Cooking chicken thighs and legs in a slow cooker can result in tender and flavorful meat that falls off the bone. Here's the best way to do it:
Ingredients:
- Chicken thighs and legs (skin-on, bone-in for maximum flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Your choice of herbs and spices (e.g., paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, etc.)
- 1 onion, sliced (optional, for added flavor)
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth, water, or other liquid (optional, depending on the recipe)
- Vegetables (e.g., carrots, potatoes) - optional, for a complete meal
Instructions:
Prep the Chicken: Rinse the chicken thighs and legs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs and spices. You can customize the seasoning based on your preferences.
Sear the Chicken (Optional): While it's not necessary, you can enhance the flavor by searing the chicken thighs and legs in a hot pan with a little oil before placing them in the slow cooker. This will help develop a rich, caramelized exterior.
Layer the Ingredients: If you're using onions, garlic, or vegetables, layer them at the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the seasoned chicken thighs and legs on top.
Liquid: You can add some liquid to the slow cooker to keep the chicken moist during cooking. About 1/2 cup of chicken broth, water, or even a mixture of broth and a splash of wine or lemon juice can be added. The chicken will release some juices as it cooks, so you don't need too much liquid.
Cooking Time: Cover the slow cooker and set it to the desired cooking temperature. Cooking times will vary depending on your slow cooker settings, but on low heat, chicken thighs and legs will usually take around 4-6 hours, while on high heat, they may be done in 2-3 hours. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches a minimum of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Optional Vegetables: If you want to cook vegetables alongside the chicken, add them during the last 1-2 hours of cooking. This prevents them from becoming too mushy during the long cooking process.
Finishing Touches: Once the chicken thighs and legs are cooked and tender, you can serve them as they are or use the cooking liquid to make a flavorful sauce or gravy.
Remember to adjust cooking times based on your slow cooker's settings and the amount of chicken you're cooking. With this method, you'll have delicious, fork-tender chicken thighs and legs with minimal effort. Enjoy your meal!