This easy crock pot chicken with garlic and onion is one of my go-to dinners, especially on busy days with toddlers or a new baby. Some nights you just want something simple that can be prepped ahead and left to cook — this basic slow-cooker chicken fits the bill. I like to serve it with Amish style mashed potatoes or rice, and a little Chick-fil-A sauce on the side is always a hit. The cooking liquid makes a flavorful broth you can use for gravy if serving mashed potatoes or rice. Below the recipe are a few ideas for flavor variations.
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Super easy crockpot chicken
marilynpeight
Pin Recipe
5
3
Main Course
American
5
Ingredients
-
4-5
chicken thighs or legs
(bone in) -
2
cups
water -
2
garlic cloves
minced or thinly sliced -
1/2
cup
onion
diced -
1/4
teaspoon
salt -
season all (Lawry’s salt)
to taste -
garlic powder
optional -
chili powder
optional, to taste
Instructions
-
Place the chicken in the crock pot and add the water. (Note: if you don’t plan to make gravy with the broth, use 1 cup of water instead of 2.) Season the chicken to taste with salt and Season-All, then add the garlic and diced onion.
-
Cook on high for 4 1/2 to 5 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh or leg reads 165°F. Cooking times vary by crock pot model and size.
Notes
Chicken, Easy, Basic, Crockpot, Slow Cooker
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Equipment needed for this basic crockpot chicken:
- Crockpot — a smaller 2.5–4 quart crockpot works well; cooking times may vary with size.
- Cutting board — useful for chopping onion and garlic and keeping your counter tidy.
- Chef’s knife — a good, sharp knife makes dicing and mincing quick and easy.
- Meat thermometer — recommended to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F; I prefer a digital waterproof model for easy cleaning.
Try this chicken with bacon and cheddar green beans and Ultimate Mashed Potatoes for a complete meal.
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Step 1: Place the chicken in the crock pot and add the water. (If you don’t plan to make gravy with the broth, use 1 cup of water instead of 2.) Season to taste, then add the garlic and diced onion.
Chicken, onion, garlic and seasoning — quick and minimal prep for an easy, comforting meal.
Step 2: Cook on high for 4 1/2–5 hours, or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F in the thickest part of the meat. Adjust time as needed based on your crock pot.
Flavor variations:
Try Cajun seasoning or Old Bay, lemon pepper combined with Season-All, or any of your favorite chicken spice blends. Omit garlic if you prefer a milder flavor.
Do I need a meat thermometer?
Yes — a meat thermometer is the safest, easiest way to check doneness. I used to test with a fork, but a digital thermometer gives a reliable reading quickly and prevents overcooking. A waterproof digital model is convenient for cleaning.
Serve the chicken with cheddar green beans and Amish style mashed potatoes for a family-friendly dinner. If you make this recipe, I’d love to see your photos — comment below or tag me on Instagram to be featured.
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