"Easy and Delicious Chicken Thighs Crock Pot Recipe for Busy Weeknights"
#### Description:Are you searching for a hassle-free yet mouthwatering meal to whip up on a busy weeknight? Look no further than this chicken thighs crock p……
#### Description:
Are you searching for a hassle-free yet mouthwatering meal to whip up on a busy weeknight? Look no further than this chicken thighs crock pot recipe. Cooking with a slow cooker is not only convenient, but it also enhances the flavors of your ingredients, making your dish more delicious. This recipe is perfect for families, meal prepping, or simply enjoying a hearty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
#### Ingredients:
To make this chicken thighs crock pot recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, and green beans work well)
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or thyme)
#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Chicken**: Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your dish.
2. **Layer the Ingredients**: In the crock pot, place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom. This will infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks. Next, add the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the onions and garlic.
3. **Add Vegetables and Broth**: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. Then, add the mixed vegetables on top. The slow cooking process will allow the vegetables to soften and absorb the delicious juices from the chicken.
4. **Set the Crock Pot**: Cover your crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time will yield tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken, while the shorter time will still produce a flavorful dish.
5. **Check for Doneness**: Once the cooking time is up, check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If it’s not quite there, let it cook for an additional 30 minutes.
6. **Serve and Enjoy**: Once done, serve the chicken thighs with the vegetables and broth over rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch of flavor and presentation.
#### Tips for Success:
- **For Extra Flavor**: Consider marinating the chicken thighs overnight with your favorite marinade or spices. This will enhance the flavor even more.
- **Customize Your Veggies**: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. Zucchini, potatoes, or even frozen vegetables can be great additions.
- **Thickening the Sauce**: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove some of the broth at the end of cooking, mix it with cornstarch, and return it to the crock pot to thicken.
This chicken thighs crock pot recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavors that everyone will love. It’s perfect for those nights when you want a comforting meal without the fuss. Enjoy the tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, and relish the fact that dinner was a breeze!