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Slow Cooker Aunt's Saturday Thighs

Tender, juicy chicken thighs slow-cooked in a sweet and savory glaze of ketchup, brown sugar, and soy sauce for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for family or guests.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time4 hours
Total Time9 hours 10 minutes
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 320kcal
Author: Samantha Jones

Ingredients

  • 3 to 4 pounds frozen bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (about 6-8 thighs)
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder

Instructions

  • Place the frozen bone-in skin-on chicken thighs in an even layer at the bottom of a 5- to 7-quart slow cooker.
  • In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, low-sodium soy sauce, and garlic powder until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  • Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the frozen chicken thighs, ensuring that every piece gets coated.
  • Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours or on LOW for 7 to 8 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Approximately halfway through the cooking time, carefully remove the lid and spoon some of the sauce over the tops of the chicken thighs to enhance flavor and moisture.
  • Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the lid and cook on HIGH for an additional 15 to 20 minutes with the lid vented or slightly ajar to allow the sauce to thicken.

Notes

The chicken can be used frozen, which adds to the convenience of this recipe.
Serving with white rice or crusty bread enhances the meal.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.