7 Slow-Cooker Chicken Thigh Recipes for Easier Weeknight Meals

If you have a slow cooker, you know what a kitchen superhero it is, transforming simple ingredients into delicious, wholesome meals – just what we need on busy weeknights. And when it comes to versatility, chicken thighs take the crown — they’re affordable, tender, and so adaptable to various flavors. Take the stress out of meal planning with these slow-cooker chicken thigh recipes, and get ready to relax and enjoy some seriously hassle-free, budget-friendly, tasty, and healthy dinners. 

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1. Slow Cooker Lemon-Garlic Chicken Thighs

In this zesty dish, the bright flavors of lemon and garlic infuse into tender chicken thighs, creating a dish bursting with freshness. Plus, the lemon has vitamin C, and the garlic is anti-inflammatory, so this recipe is not only loaded with flavor and super convenient, but good for you, too. 

Try this recipe from Sweet Peas and Saffron

2. Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Thighs

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this crowd-pleasing dish. Packed with tomatoes, olives, and aromatic herbs, it’s full of good nutrition. Add some red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat, or toss in some artichoke hearts for added flavor and texture.

Try this recipe from Slender Kitchen

3. Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs

When we say “barbecue chicken,” you might think of your grill – but this dish hits all the smoky, sweet, tangy notes. It’s going to be one of your favorite slow-cooker chicken thigh recipes. With just 4 ingredients and super-quick prep, it couldn’t be easier. Tip: When you’re shopping, look for a barbecue sauce that’s low in sugar.

Try this recipe from Cook at Home Mom

4. Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Teriyaki sauce is one of those items that seems really complicated to make, but is actually pretty simple. In this dish, a few pantry ingredients come together, along with chicken thighs, for a luscious, sweet, and savory dish everyone will love. Serve it with rice or even quinoa for an additional shot of protein.

Try this recipe from Sweet Savory and Steph.

5. Crock Pot Salsa Verde Chicken

Five minutes of prep, 5 simple ingredients, and you’re on your way to a dish loaded with vibrant flavor. Choose a mild or spicy salsa depending on your taste, and serve the chicken on top of a salad, with rice (or cauliflower rice), or in tacos or tostadas. 

Try this recipe from The Real Food Dietitians

6. Honey Balsamic Crock Pot Chicken Thighs

Balsamic vinegar can do so much more than brighten up salad dressing. In this dish, you combine it with broth, honey, garlic, and a few other ingredients to form a rich, tangy glaze that makes the chicken thighs really sing. Serve it with a simple vegetable on the side, such as steamed broccoli, and dip it in the tasty sauce.

Try this recipe from The Recipe Rebel

7. Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken

No time for a tropical vacation? Whip up this Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken for the next best thing. With pineapple, ginger, and soy sauce, it’s full of tantalizing flavor. Plus, aside from being sweet and luscious, pineapple is hydrating and loaded with vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and B vitamins. 

Try this recipe from Dinner, Then Dessert

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