Crock pot chicken thighs are a simple dinner recipe that is put together in less than 5 minutes. These crockpot chicken thighs cook all day making them great for busy weeknights. The best part is the whole family will love the flavorful chicken and request these time and again.
When you know you’re going to be gone all day and need an easy recipe, crockpot recipes come in handy.
Healthy chicken crockpot recipes that taste great become family favorites. Kids tend to like chicken and if you watch for sales, you can grab bone-in chicken thighs for a great price. I like to keep chicken thighs frozen in my freezer for a quick slow cooker meal.
This slow cooker chicken recipe is one of the easiest ways to cook skin-on chicken thighs. I love easy meals like these crock pot chicken thighs because they are cost-effective and kids love them! If you don’t have time to let the chicken cook all day, follow our instructions on How to Boil Chicken Thighs for quick, juicy chicken in just 45 minutes.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 8 bone in chicken thighs ✅ may also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 6 ounces beer or chicken broth ✅
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder ✅ or fresh garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder ✅
- 1 teaspoon paprika ✅
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Gluten-Free Guide: If you’re new to eating gluten-free we understand it’s overwhelming trying to figure out which foods may contain gluten and which ones don’t. All of our gluten-free recipes marked with this symbol ✅ represent foods that need to be checked for gluten.
How To Make Chicken Thighs In The Crock Pot
Transforming a simple set of ingredients into a favorite dinner, this delicious recipe is the reason why we love the crockpot. Place the bone-in chicken thighs into the crockpot. Next, pour in six ounces of beer or opt for chicken broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic twist (the alcohol cooks off).
In a mixing bowl make the dry rub by combine one teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, along with a teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of pepper. Sprinkle over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
How Long To Cook Chicken Thighs in Crock Pot?
Now, let the crockpot work its work. For thawed chicken, set your slow-cooker for 6-8 hours on low heat or opt for the express lane with a high setting for 2-4 hours.
How To Get Crispy Skin On the Chicken Thighs?
Once the time is up you can opt to serve the chicken thighs as is or for crispy chicken skin you can broil them. Set your oven to broil, place the chicken thighs onto a baking sheet, then broil for 3-5 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Recipe Substitutions
If you are a child making this recipe or if you’re just not into beer and want an alternative, try the following:
- Skip the beer altogether and let the chicken simmer in its own juices
- Replace beer with chicken broth
- Replace beer with a gluten-free beer like Lakefront New Grist for a gluten-free recipe
- Add soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free) and red pepper flakes for an extra pop of flavor and heat or add a premade honey garlic sauce.
- If your family prefers to not have chicken on the bone, go ahead using boneless chicken thighs and following the same instructions.
- Use Italian seasonings in place of the spices and add brown sugar for sweetness.
Kitchen Tip: The alcohol in the beer cooks off. The end product DOES NOT contain alcohol but it does give this chicken an amazing flavor.
What to Serve With Chicken Thighs
When serving this slow cooker chicken thighs recipe, you have a variety of delicious options to create a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
The tender chicken thighs can be paired with flavorful cauliflower rice for a low-carb and healthy option, or served over cheesy mashed potatoes for a comforting classic side dish. Crockpot chicken thighs go well with white rice or egg noodles with a touch of olive oil or lemon juice as well. Soups pair well and we love the kid-favorite, Hamburger Soup.
For added color and nutrients, consider roasting a mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts. Alternatively, a fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
You can make gravy from the liquid leftover in the bottom of the slow cooker by combining a tablespoon of cornstarch to 2 tablespoons of cold water in a bowl. Whisk this into the hot liquid until it begins to thicken. If it’s not hot enough you can pour the liquid into a microwave safe bowl and heat for 1-2 minutes then whisk to thicken.
FAQs
After the chicken thighs are cooked, simply place them onto a baking sheet and broil them for 3-4 minutes or until the skin starts to brown up and get crispy.
Broiling helps crisp the skin after cooking in the slow cooker.
