This recipe is all about juicy chicken thighs slow-cooked to perfection, topped with a creamy and comforting gravy. It’s super easy and perfect for busy days!
You just toss everything in the crockpot, go about your day, and let it do its magic. The smell that fills your home is pure bliss—get ready for some happy tastebuds! 😋
I love serving this over mashed potatoes or rice, soaking up all that delicious gravy. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, and so simple to make for dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are perfect as they stay juicy during cooking. If you only have skinless thighs, don’t worry; just adjust the cooking time slightly as they can cook faster.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika add great flavor. You can substitute with fresh herbs! Fresh garlic and onions will enhance the taste, or use Italian seasoning for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: It’s best for a rich gravy, but half-and-half or whole milk will also work if you’re looking for a lighter version. For non-dairy, try coconut cream or almond milk thickened with cornstarch.
Flour: This thickens the gravy beautifully. If you’re gluten-free, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour mix instead. Just remember to adjust the quantity to achieve the right consistency.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Is Tender and Delicious?
The key to perfect chicken thighs lies in the slow cooking. Cooking them on low for 6-7 hours allows them to become incredibly tender. If you’re in a hurry, the high setting for 3-4 hours works, but I recommend low for the best flavor and texture.
- Season thoroughly to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- The optional browning step in a skillet adds a lovely depth of flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it.
- Check the chicken’s temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Easy Crockpot Chicken Thighs with Creamy Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning)
For the Gravy:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time, plus 6-7 hours for cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. Don’t forget to allow about 30 minutes to thicken the gravy before serving. So, set your crockpot in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika on both sides. This helps to infuse delicious flavors into the chicken as it cooks.
2. (Optional) Browning the Chicken:
If you want extra flavor, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken thighs skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until golden brown, then flip them for another 2 minutes. This step is optional, as the crockpot will also make it delightful without browning.
3. Setting Up the Crockpot:
Place the chopped onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the crockpot. Arrange the chicken thighs on top of those flavorful veggies.
4. Adding the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over the chicken in an even manner. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
5. Preparing the Creamy Gravy:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the crockpot and set them aside on a plate. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and heavy cream until smooth.
6. Thickening the Gravy:
Pour the flour and cream mixture into the crockpot, stirring well to combine. Add the Dijon mustard if you’re using it for that extra zing! Cover again and cook on high for 20-30 minutes or until the gravy thickens up wonderfully.
7. Finishing Touches:
Return the chicken thighs to the crockpot, spoon some of that rich gravy over them, and warm them through for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Serving Up:
Garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Dig in and enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors of this delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Chicken Thighs with Creamy Gravy
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can certainly use boneless chicken thighs! They will cook faster, so be sure to check for doneness around the 3-4 hour mark on low or 2-3 hours on high. They might not be as juicy as bone-in, but they’ll still be delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even coconut cream to keep it dairy-free. If using milk, you may need to add a bit more flour to thicken the gravy properly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to maintain the creamy consistency.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like carrots or potatoes, to the crockpot along with the chicken. Just chop them into even pieces and place them at the bottom before adding the chicken. This will add extra flavor and make the meal even heartier!