Ingredients
- 6–8 chicken thighs (boneless or bone-in)
- 2 cups tomato sauce or marinara
Optional add-ons:
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper
- Chili flakes for a little heat
Step-by-Step Crockpot Cooking Instructions
Start by lightly greasing your slow cooker or using a liner. This makes cleanup much easier later, especially if you’re meal prepping for the week.
Place the chicken thighs in an even layer at the bottom of the crockpot. Try not to stack them too tightly, as even spacing helps them cook more evenly.
Pour the tomato sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated. If you’re adding optional seasoning, sprinkle it over the top now.
Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for about 3–4 hours. Cooking on low tends to produce the most tender texture, especially for shredding.
Once the chicken is fully cooked, use tongs to gently move the pieces around so they soak up the sauce. At this point, you can leave the thighs whole or shred them with two forks directly in the crockpot.
If you prefer slightly crispy edges, transfer the cooked chicken to an air fryer for a few minutes before serving. This creates a delicious contrast between the tender inside and lightly crisp exterior.
Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables depending on your preferences.
Variations
Keto Version
To make this recipe keto-friendly, choose a tomato sauce without added sugar and keep the seasoning simple. Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or sautéed spinach instead of traditional grains.
Low-Carb Version
For a low-carb dinner, pair the chicken with roasted broccoli, zucchini noodles, or a fresh green salad. The sauce adds plenty of flavor, so you won’t miss heavier sides.
High-Protein Version
If your goal is maximizing protein, use skinless boneless thighs or even a mix of thighs and chicken breasts. Shred the meat and portion it into meal prep containers with steamed vegetables for an easy high-protein lunch throughout the week.
Vegetable Add-Ins
This recipe is also a great way to use up vegetables you already have. Bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, or spinach can be added during the last hour of cooking. Root vegetables like carrots or potatoes can go in at the beginning since they need more time to soften.
Storage, Freezer, and Meal Prep Tips
One of the best things about this crockpot chicken is how well it stores. Once cooled, transfer leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavor often deepens overnight, making it perfect for next-day lunches.
For freezer storage, portion the cooked chicken and sauce into freezer-safe bags or containers. Lay bags flat to save space and make thawing faster. It can be frozen for up to three months.
When reheating, add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave to prevent the chicken from drying out.
If you’re planning easy meal prep, divide the chicken into individual containers with vegetables or grains so you can grab a complete meal during busy weekdays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken thighs in the crockpot?
For food safety, it’s best to thaw chicken first. Starting with fully thawed meat ensures even cooking and helps the chicken reach a safe internal temperature more quickly.
Do I need to add extra liquid?
Usually, no. Chicken releases its own juices as it cooks, and the tomato sauce provides enough moisture. Adding extra water can make the sauce too thin.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
If the sauce seems watery at the end of cooking, remove the lid and cook on HIGH for another 20–30 minutes. You can also shred the chicken and let it simmer uncovered so the sauce reduces naturally.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely. Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a spicy marinara sauce to bring more heat. Adjust gradually so you don’t overpower the dish.
What’s the best way to serve this chicken?
It’s incredibly versatile. Serve it over pasta for a comforting dinner, tuck it into wraps, pile it onto baked potatoes, or use it as a topping for grain bowls and salads.
A Friendly Final Note
Simple recipes like this remind me that good food doesn’t have to be complicated to feel satisfying. Some of the most comforting meals come from a handful of ingredients and a little patience while the slow cooker does its thing. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping lunches for the week, or just trying to make dinner easier, this high-protein crockpot chicken has a way of fitting into real life without stress.
If you try it, don’t be afraid to make it your own. Add your favorite spices, toss in extra vegetables, or crisp it up in the air fryer for a different texture. Cooking at home should feel flexible and forgiving, and recipes like this are a reminder that sometimes the simplest dishes are the ones you come back to again and again.