Yes, chicken thighs become increasingly tender the longer you cook them. This is because chicken thighs are relatively tougher cuts of meat compared to other parts of the chicken, like the breast. However, the slow and extended cooking time, such as in a crockpot or slow cooker, allows the connective tissues in the chicken thighs to break down gradually. As these connective tissues break down, the meat becomes more tender and succulent. The low and slow cooking method also allows the flavors to develop and permeate the meat, resulting in a delicious and tender final product that easily falls off the bone.
It is not always necessary to add water when cooking chicken in a crockpot. The slow cooking process helps retain moisture, and the chicken typically releases its own juices while cooking. If you choose not to use a sauce or liquid, adding a small amount of water or broth can create some steam and maintain the chicken’s tenderness.
If your chicken turns out too tough in the crockpot, there could be a few reasons behind it. Overcooking and using high temperatures can cause the proteins to become tough. It’s crucial to follow the recommended cooking times and settings. Lack of sufficient liquid or sauce can also lead to dryness and toughness, so make sure to include enough moisture to keep the chicken moist during the slow cooking process. Using leaner cuts like chicken breasts can contribute to dryness, so opt for darker meat or a whole chicken for more tender results.
The best part of this recipe is that there is no need to brown the chicken thighs first. They go into the crockpot raw saving the time and dishes of searing the chicken.
Per the USDA, it’s not recommended to put the frozen chicken into the crockpot, but rather thaw the chicken first.
This baked chicken post reviews quick ways to properly defrost chicken thighs. That said, we have cooked frozen chicken thighs in the crockpot often. Make sure to cook them in a single layer. This ensures they simmer in their own juices all day providing delicious flavor, helping keep the chicken moist, and bringing the chicken thighs up temperature more quickly. The safest bet is to cook frozen chicken thighs in an instant pot. Learn how to cook Instant Pot Frozen Chicken Thighs here.
Storage Instructions
If you’re not planning to consume the cooked chicken immediately, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container or wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. Store the cooked chicken in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. It should be consumed within 3-4 days.
If you have leftover cooked chicken that you won’t be using within a few days, freezing is a great option to extend its shelf life. Allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Label the container with the date, as frozen cooked chicken is best consumed within 2-6 months for optimal quality.
When thawing frozen cooked chicken, it is safest to do so in the refrigerator overnight. You can also use the defrost setting on your microwave if you need to thaw it quickly.
To reheat cooked chicken, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential bacteria. You can reheat it in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop.
More Chicken Recipes
- Instant Pot Bone-In Chicken Thighs
- How to Cook Frozen Chicken Breast in the Instant Pot
- Instant Pot Chicken Wings
- Instant pot Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Instant Pot Chicken Spaghetti
CKC Features both Gluten-Free Guidance and Kids Cooking Instructions: If you’re new to eating gluten-free we understand it’s overwhelming trying to figure out which foods may contain gluten and which ones don’t. All of our gluten-free recipes marked with this symbol ✅ represent foods that need to be checked for gluten or cross-contamination.
The ⭐️ symbol in the recipe below denotes the steps in which kid cooks may need a helper (depending on age). If there is no ⭐️ symbol, that step (or recipe) doesn’t require a helper.
Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 bone in chicken thighs ✅
- 6 ounces beer or chicken broth ✅
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder ✅
- 1 teaspoon onion powder ✅
- 1 teaspoon paprika ✅
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Place the chicken into the crockpot. Place the chicken thighs into the crockpot, pour the beer in, sprinkle spices on top.8 bone in chicken thighs, 6 ounces beer or chicken broth, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- Cook. For thawed chicken, cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-4 hours.
For Frozen Chicken Thighs in the Crock Pot
- Cook for 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high.
