Prepare to be delighted and surprised by this slow cooker rotisserie chicken thighs recipe. A simple and delectable dish, it's perfect for a cozy dinner at home. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the flavors to fully saturate the chicken thighs, giving them a tender, juicy, and aromatic finish.
The primary ingredient in this recipe is chicken thighs, which are widely available in most supermarkets. However, rotisserie chicken seasoning may not be a staple in every household. This is a pre-made mix of spices, often including garlic and onion powders, thyme, and oregano, created to mimic the flavor of store-bought rotisserie chickens. You can find it in the spice aisle of most grocery stores.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs: These are the star of the dish. The dark meat of chicken thighs remains juicy and tender during the slow-cooking process.
Rotisserie chicken seasoning: This spice blend gives the chicken its distinctive rotisserie flavor. If you can't find it, you could make your own by mixing common spices.
Vegetable oil: This is used to help the seasoning adhere to the chicken and also aids in the slow cooking process.
One reader, Barclay Freeland says:
This slow cooker rotisserie chicken thighs recipe is a game-changer! The chicken turns out incredibly tender and flavorful, and the seasoning is just perfect. It's so convenient to prepare and the aroma while it cooks is mouthwatering. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delicious and hassle-free meal.
Cooking Techniques for Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken Thighs
How to season the chicken thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and then coat them evenly with the rotisserie chicken seasoning. This will ensure that the seasoning sticks to the chicken and flavors it throughout the cooking process.
How to arrange the chicken thighs in the slow cooker: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the slow cooker in a single layer, with the skin side facing up. This will help the chicken cook evenly and allow the skin to become crispy.
How to cook the chicken thighs in the slow cooker: Set the slow cooker to the low setting and cook the chicken thighs for 7 hours. Cooking them on low heat for an extended period will result in tender, juicy chicken with flavorful seasoning.
How To Make Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken Thighs
You only need 5 minutes to prep this rotisserie chicken thighs dish, that is slow cooked to yield tender and juicy chicken thighs in time for dinner!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 8chicken thighs,skin and bone on
- 2tbsp*rotisserie chicken seasoning,(see Recipe Notes below for recipe)
- 1tbspvegetable oil
Instructions
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Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and coat with oil. Cover evenly with Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning.
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Arrange the chicken thighs in the slow cooker in a single layer, skin side up.
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Cook on Low for 7 hours.
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Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
Check out this Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning Recipe to go with this dish!
Nutrition
- Calories: 590.63kcal
- Fat: 45.12g
- Saturated Fat: 11.80g
- Trans Fat: 0.24g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 19.54g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.32g
- Carbohydrates: 0.77g
- Fiber: 0.10g
- Sugar: 0.03g
- Protein: 42.56g
- Cholesterol: 252.19mg
- Sodium: 334.65mg
- Calcium: 18.01mg
- Potassium: 524.96mg
- Iron: 1.75mg
- Vitamin A: 59.19µg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken Thighs
To ensure that your chicken thighs are cooked evenly and thoroughly, it's important to arrange them in a single layer in the slow cooker. Overlapping or stacking the chicken can result in uneven cooking. Also, placing the chicken skin side up allows the skin to get a bit crispy, similar to a rotisserie-style chicken. Remember, slow and steady wins the race in slow cooking, so resist the temptation to crank up the heat or shorten the cooking time.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe
Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken thighs the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat, saving time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-mixed seasoning: Opt for pre-mixed rotisserie chicken seasoning to save time on measuring and mixing individual spices.
Set and forget: Utilize a slow cooker with a timer function to ensure the chicken thighs cook perfectly without needing constant attention.
Double batch: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra cooked chicken thighs for future quick and easy meals.
Invest in a meat thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken thighs are cooked to perfection without the need for constant checking.
Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken Thighs Recipe
chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken drumsticks: Chicken drumsticks are a great substitute for chicken thighs in slow cooker recipes as they have a similar flavor and texture, and they hold up well to long cooking times.
rotisserie chicken seasoning - Substitute with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs: You can create a homemade rotisserie seasoning blend by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs such as thyme, oregano, and rosemary for a flavorful alternative.
Presentation Ideas for Serving Rotisserie Chicken Thighs
Elevate the plating: Arrange the slow-cooked chicken thighs in a circular pattern on a large, white, oval-shaped plate. Ensure that each thigh is placed with precision and care, creating a visually appealing display.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped parsley over the chicken thighs. This adds a pop of vibrant green color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Drizzle with a reduction: Create a balsamic glaze reduction and carefully drizzle it in an artistic manner around the chicken thighs, adding a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
Add a side of roasted vegetables: Serve the slow-cooked rotisserie chicken thighs alongside a medley of colorful roasted vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, arranged in an aesthetically pleasing manner.
