Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Garlic and Herbs

(Made with Tyner Pond Farm Pasture-Raised Chicken)

At Tyner Pond Farm, we always look for ways to make good food simple. This slow cooker chicken thigh recipe is one of those meals that works any day of the week. Using bone-in, skin-on thighs gives you tender meat and natural flavor without needing complicated sauces or marinades.

We raise our chickens on pasture, moving them to fresh grass every day. That means the meat has more depth and nutrition than anything raised indoors. When you start with better ingredients, you don’t have to add much else.

Garlic, herbs, and a bit of butter come together to make a broth that’s rich and comforting. The slow cooker does most of the work, and the result is a meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, a splash of heavy cream at the end makes the sauce even richer without adding sugar or starch.

Print Recipe

Ingredients

• 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

• 1 tablespoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or rosemary)

• 4 garlic cloves, smashed

• 1 small onion, sliced

• ½ cup chicken stock (preferably homemade)

• 2 tablespoons butter

Optional (for keto): ¼ cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Season: Pat the chicken dry. Combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Rub under the skin and over the thighs.

2. Brown (optional): Heat butter in a skillet. Place chicken skin-side down and sear until golden, about 4–5 minutes.

3. Layer in the slow cooker: Add onions and garlic first, then chicken on top (skin side up). Pour chicken stock around the edges.

4. Cook:

   • Low: 6–7 hours

   • High: 3–4 hours

5. Finish: For crisp skin, broil 2–3 minutes before serving.

6. Optional sauce: Stir in heavy cream or yogurt and let the sauce thicken slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the thighs with roasted vegetables, mashed cauliflower, or simply spoon the cooking broth over the chicken. It’s one of those meals that leaves nothing to waste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, but bone-in, skin-on thighs have better texture and flavor. If you use boneless, reduce cooking time by about one hour.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes. It’s naturally low in carbs. Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.

Do I need to brown the chicken first?
Not required, but it adds flavor and keeps the skin from getting soggy.

What should I serve with slow cooker chicken thighs?
Roasted vegetables, mashed cauliflower, or a simple green salad all work well.