Video
Notes
Broil for crispy skin
To get crispy skin, simply place the chicken thighs onto a baking pan and broil for 2-3 minutes!Substitutions
Use any spices your family enjoys to create a whole new meal. CKC Features both Gluten-Free Guidance and Kids Cooking Instructions: If you’re new to eating gluten-free we understand it’s overwhelming trying to figure out which foods may contain gluten and which ones don’t. All of our gluten-free recipes marked with this symbol ✅ represent foods that need to be checked for gluten or cross-contamination. The ⭐️ symbol in the recipe below denotes the steps in which kid cooks may need a helper (depending on age). If there is no ⭐️ symbol, that step (or recipe) doesn’t require a helper.Nutrition
If you enjoyed these recipes make sure to leave a comment and a star rating below!
Then follow us on social media and tag #createkidsclub if you make the recipe. We love seeing what you come up with!
Ann @ MyMenuPal says
Going in the slow cooker now! Can’t wait to try it!
Create Kids Club says
Yeah! Let me know what you think ๐
Nikki says
Do you broil the chicken for a few minutes before or after the slow cooker??
Jodi Danen, RDN says
Hi Nikki! You broil the chicken after it is finished cooking in the slow cooker. I hope you enjoy the recipe!
Dani says
What sides go good wit this
Jodi Danen, RDN says
Hi Dani! The best part about chicken thighs is that pretty much anything pairs well with it! I have a large selection of sides you can pick from here: https://www.createkidsclub.com/category/recipes/side-dishes/
susan currier says
Just surprised if this site says Create Kids Club why would you use beer in a recipe?
Create Kids Club says
Hi Susan! Here at Create Kids Club we are all about quick and easy recipes. Beer is used in this delicious recipe for a few reasons. But first I want to make sure to say that any alcohol in recipes made with beer or wine, cooks off during the cooking process. There is no alcohol in the finished product.
Beer is a simple and inexpensive tenderizer that gives a wonderful flavor to meats. I encourage you to give the recipe a try and let me know what you think! Thanks so much for asking this important question!
Steph says
Im celiac, can I use something else rather than beer ?
Create Kids Club says
Hi Steph! You could use a gluten-free beer. I have done that in the past with good results. You could also use chicken broth. Let me know what you go with and how it turns out!
Janice Messmer says
I am in agreement. A child does not think the way an adult does. They will think If I can cook with it, I can drink it. They do not understand that the alcohol burns off. Using alcohol in a recipe for kids is irresponsible at the least. Please rethink the recipe to use one of your suggested beer substitutes and then as a suggestion for adults say that beer can be a substitute. Same goes for wine and other alcohols. Also, when I opened the video to play it, the ad that played was for Makers Mark whiskey. Not cool at all.
Jodi Danen, RDN says
Hi Janice, I appreciate the feedback! I have added info to the post to suggest using chicken broth over beer for any children cooking. Also, thank you for pointing out the alcohol ads. They are now blocked from the site. I appreciate you taking the time to provide your feedback!
Amy says
Just making this for the first time and saw this comment. People cook with beer and wine all the time and it does cook off and tastes delicious. She clearly notes that you can use chicken broth instead. I think your commentary is a little harsh. Maybe just not make this recipe instead of sharing negativity?
Jeff says
Move along! To post this just shows the type of person you are. Absolutely no one wants an opinion like that. Just stop the negativity.
Peggy Esposito says
Your comments are so unnecessary – why can’t you focus on the sharing of her recipe instead of your thoughts on alcohol in a recipe with kids nearby? I don’t understand such negativity in a forum such as recipe sharing.
Magda says
Does the beer have to completely cover the chicken? Sprinkle spices evenly on top of the chicken?
Create Kids Club says
Hi Magda! Nope- the beer will it will not cover the chicken. And the spices don’t need to be even, just sprinkle them liberally over the top. Tastes great and makes life easier ๐ I hope you enjoy!
Alissa says
I am making this now and my beer cmpletely covered the chicken with about an inch of the beer on top! I used 10 thighs… will it still turn out okay?
Create Kids Club says
Yup it will! That’s ok. The skin won’t get crisp, but it’s better to not eat the skin anyway ๐ I hope you enjoy!
