If you're searching for a mouthwatering, hassle-free dinner that will impress your family and friends, look no further! This Slow Cooker Mustard Thyme Chicken is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a dish bursting with flavor. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a slow cooker doing all the work, you can enjoy tender, juicy chicken thighs infused with the zesty kick of Dijon mustard and the aromatic essence of fresh thyme. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to be a hit at the dinner table!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps ensure better seasoning and browning.
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides, creating an even coating.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, chopped fresh thyme, and chicken broth until well combined, creating a flavorful marinade.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Pour the mustard and thyme mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is well-coated with the sauce.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat, allowing the chicken to cook slowly for 6 hours. This long, slow cooking process will help tenderize the meat and develop rich flavors.
- After 6 hours, check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs with a meat thermometer. It should read at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- Optional: For a crispy exterior, transfer the cooked chicken thighs to a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes until the skin becomes golden and slightly crisp.
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful meat.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh thyme sprigs if desired, and pair with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Tips
- Prep the Chicken Properly: Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for better seasoning and achieving a nice browning if you choose to broil them later.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! A good seasoning on both sides of the chicken thighs enhances the flavor and helps create a delicious crust.
- Mix the Marinade Well: When whisking together the Dijon mustard, fresh thyme, and chicken broth, make sure they are fully combined for an even distribution of flavor over the chicken.
- Single Layer Cooking: Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the slow cooker. This ensures that they cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors from the marinade.
- Check the Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Crispy Finish (Optional): For an extra touch, broil the cooked chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes after slow cooking. This gives them a delightful golden crispiness that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in moist and flavorful chicken.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve your Slow Cooker Mustard Thyme Chicken with sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 125mg
