the glaze to infuse every bite. Paired with colorful vegetables and served over rice or noodles, this dish is a showstopper that anyone can whip up on a busy weeknight!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup mixed bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 2 cups cooked rice or noodles
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, soy sauce, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a slow cooker and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge for more flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Add the diced bell peppers and sliced carrots on top of the chicken 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 cooked through.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the chicken and vegetables over rice or noodles, drizzling extra glaze on top for added flavor.
Sweet and Sour Chicken Thighs
Sweet and Sour Chicken Thighs bring a delightful twist to your dinner table. The combination of tender chicken thighs with a tangy, sweet sauce creates a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting. It’s simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
This recipe is perfect for those who love a balance of flavors. The juicy chicken absorbs the sauce beautifully, while colorful bell peppers add a nice crunch. You’ll love how effortless it is to prepare, just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color)
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Stir until well combined.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Add chopped bell peppers and pineapple chunks. Pour the sauce over the top, making sure everything is covered.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked.
- Serve: Once done, remove the chicken, shred it if desired, and mix it back into the sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, these 14 slow cooker chicken thigh recipes prove that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Each dish delivers that cozy, satisfying feeling we all look for in a meal, with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Dive in, savor the goodness, and let these recipes bring warmth and ease to your table.