Cherie says
What if the beer DOES cover the chicken?! Should I take some out? Just turned it on lol
Create Kids Club says
That’s ok! The skin won’t get crisp, but I’d recommend not eating it anyway ๐ I hope you enjoy!
Sharon Kendrick says
trying it with skinless thighs. Will that work ok?
Create Kids Club says
YEs, that should work just fine! Let me know how you like the recipe ๐
Wendi says
V like the dark meat….most do not. And I LOVE crispy skin…..No calorie saving here! I haven’t made this yet, but I will. Have been trying to find recipes that do not leave everything soggy…..Thank you!
Create Kids Club says
Hi Wendi! My kids totally agree with you – no soggy chicken ๐ I hope you enjoy and would love to hear how you like it after you give it a try!
Katie says
If the chicken is thawed, do I cook on low for 4 hours?
Create Kids Club says
I would cook them for 6 hours. I hope you enjoy! If you are home and want to see if they are done at 4 hours, use a thermometer in the thickest part (not touching a bone) they need to reach 165 degrees. ๐
Vanessa says
I’m cooking this for dinner this evening!!! Super excited ๐ I used a can of beer and sprinked Garlic Plus seasoning over it (using boneless skinless thighs)
My little girl just came home from school and commented on how good it smells ๐
Create Kids Club says
That makes me so happy to hear, Vanessa! Come back and let me know what your family thought! I am imagining the smell now ๐
Stacey McClanahan says
What side would you recommend to serve with this?
Create Kids Club says
I think some mashed potatoes and a side salad would be amazing. Though on busy nights, a bag of steamed veggies and some whole grain dinner rolls would be my go to meal ๐ Let me know what you think of the recipe!
Chaunte Walker says
How many ounces of beer do you use? A regular 12 oz would probably be plenty. This looks delicious and I plan to try it tonight! Heck, I think I will get a big can and make my homemade beer cheese soup to go along with it!
Create Kids Club says
12 oz. is perfect. Let me know what you think! And the beer cheese soup sounds delish!!
Chaunte Walker says
It was delicious! I ended up shredding the cooked chicken and adding some BBQ spices and a little BBQ sauce and we had sandwiches. A perfect pairing with the soup. This is my new go to recipe and it’s fairly quick to cook too! Thanks!!
Create Kids Club says
Sounds great! I love how easy it is too – and versatile! Thank you for sharing ๐
Kris Croft says
What can be substituted for the beer?
Create Kids Club says
Hi Kris – You could use chicken broth or non-alcoholic beer in place of the regular beer. It will change the flavor a bit, but will still turn out great! The alcohol does cook off if that is a concern. Hope you enjoy the recipe and I’d love to hear how you liked it ๐
Katie | Healthy Seasonal Recipes says
I am going to be using this technique this month for sure. We are so busy between now and when school ends in the middle of June. Thank you for a great idea.
Create Kids Club says
I hope you enjoy, Katie! I love simple recipes and it’s even better when the whole family likes them too!
Kristina says
Hi there! what if i only have 4 chicken breasts, is this same recipe okay?
Create Kids Club says
Hi Kristina! The flavor will be different as the bone in chicken thighs have a higher fat content. I do think it would still be tasty as the beer will tenderize and the spices add a nice flavor. If you give it a try I would love to hear how it turned out! Good luck!
Mandyscarp says
Jodi, I can’t figure out how to just add a comment, but I have 2 questions :
1.) I’m on a low-sodium diet. Would Mrs. Dash Onion and Herb Blend be sufficient to season it?
2.) Could I put a mix of new potatoes and fresh green beans in the bottom and lay the chicken over it, without the veggies getting too mushy?
Create Kids Club says
Hi Mandy! I think that Mrs. Dash would work well for seasoning the chicken. The potatoes would work for sure, but the green beans may get a bit soggy if left to cook the whole time. If you are home, you might consider adding them in the last 30 mins-1 hour to avoid the mushy texture. I love your idea for a whole meal straight from the crock pot! I am going to give this a try as well! ๐
Kelsi says
I can’t figure out how to add a comment either ! You broil them AFTER they’re cooked right?? Just making sure ๐
kelsi
Create Kids Club says
You are correct! You don’t have to broil if you want to skip that step – the broiling will get the skin nice and crispy though ๐
Eileen says
If using beer, can I serve with a chicken gravy after browning under broiler or will it clash with beer flavor.
Jodi Danen, RDN says
Hi Eileen! Yes, you can definitely serve with a chicken gravy. The chicken does not pick up the flavor of beer, it just helps tenderize and adds to the delicious flavor profile.
Karen says
Sounds very good and am cooking them now. I am staying and helping an elderly and wonderful woman who just got home from being in a nursing home, so there wasn’t much to work with here and I luckily found all of the ingredients you had suggested! I took the skin off of 2 of them for her just in case she doesn’t like it out of the six pieces that fit perfectly in the crock pot. Ty for the recipe, and I will let you know how she liked it! I am thinking of putting them over some rice and vegetables instead of the potatoes to try to help her stay healthy though. ๐
Jodi Danen, RDN says
Kudos to you Karen for being so caring and helping out. I hope she enjoyed the chicken. It’s a staple at my house due to the ease of making it!
Mary says
So easy and delicious!
Missy says
Made these last night. Simple and we loved them! A keeper!
Create Kids Club says
I am so happy to hear you enjoyed the recipe, Missy!! They are a family favorite in my house ๐
Loretta says
Hi you have 8 chicken thighs listed ,I have 5 chicken bone in chicken thighs, , thats all that will fit in my crockpot
do i cook these for 6 hours on low
Create Kids Club says
Hi Loretta – yes, cook them the same as if there were more in there. I’d love to hear what you think after making them!
Darla says
I was looking for inspiration for something to make for dinner that would utilize my slow cooker as I was going to be busy with errands all afternoon (helping someone move). I had a 1.3 Lb. package of chicken thighs (previously in my freezer, defrosted in microwave).
I didn’t even think about beer as a recipe ingredient, but I usually have a good selection of craft beer bottles on hand. Found this recipe and decided to go for it!
I used a 12oz bottle of Heavy Seas Siren Noire (Imperial Stout brewed with Chocolate aged in Bourbon Barrels) minus a couple sips ?
I also used Garlic Paste, ground ginger, ground chipotle chilie pepper, Himalayan pink salt, ground black pepper, and Red Robin seasoning!
Cooked on high 4 hours. Turned out AMAZING. Thank you! I love how versatile this recipe could be with a few tweaks, different beer, different spices, etc. Also got a surprise approval from someone who has worked in the restaurant industry for years and considers themselves a very good cook (AKA scary to cook for, lol).
Create Kids Club says
I love this version and am thrilled to hear you enjoyed it too! I love using different beer options and seeing how the flavor really changes the dish! Thank you for sharing!!
Merri Bayarena says
I made this recipe last night and from the time my hubby walked into our home he commented on how good the smell was! When he sat down to supper he was completely sold from the very first bite! He ended up eating a total of 5 thighs! Heโs usually good for at least three but he surpassed that last night! Iโve never been more content! Thank you for sharing this especially easy and simple recipe. Iโm hanging on to this one because heโs already called from work to see if he could have โleftoversโ from last night
Create Kids Club says
I love this – thank you for sharing! These chicken thighs are a favorite at my house for all the same reasons. I’m thrilled they helped you get a quick and delicious meal served too! I hope you made enough to have those leftovers ๐
Dawn says
I love making boneless chicken thighs in the crockpot and never thought to make them by themselves. Usually I add potatoes and call it a meal in a few hours lol. Going to have to try this with skin on thighs. I usually only cook them in my cast iron pan or on the grill, but I am open for change ๐
Jodi Danen, RDN says
I hope you enjoy, Dawn! My kids love these, and I love that they are so easy. I may have to try adding a few potatoes in there next time, I’m liking that idea!
