Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds! This incredibly easy Crockpot Chicken and Sauce recipe is about to become your new go-to meal for busy weeknights and lazy weekends alike. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that's bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters. Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of perfectly tender chicken simmering in rich marinara sauce – pure culinary magic is about to happen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Chop the onion into medium-sized pieces and mince the garlic cloves. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can sauté the onions and garlic in a skillet with a little olive oil for 2-3 minutes before adding to the crockpot.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the bottom of the crockpot in a single layer. Try not to overlap the pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Sprinkle the chopped onions and minced garlic evenly over the chicken thighs.
- Pour the entire jar of marinara sauce over the chicken and onions, making sure to cover the chicken pieces completely.
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and set to cook on low heat for 6 hours. The slow, low-temperature cooking will help tenderize the chicken and allow the flavors to meld together.
- After 6 hours, check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Using two forks, gently shred the chicken in the sauce or leave whole, depending on your preference.
- Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread. The dish can be garnished with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure better flavor absorption and prevent excess moisture.
- For enhanced flavor, consider briefly sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot. This step caramelizes them slightly and deepens their taste profile.
- Avoid overcrowding the crockpot – arrange chicken in a single layer for even cooking and maximum flavor distribution.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For a lighter version, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs, but thighs tend to be more flavorful and tender with slow cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making this an excellent meal prep option.
- For added variety, experiment with different marinara sauces or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 112kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 45mg
