Slow Cooker Chicken Dinner (Printable)
Tender chicken with vegetables in herb-infused savory sauce
# What You'll Need:
→ Meats
01 - 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
→ Vegetables
02 - 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
03 - 3 medium potatoes, cut into cubes
04 - 1 large onion, sliced
05 - 2 celery stalks, chopped
06 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
→ Sauces & Liquids
07 - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
08 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
→ Spices & Herbs
09 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
10 - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
11 - 1 teaspoon paprika
12 - Salt and pepper to taste
→ Optional Garnish
13 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
# How-To Steps:
01 - Generously season chicken thighs on all sides with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary, ensuring even coating.
02 - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken thighs and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step enhances flavor depth but may be omitted for convenience.
03 - Layer carrots, potatoes, onion, celery, and garlic evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker insert, creating a bed for the chicken.
04 - Arrange browned chicken thighs over the vegetable layer, ensuring pieces are not overcrowded for even cooking.
05 - Pour chicken broth evenly over the chicken and vegetables, allowing it to distribute throughout the slow cooker.
06 - Cover with lid and cook on low setting for 6 hours. Chicken should register 165°F internally and vegetables should be fork-tender.
07 - Transfer chicken and vegetables to serving plates or a platter. Ladle cooking liquid over the top and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Set it and forget it cooking that gives you freedom to tackle your day
- The chicken becomes impossibly tender, practically falling apart at the touch of a fork
- One pot means minimal cleanup and maximum cozy comfort food vibes
02 -
- Skip the browning step if you are rushing but you will miss those deep caramelized flavors that make this taste restaurant quality
- Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking. Every peek releases 20 minutes of valuable heat and cooking time
03 -
- A splash of white wine added with the broth takes the sauce from good to absolutely incredible
- Pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning to get the best possible sear