Bone-In Chicken Crockpot Recipes: Easy & Delicious Meals

Chicken is a beloved staple in kitchens across the globe, known for its versatility and delicious outcomes when prepared well. One cooking method that enhances chicken flavors while keeping the preparation simple is using a Crock-Pot, also known as a slow cooker. The beauty of cooking bone-in chicken in a Crock-Pot lies in the depth of flavor achieved from the marrow, and how it effortlessly keeps the meat tender and moist. In this blog post, we will explore several easy and delicious bone-in chicken Crockpot recipes that promise to deliver both flavor and convenience to your dining table.

Why Bone-In Chicken?

Before we dive into the recipes, let's quickly understand why cooking bone-in chicken in a slow cooker is advantageous:

• Flavor: The bones release a wealth of flavor into the dish as it cooks.
• Moisture: Bone-in meat often retains moisture better than boneless cuts.
• Nutritional Value: Bones contain nutrients like calcium which can enrich your meals.
• Simplicity: It's a "set and forget" method, ideal for those busy days.

Recipe 1: Hearty Chicken Stew with Vegetables

This comforting dish is perfect for cooler days, delivering a warm hug in a bowl:

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a pan, season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, and sear them until golden brown.
2. Transfer the seared chicken to your Crock-Pot.
3. Add the chopped vegetables, garlic, thyme, and chicken broth into the slow cooker.
4. Set to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

🌟 Note: Searing the chicken beforehand adds an extra layer of flavor.

Recipe 2: BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

For a more playful take on chicken, BBQ drumsticks are always a crowd-pleaser:

Ingredients:

• 8-10 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the drumsticks with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Mix the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl.
3. Place the drumsticks in the Crock-Pot and pour the sauce mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
5. To crisp up the skin, broil the drumsticks for 5-10 minutes after cooking.

Recipe 3: Lemon Garlic Whole Chicken

Nothing beats the simplicity and elegance of a whole roasted chicken:

Ingredients:

• 1 whole small chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
• 1 lemon, halved
• 6 cloves garlic, peeled
• Fresh thyme or rosemary
• Salt and pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Rinse the chicken and pat dry. Season generously with salt and pepper inside and out.
2. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, garlic cloves, and a bunch of herbs.
3. Brush the outside with olive oil and set the chicken breast-side up in the Crock-Pot.
4. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

🌱 Note: Placing the chicken on a bed of carrots, onions, or potatoes can prevent it from sticking to the bottom.

Recipe 4: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs

This creamy and flavorful dish will transport you to the Mediterranean:

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 cup spinach leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a pan and sear the chicken thighs until browned on both sides. Transfer to the Crock-Pot.
2. In the same pan, sauté the onions until translucent, then add garlic and cook for a minute. Transfer this to the slow cooker.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

When preparing bone-in chicken in a Crock-Pot, you're opting for a hassle-free approach to cooking that not only enhances the flavor but also infuses your meal with natural juices from the bones. Here's a quick recap:

Each of these recipes showcases different techniques to make the most out of slow-cooking bone-in chicken, be it searing for added flavor, slow roasting for tenderness, or braising in flavorful liquids. The convenience of Crock-Pot cooking allows you to set up your meal in advance, freeing up time to spend on other activities or simply to relax.

Can I use frozen bone-in chicken in a Crock-Pot?

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Yes, you can cook frozen chicken in a slow cooker, but it takes longer and might not cook as evenly. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Is it safe to cook bone-in chicken on high for fewer hours?

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Yes, as long as the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), it’s safe. However, cooking on low tends to yield more tender results.

How do I prevent my Crock-Pot chicken from drying out?

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Keep the lid closed during cooking, use enough liquid, and avoid overcooking. Bone-in cuts generally stay moist, but always check the internal temperature.