This Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs recipe delivers juicy, flavor-packed chicken with minimal effort using bone-in, skin-on thighs and a savory garlic-herb spice blend.
With just a few minutes of prep and the help of your slow cooker, you’ll have a comforting, aromatic dinner that tastes like you spent all afternoon in the kitchen. The buttery broth, crispy-seared skin, and tender meat make this a weeknight winner your whole family will request again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Mouthwatering flavor, no fuss: Garlic, paprika, and Italian herbs infuse each bite with rich, comforting taste.
- Set it and forget it: Your slow cooker does the heavy lifting—perfect for busy evenings.
- Incredible texture: Searing the skin adds a crisp, golden finish while slow cooking keeps the meat melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Flexible and family-friendly: Pairs well with potatoes, rice, or veggies and works for both casual dinners and meal prep.
Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs Ingredients
- 2 lb. bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (4–5 pieces)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- ⅓ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup butter, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs
- Prep the chicken: Pat thighs completely dry with paper towels.
- Make the spice rub: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and Italian seasoning.
- Season & sear: Rub spice mix all over the chicken. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken skin-side down until golden and crispy, about 3–4 minutes.
- Assemble in slow cooker: Transfer chicken (skin-side up) to the slow cooker. Pour in chicken broth.
- Add butter and garlic: Scatter diced butter and minced garlic over the chicken.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on LOW for 4.5 to 5 hours, or until chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Expert Recipe Tips
- Dry is key: Thoroughly pat chicken dry to ensure the skin crisps properly when seared.
- Control the salt: Use low-sodium broth to balance seasoning levels.
- Boost flavor: Don’t skip the searing step—it adds depth and delicious texture.
- Want it saucier? Double the broth and butter for more dipping or drizzling goodness.
Recipe Variations
- BBQ Style: Use BBQ sauce and a splash of vinegar instead of broth for a smoky twist.
- Creamy Herb: Add cream cheese and a splash of cream for a rich, comforting sauce.
- Lemon-Garlic: Include lemon zest and juice for a brighter, citrusy profile.
- Cajun Kick: Swap the spice blend for Cajun seasoning and a pinch of cayenne.
- Soy-Ginger Fusion: Replace spices with soy sauce, grated ginger, and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired version.
Storage Instructions
- In the Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs
- Microwave: Heat on high for 1–3 minutes, checking halfway.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water.
- Air Fryer: Crisp up in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3 minutes.
FAQ’S:
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly and check for doneness at around 4 hours.
Do I need to sear the chicken first?
Searing is optional, but it adds delicious flavor and texture. Highly recommended!
Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
For food safety and even cooking, thaw chicken thighs in the fridge overnight before using.
How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the spice mix to dial up the heat.
How do I prevent sticking in the slow cooker?
Spray the insert with nonstick spray or use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
More Pioneer Woman Recipe:
- Pioneer Woman Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Burrito Bowls
- Pioneer Woman Mexican Cornbread Casserole
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 442
- Protein: 37g
- Fat: 53g
- Carbs: 2g
- Sodium: 630mg
Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs
Description
Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs Recipe features bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and Italian seasoning. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish takes 4.5-5 hours and serves 4-5.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry. Mix spices and rub over thighs.
- Sear in skillet, skin-side down, 3–4 mins.
- Transfer to slow cooker, add broth, butter, and garlic.
- Cook on LOW 4.5–5 hrs or until 165°F internal temp.
- Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- Dry chicken well before searing.
Use low-sodium broth for balance.
Optional: double broth for extra sauce.
Air fryer is great for reheating!
