Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 375 min

Slow-Cooker Chicken Thighs: Effortless, Flavorful, and Absolutely Foolproof

Some recipes are just too good to keep to yourself, and this slow-cooker chicken thighs recipe is one of them.

After making countless versions that didn’t quite hit the mark, I finally landed on a flavor-packed, melt-in-your-mouth chicken dish that’s as easy as it is delicious.

With minimal prep and a bold, sweet-savory sauce, this dish transforms humble chicken thighs into a tender, restaurant-quality meal—without any extra effort.

Just sear, set, and let the slow cooker do the work.

By the time dinner rolls around, you’ll have juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken ready to be spooned over rice.

It’s hands-off cooking at its best!

Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner win or a meal prep lifesaver, this recipe is about to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Let’s get cooking!

For Slow-Cooker Chicken Thighs

Chicken Thighs – You can use boneless or bone-in chicken thighs, whichever you prefer. Both will turn out tender and flavorful.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Used for searing the chicken before slow cooking, which enhances the flavor.
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Basic seasoning to bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Adds a deep, umami flavor while keeping the sodium levels in check.
Ketchup – This may seem like an unusual ingredient, but it adds a touch of sweetness and helps thicken the sauce.
Honey – Brings a rich caramelized sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
Garlic & Ginger – These aromatics provide bold, fresh flavors that make the sauce irresistible.
Sriracha – For a little spicy kick. You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
Lime Juice – Adds a bright citrusy freshness that lifts the entire dish.

For Serving

Cooked Rice – The perfect base to soak up the delicious sauce.
Green Onions – Optional, but adds a fresh, slightly sharp contrast to the rich sauce.
Sesame Seeds – A final garnish that brings a subtle crunch and nuttiness to the dish.

Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs Recipe

Craving a mouthwatering, stress-free dinner? These slow-cooker chicken thighs are fall-apart tender and smothered in a bold, sweet-savory sauce—all with just 15 minutes of prep! Let your slow cooker do the work while you go about your day, then come home to a delicious, restaurant-quality meal ready to be served over rice.

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs Recipe

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 6

Total Time: 6 15

Servings:

.

Ingredients

1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
6 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
½ cup ketchup
¼ cup honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp freshly minced ginger
2 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
Juice of 1 lime
Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
Sear for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ketchup, honey, garlic, ginger, Sriracha, and lime juice.
Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker and toss to coat evenly.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or high for 2 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the chicken over cooked rice, spooning extra sauce over the top.
Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Recipe Tips

Searing for Extra Flavor – While optional, searing the chicken adds depth and enhances the texture. Skip this step if you’re in a hurry.
Customizing the Heat – Adjust the Sriracha based on your spice preference, or omit it for a milder taste.
Make it a Meal – Pair with steamed broccoli, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp side salad.
Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

What to Serve With Slow-Cooker Chicken Thighs

White Rice – The perfect base to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Sautéed Vegetables – Try garlic broccoli rabe or caramelized Brussels sprouts for a nutritious side.
Asian Slaw – A crunchy, tangy side dish that balances the richness of the chicken.

Nutrition

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1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of bone-in ones?

You can absolutely swap boneless, skinless chicken thighs in place of bone-in thighs. Just make sure to reduce the cooking time to 2.5-3 hours on low. The chicken will still be juicy and tender!

2. Is searing the chicken before cooking in the slow cooker necessary?

Searing the chicken adds extra flavor and a nice golden color. But if you’re in a rush, you can skip this step! Just toss the seasoned chicken straight into the slow cooker—it’ll still taste amazing.

3. What if I don’t have all the spices listed in the recipe?

Don’t worry! You can adjust the spices based on what you have on hand. For example, if you’re missing ginger, just skip it or use a pinch of cinnamon for a twist. Keep it simple and still get a great result.

4. Can I add veggies to the slow cooker along with the chicken?

Yes! Adding carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers is a great idea. Layer the veggies at the bottom of the slow cooker, and the chicken will cook perfectly on top. It’s an easy way to make the meal even more hearty.

5. How do I store leftovers, and how long do they last?

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it! The chicken will stay good for up to 4 months—just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.