Crisp Juicy Slow Cooker Chicken

This crisp and juicy slow cooker chicken has saved many of my busiest days by serving up flavorful and perfectly textured chicken thighs with barely any effort. Making this is all about letting the slow cooker do the work while you get on with your day and still enjoy a meal that easily rivals an oven roast.

I tried this for the first time on a hectic workday afternoon and could not believe such little effort could result in chicken my whole family raved about. The crackly skin is honestly addicting.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs skin on bone in: You want fresh high quality thighs with unbroken skin for that signature crispy finish Local or organic chicken brings the richest flavor
• Kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavor and helps render the fat for crispy skin Try to use flaky kosher salt for easy even seasoning
• Cracked black pepper: Freshly crushed gives the meat a bold kick and aromas Pre ground pepper does not give the same boost

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Coat both sides of each chicken thigh with generous pinches of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Rub seasoning under the skin if possible for deeper flavor. Do not skimp on seasoning since much will fall off during cooking.

Arrange in the Slow Cooker:

Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the base of your slow cooker. Make sure they are in a single layer skin side up. Keeping to one layer is crucial for a crispy golden finish.

No Added Liquid:

Keep the slow cooker completely dry. Do not add broth water or any oils. The chicken will release its own juices which keeps the meat tender without steaming the skin.

Slow Cook to Perfection:

Set your slow cooker to the low setting. Cook the chicken for seven hours undisturbed. Resist the urge to peek frequently as this disrupts the heat and slows crisping.

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Chicken thighs are always a winner in my house. My son once proudly declared this the only way he ever wants his chicken made. The freshly cracked black pepper makes all the difference in taste and gives a little crunch to the skin.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover chicken thighs in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For best results reheat in an oven or air fryer to revive the crispy texture. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can make the skin soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Bone in skin on chicken thighs are the best for this technique. In a pinch you can try bone in skin on chicken drumsticks though the result is a bit juicier and may need a short broil for extra crispness. Do not substitute boneless or skinless chicken as you will not get the same crave worthy finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these slow cooker chicken thighs alongside simple roasted potatoes or over a fresh green salad for an easy dinner. The rendered pan juices also make a fantastic drizzle on steamed vegetables or rice.

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Cultural or Historical Context

Slow cooking has always been a beloved method in American home kitchens for its convenience and ability to turn simple cuts of meat into crowd pleasing meals with very little hands on time. The excitement here is creating a texture more often associated with oven roasting or frying simply by letting science work its magic.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I get extra crispy skin in the slow cooker?

For even crispier skin, briefly broil the chicken thighs in the oven after slow cooking until the skin turns golden and crisp.

→ Should I add liquid to the slow cooker?

No additional liquid is needed. The chicken releases enough moisture as it cooks, keeping the meat juicy without steaming the skin.

→ Can I use boneless or skinless thighs?

Bone-in, skin-on thighs yield juicier meat and crispier skin. Boneless or skinless will be tender but lack the classic texture and flavor.

→ What spices work well besides salt and pepper?

Try garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried herbs, or chili flakes for enhanced flavor while keeping the process simple.

→ How do I serve the finished chicken?

Pair with roasted vegetables, rice, salads, or simple potatoes for a hearty and comforting meal any night of the week.