Incorporate a decorative element: Place a small, edible flower or a delicate microgreen on top of the chicken thighs to introduce a visually striking and elegant touch to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe
Slow cooker: A slow cooker is a countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering, which allows for the easy preparation of slow-cooked meals.
Paper towels: Paper towels are absorbent disposable towels used for cleaning and drying various surfaces in the kitchen.
Vegetable oil: Vegetable oil is a neutral-flavored oil derived from various plants, commonly used for cooking and frying.
Rotisserie chicken seasoning: Rotisserie chicken seasoning is a blend of herbs and spices designed to replicate the flavor of rotisserie chicken, typically including ingredients like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Leftover Chicken Thighs
Let the chicken thighs cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or ziplock bag. This will prevent condensation from forming and keep the chicken fresh for longer.
If you plan to consume the leftover rotisserie chicken within 3-4 days, store it in the refrigerator. It will maintain its quality and flavor during this time.
For longer storage, freeze the cooled chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn.
When freezing, consider portioning the chicken into individual servings or meal-sized quantities. This allows you to thaw only what you need, making meal prep more convenient.
To further prevent freezer burn, wrap each chicken thigh in plastic wrap before placing it in the storage container or bag. This extra layer of protection helps maintain the quality of the meat.
Label the container or bag with the date of freezing and the contents. Rotisserie chicken thighs can be stored in the freezer for up to 4 months.
To thaw frozen chicken thighs, transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and let them defrost overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this can promote bacterial growth.
Once thawed, consume the chicken within 2 days and reheat it thoroughly before serving. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
How To Reheat Leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs
Here are the best methods for reheating leftover slow cooker rotisserie chicken thighs:
Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Loosely cover the chicken with another piece of foil to prevent drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the skin.
Microwave method: Place the chicken thighs on a microwave-safe plate. Cover the plate with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become rubbery.
Stovetop method: Heat a tablespoon of oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin side down. Cover the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the skin is crispy. Flip the chicken and continue cooking, covered, for another 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
Air fryer method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the skin is crispy.
Slow cooker method: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken seasoning, sprinkle a little over the chicken thighs. Place the chicken in the slow cooker and cook on low for 1-2 hours, or until heated through. This method is perfect for keeping the chicken moist and tender.
Interesting Trivia About Rotisserie Chicken Thighs
Rotisserie chicken seasoning is a versatile blend of herbs and spices, typically including paprika, garlic, onion, and other savory flavors. It adds a delicious depth of flavor to the chicken thighs, giving them that classic rotisserie taste without the need for a rotisserie oven.
Is Making Rotisserie Chicken Thighs at Home Cost-Effective?
This slow cooker rotisserie chicken thighs recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The use of chicken thighs is budget-friendly, and the slow cooking method ensures tender, flavorful results. The seasoning adds depth without requiring expensive ingredients. Overall, this recipe rates a solid 9 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it an affordable and satisfying meal option.
Is This Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This slow cooker rotisserie chicken thighs recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, as it eliminates the need for deep frying. However, there are still some aspects that could be improved to make it even healthier:
- The recipe calls for vegetable oil, which is often high in saturated and trans fats. These types of fats can contribute to heart disease and other health issues.
- Rotisserie chicken seasoning may contain high amounts of sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems when consumed in excess.
- While chicken thighs are a good source of protein, they are also higher in fat compared to leaner cuts like chicken breast.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the vegetable oil with a healthier alternative, such as olive oil or avocado oil, which are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Opt for a low-sodium rotisserie chicken seasoning or create your own blend using herbs and spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. This allows you to control the amount of salt in the dish.
- Remove the skin from the chicken thighs to reduce the overall fat content. While this may result in a slightly less crispy exterior, it will significantly lower the saturated fat content.
- Serve the chicken thighs with a side of nutrient-dense vegetables, such as roasted broccoli, carrots, or a fresh salad, to increase the overall nutritional value of the meal.
- Consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts for a leaner protein option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken remains moist and tender.
Editor's Opinion on Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken Thighs
This slow cooker rotisserie chicken thighs recipe is a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken. The seasoning and slow cooking process infuse the meat with rich, savory flavors, and the result is a delicious and satisfying dish. The simplicity of the recipe makes it perfect for busy days, and the aroma that fills the kitchen as it cooks is simply irresistible. Whether served with a side of vegetables or incorporated into other dishes, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
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Why trust this Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken Thighs Recipe:
This slow cooker rotisserie chicken thighs recipe guarantees succulent, flavorful results. The chicken thighs are generously seasoned with a special blend of rotisserie chicken seasoning, ensuring a mouthwatering taste. The slow cooking process allows the seasoning to infuse into the meat, creating a tender and juicy texture. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe offers convenience and deliciousness. Trust the combination of chicken, seasoning, and slow cooking to deliver a delightful dining experience.
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