Slow Cooker Million Dollar Chicken: A Luxurious and Flavorful Delight!

Are you searching for a meal that’s both decadent and effortless to prepare? Look no further than Slow Cooker Million Dollar Chicken! This indulgent dish features tender chicken thighs, rich buttery sauce, and a blend of savory spices that will tantalize your taste buds. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of creating this luxurious meal right in your slow cooker. From the ingredients list to step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and discover the sumptuous flavors of Slow Cooker Million Dollar Chicken!

Ingredients:

3 pounds of chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 teaspoons of kosher salt
1 teaspoon of black pepper
1/2 teaspoon of paprika
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
1/2 cup of unsalted butter (1 stick), sliced into pads
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1/4 cup of chicken broth, preferably homemade
1/4 cup of heavy cream
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup of chopped parsley for garnish
1 tablespoon cornstarch (if needed for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken:

In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Season the chicken thighs generously with the spice mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:

Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Scatter the sliced butter pads and minced garlic over the chicken.

3. Add Liquid Ingredients:

Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.

4. Cook:

Cover the slow cooker and cook the chicken on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

5. Add Cheese:

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the cooked chicken thighs during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking time, allowing it to melt and become gooey.

6. Thicken the Sauce (if needed):

If the sauce is too thin, mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker and cook on high heat for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until thickened.

7. Serve:

Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce is thickened, garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dishes.

Cook Notes and Variations:

Skinless Chicken Thighs: If you prefer, you can use skinless chicken thighs for a lighter option. However, keep in mind that the skin adds flavor and richness to the dish.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of paprika and garlic powder according to your taste preferences. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs? A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs. However, chicken breasts tend to cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from drying out.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ingredients in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply transfer everything to the slow cooker and follow the cooking instructions.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto:

Substitute Heavy Cream: Replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk to keep the dish keto-friendly.

Low-Carb:

Serve Over Cauliflower Rice: Instead of traditional rice or potatoes, serve the Million Dollar Chicken over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option that’s just as delicious.

Slow Cooker Million Dollar Chicken is the epitome of comfort food with its succulent chicken, velvety sauce, and cheesy topping. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a cozy meal, this recipe is sure to impress. With minimal effort required and maximum flavor guaranteed, it’s a win-win for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Give this recipe a try and savor the luxurious taste of Slow Cooker Million Dollar Chicken today!