Loretta Baker says
Hi I have 6 Frozen bone in, skin on chicken thighs ..im confused about the low ccok time for frozen , at one place you have 8-10 hours then in the recipe you have 6-8 hours ..which is it,Please
thanks
Jodi Danen, RDN says
Hi Loretta! If using frozen chicken, increase cooking time to 8-10 hour on low, or 4-6 hours on high. Enjoy!
Loretta Baker says
Thanks !! :0)
Larissa says
Im confused on the cooking time too. I have 6 chicken thighs thawed, so do i cook them for 6-8 hours on low or 4-6 on high, or 6 hrs on low and 2-4 hrs on high? There’a 2 separate times on the website for thawed amd frozen
Jodi Danen, RDN says
Hi Larissa! If you have thawed chicken thighs cook them for 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high. I’d love to hear what you think of them if you give it a try!
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Lizzy says
Only have 4 big chicken thighs . Should I still cook the septic shorter time
Jodi Danen, RDN says
Hi Lizzy, I’d still cook them for the same amount of time. Enjoy!
Susan says
Absolutely delicious. Thank you.
Mickey says
Making this now. I used a bottle of Leinenkigelโs canoe paddle Kolsch and a pkg of Caribbean Jerk seasoning. Added some minced onion and fresh minced garlic as well. I will definitely be broiling these to get them crispy! Iโll let you know how it ends up. Thanks for the recipe!
Michael says
Hey! I’m trying this to the letter. I’m anticipating the outcome. So easy for a man on the go. Updates to follow.
Anna says
Sounds good. How much chicken broth cause I don’t drink beer.
Jodi Danen, RDN says
Hi Anna! You can replace it with 6 ounces of chicken broth. I hope you enjoy the recipe. ๐
Finn says
too easy
Sherrie says
Making this now. I used 6 chicken thighs and 6 oz of beer so it didn’t cover the skin.
I wonder if you could season the chicken and brown it before putting it in the crock pot. Then add the browned chicken to the beer in the crock pot. I may try that next time so I can compare it. Thanks for the easy recipes.
Jodi Danen, RDN says
Hi Sherrie! I’d love to know how that turns out if you do try it. I like using the broiler to have that crispy skin, but the flavor from browning it first would likely be delicious too!
Brenda says
Meh. Exchanged beer for chicken broth; all else, followed the recipe to the letter. Despite there being many spices, I didn’t get much flavor. But you did introduce me to a great hack. I had never thought of crisping up the chicken by putting it under the broiler.
For that, I count it for a small win.
Lauren says
Prepared this recipe using frozen chicken quarters and chicken broth. Used Smoked Paprika. We do not eat the skin but the seassoning seeped through and the meat was delicious! Used this recipe as I had much to do that day and did not want to spend time prepping. Going to use this recipe often and will pass on to the grandchildren to get them cooking with their parents’ help.
Shelley says
I am cooking this for the first time. I am using boneless and skinless chicken thighs. Do you stir this during cooking? Not sure what sides to have with this. Also, not going to brown afterward. Any suggestions what sides to cook?
Jodi Danen, RDN says
Hi Shelly! Great questions. You do not stir it during the cooking time. I have a ton of side dish recipes on the site you can check out here I hope you enjoy!
Sharon M Seiber says
I made this today. I did put some potatoes in the bottom as several said. I also cut a stick of celery, 4 oz of mushrooms. I used the bagel seasoning as it had many of the spices I was going to use. Now that I stopped fiddling with the recipe we are anxiously waiting for supper! This was such a good recipe and I thank you for it. I love these kinds of recipes. If the fiddling around is great I will leave a comment again.
Donna says
I printed this recipe and sent my child to the grocery store to buy the ingredients. They refused to sell him chicken broth. So I said just buy the beer instead.
Angel says
I have 8 chicken thighs I used and instead of using a tsp of all the seasonings I used a 1/2 tablespoon where I had extra chicken will it still taste the same?
Jodi Danen, RDN says
Hi Angel, I think that would taste very similar and be just fine! I hope you enjoy them!