Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Introduction

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Crock Pot Herbed Lemon Chicken Thighs, a recipe designed for busy families seeking a wholesome meal without the fuss. This dish harmoniously combines the richness of chicken thighs with fragrant herbs and a refreshing touch of lemon, resulting in an aromatic experience that will fill your kitchen with comforting scents. With minimal prep time and effortless cooking, this recipe allows you to focus on what truly matters – enjoying dinner with your loved ones.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

1 kg bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

10 ml olive oil

5 g salt

3 g black pepper

5 g garlic powder

5 g onion powder

3 g dried thyme leaves

3 g dried oregano

30 ml lemon juice

1 lemon, sliced

100 ml chicken broth

30 g butter

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 5 hours

Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Directions:

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and season all over with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano.

2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs, skin side down, until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Flip and brown the other side for another 3 minutes.

3. Place the seared chicken thighs in the Crock Pot.

4. Pour lemon juice and chicken broth over the chicken thighs.

5. Place lemon slices on top of the chicken.

6. Dot the chicken with butter for added richness.

7. Cover and cook on low heat for 5-6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

8. Serve with your choice of sides and enjoy the flavorsome meal.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season all sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried oregano.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 10 ml of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs in the pan skin side down and sear for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip the chicken and brown the other side for an additional 3 minutes.

Step 3: Transfer to Crock Pot

Once seared, place the chicken thighs into the Crock Pot.

Step 4: Add Liquid Ingredients

Pour 30 ml of lemon juice and 100 ml of chicken broth over the chicken thighs in the Crock Pot.

Step 5: Add Lemon Slices

Layer lemon slices on top of the chicken for added flavor.

Step 6: Add Butter

Dot the chicken thighs with 30 g of butter to enhance the richness of the dish.

Step 7: Cook

Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low heat for 5-6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 8: Serve

Once the cooking time is complete, serve the herbed lemon chicken thighs with your choice of sides and enjoy the delightful meal.

Notes

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.

Prep Time

Preparation time is around 15 minutes.

Cook Time

The cooking time is 5 hours on low heat.

Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:

Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing:

To freeze, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, consume within a month for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating:

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Herbed Lemon Chicken Thighs alongside a variety of sides for a complete meal. Some great options include:

Complementary Sides:

Garlic mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier option, consider serving with rice pilaf or quinoa.

Garnish:

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Pairing with Beverages:

Enjoy this dish with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing lemonade.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approx. 200g) of Herbed Lemon Chicken Thighs:

Calories:

Approximately 400 kcal

Protein:

Around 30g

Fat:

About 29g (includes healthy fats from olive oil and butter)

Carbohydrates:

Less than 5g

Sodium:

Approximately 600mg

Cholesterol:

Around 150mg

*Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make substitutions, consider the following:

Chicken Thighs:

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a leaner option, but cooking time may be reduced slightly.

Olive Oil:

Substitute with avocado oil or canola oil for different flavor profiles.

Herbs:

If fresh herbs are available, use 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme and oregano instead of the dried versions.

Lemon Juice:

Fresh lemon juice can be used in place of bottled lemon juice for a brighter flavor.

Butter:

Replace with a dairy-free substitute, such as coconut oil or margarine, for a dairy-free version.

Cook techniques

Patting Chicken Dry

To achieve a crispy skin when searing, it’s important to pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This removes excess moisture, allowing for better browning.

Searing Chicken

Searing the chicken thighs before placing them in the Crock Pot enhances the flavor and creates a delicious golden crust. Cook them skin side down for about 4-5 minutes until browned, then flip and sear the other side for 3 minutes.

Layering Flavors

Adding lemon juice and chicken broth creates a flavorful braising liquid. Pour it over the chicken thighs to infuse the meat with moisture and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Utilizing Herbs

Seasoning the chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano before cooking helps to build a complex flavor profile. Ensure even coating for maximum taste.

Slow Cooking

Cooking on low heat for an extended period allows the chicken to become tender and absorb all the flavors. Patience is key in slow cooking for the best results.

Finishing Touches

Dotting the chicken with butter before cooking adds richness to the dish, resulting in a more luxurious flavor once the meal is ready to serve.

FAQ

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. However, adjust the cooking time as they may require less time to cook through.

What can I serve with Herbed Lemon Chicken Thighs?

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Choose sides that will complement the lemony flavor.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can season and sear the chicken thighs, then store them in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, place them in the Crock Pot with the other ingredients.

Is it possible to cook this recipe on high heat?

Yes, you can cook it on high heat for about 3-4 hours, but the chicken may not be as tender as when cooked on low heat.

How do I know the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and is tender enough to easily pull apart with a fork.

Conclusion

Savor the delightful harmony of flavors in this Crock Pot Herbed Lemon Chicken Thighs recipe. It is a perfect choice for busy days, providing a comforting and nourishing meal with minimal effort. The combination of juicy chicken, aromatic herbs, and zesty lemon ensures that every bite is packed with flavor, making it a family favorite.

Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice

Transform your meal by serving the herbed lemon chicken thighs over a bed of fluffy garlic herb rice, infusing even more flavor into the dish.

Vegetable Medley

Pair the chicken with a colorful vegetable medley, including carrots, bell peppers, and green beans, steamed to perfection for a nutritious side.

Lemon Zucchini Noodles

For a lighter option, complement the chicken with lemon zucchini noodles. Tossed with olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan, they make a refreshing accompaniment.

Herbed Quinoa Salad

Serve with a herbed quinoa salad, mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light lemon vinaigrette for a healthy, satisfying side.

Mashed Potatoes with Garlic Butter

Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic butter provide a comforting base that absorbs the flavorful juices from the chicken, creating a delightful combination.