Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Veggies Recipe: Easy One-Pot Dinner

Set it and forget it while rich flavors meld into tender meat and wholesome garden fare.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Created on Sep 17, 2025

Set it and forget it while rich flavors meld into tender meat and wholesome garden fare.

Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Veggies: A One-Pot Dinner Hero

There’s something undeniably comforting about a meal that’s both hearty and hands-off. This slow cooker chicken thighs recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken alongside tender carrots and potatoes for a complete dinner that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping, or just craving comfort food with minimal effort, this crockpot dish is a weeknight winner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker chicken thighs and veggies recipe stands out for its:

Minimal prep and cleanup: Once everything’s in the slow cooker, your work is mostly done.
Rich, layered flavors: Seasoned chicken, caramelized vegetables, and a savory broth come together beautifully.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy as a complete meal or pair with bread, rice, or a crisp salad.
Family-friendly appeal: Even picky eaters will enjoy the tender chicken and sweet, soft vegetables.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather the following for a flavorful, satisfying slow cooker chicken dinner:

Ingredient	Amount
Garlic powder	1/2 tsp
Italian seasoning	1/2 tsp
Onion powder	1/2 tsp
Paprika	1/2 tsp
Kosher salt	3 tsp (divided)
Ground black pepper	1 tsp (divided)
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs	6 (about 2.5 lbs)
Olive oil	2 Tbsp
Carrots	1 lb, cut into 1-inch pieces
Baby white potatoes	1 lb, halved if large
Garlic cloves	4, chopped
Thyme sprigs	4
Shallots	2, sliced
Low-sodium chicken broth	1/4 cup
Salted butter	2 Tbsp, cubed
Cornstarch (optional)	2 tsp
Fresh parsley	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Blend

In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, onion powder, paprika, 1 teaspoon of the salt, and ½ teaspoon of the pepper. This blend will give your chicken a savory, aromatic crust.

2. Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season all sides generously with the spice mixture, rubbing it in to coat. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4 minutes. This step is optional but highly recommended for extra flavor and texture.

3. Arrange the Vegetables

Layer the carrots and potatoes in a single layer at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Scatter the chopped garlic, thyme sprigs, and sliced shallots over the top. Season the vegetables with the remaining 2 teaspoons salt and ½ teaspoon pepper, then pour the chicken broth over everything.

4. Add the Chicken and Butter

Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the vegetables, skin-side up. Scatter the cubed butter over the chicken. This will melt into the dish, enriching the sauce and keeping the chicken moist.

5. Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2.5–3 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the vegetables are tender.

6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, carefully transfer the chicken to a plate. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the cooking liquid in the slow cooker, then return the chicken to the pot, cover, and cook on high for an additional 5–10 minutes until the sauce thickens.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the vegetables onto plates, top with chicken thighs, and ladle over some of the delicious cooking liquid. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Tips and Variations

Choose the right chicken: Bone-in, skin-on thighs stay juicy and flavorful during long cooking. Boneless thighs can be used, but reduce cooking time by about an hour.
Searing is optional but recommended: While you can skip searing, browning the chicken adds depth and texture to the finished dish.
Vegetable swaps: Swap carrots and potatoes for other root vegetables (parsnips, sweet potatoes), mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Make-ahead magic: Assemble the slow cooker the night before, refrigerate, and start cooking in the morning for an easy dinner.
Keep it warm: The slow cooker’s “warm” setting keeps food ready for up to 3 hours—perfect for busy schedules.

Nutrition and Serving Suggestions

This dish is high in protein and packed with vitamins from the vegetables. Pair it with a crisp green salad, crusty bread, or a simple green vegetable for a well-rounded meal. To make it heartier, serve over cooked rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles to soak up the savory juices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and cook a bit faster—about 3–4 hours on low. The flavor will be a bit leaner without the skin, but the chicken will still be tender.

Do I need to sear the chicken first?

Searing is optional but highly recommended. It adds flavor, color, and texture to the finished dish. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the chicken thigh registers 165°F. The vegetables should also be fork-tender.

Can I make this dish ahead?

Yes, assemble the slow cooker the night before, refrigerate, and start cooking in the morning. Cooking time may increase slightly if starting with cold ingredients.

Can I use frozen chicken thighs?

It’s not recommended. Fresh or fully thawed chicken will cook more evenly and safely.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but make sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold the ingredients without overcrowding. Overcrowding can affect cooking time and texture.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist.

Takeaway

This slow cooker chicken thighs with veggies recipe is a true one-pot wonder—simple enough for beginners, satisfying enough for seasoned home cooks, and versatile enough for family dinners or casual gatherings. With rich, flavorful chicken, tender vegetables, and a savory sauce, it’s comfort food at its best.

Splash extra cooking liquid over each serving and garnish with parsley for a touch of freshness. Your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Wrap It Up

Discover how a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker can turn an ordinary weeknight into a comforting, delicious feast. This slow cooker chicken thighs recipe proves that gourmet flavor is within reach for everyone.

References

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete