Chicken thighs should be cooked in a slow cooker on low for about 4 to 6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This timing ensures they become juicy, tender, and fully cooked. Some recipes suggest 5 to 6 hours on low for bone-in thighs, while boneless thighs may cook slightly faster, around 4 to 5 hours on low.
Key Points:
- Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Bone-in skin-on thighs usually take about 5 to 6 hours.
- Boneless thighs can cook in about 4 to 5 hours.
- Optionally, sear the thighs before slow cooking for added flavor.
- Cooking on high usually takes about 3 hours, but low is preferred for better tenderness and flavor.
This is consistent across several popular slow cooker chicken thigh recipes and expert recommendations.
