Savory Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs Recipe
Looking for a meal that’s both savory and sweet? You’ve come to the right place! My Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs will make your taste buds dance. With just a few simple steps, you can prepare a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for busy nights. Plus, I’ll share easy tips for flavorful chicken and even some tasty variations. Trust me; this is a recipe you won’t want to miss!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 6 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
– 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also swap maple syrup with honey for a different sweet flavor. If you want less fat, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. This option still turns out juicy and tasty. For a unique twist, try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme.
Nutritional Information per Serving
Each serving includes approximately:
– Calories: 370
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 28g
– Fat: 16g
– Fiber: 1g
– Sugar: 12g
This meal is rich in protein and has a nice balance of sweet and savory flavors. It’s a great choice for a healthy dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Marinade
To start, grab a mixing bowl. Add the following ingredients:
– 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Whisk these ingredients together until smooth. The goal is to mix flavors well. The sweet maple and tangy mustard create a great base.
Arranging Chicken Thighs in the Slow Cooker
Now, take your slow cooker. Place 6 chicken thighs inside, skin-side up. This helps make the skin crispy. Make sure the thighs fit snugly but are not crowded. This allows for even cooking.
Next, pour the marinade over the chicken. Be sure each piece is well coated. This step is key for flavor.
Cooking Times and Temperature Settings
Cover the slow cooker tightly with its lid. Set the cooker to “Low” for 6-7 hours or “High” for 3-4 hours. Check the chicken’s temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat. When finished, the chicken will be tender and juicy.
Transfer the chicken to a serving plate using tongs. For extra flavor, you can thicken the remaining sauce. Simply simmer it in a saucepan for about 5-7 minutes. Pour this sauce over the chicken before serving. Enjoy this savory dish!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve Crispy Skin
To get crispy skin on your chicken thighs, start with skin-on pieces. This keeps the moisture in while cooking. Place the thighs skin-side up in the slow cooker. If you want extra crispiness, you can sear them in a hot pan before slow cooking. Just cook them for a few minutes on each side. This helps to get that nice golden color.
Ensuring Maximum Flavor Infusion
For the best flavor, coat the chicken well with the maple Dijon mixture. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking. The longer it sits, the more the flavors blend. If you can, let it marinate overnight in the fridge. This allows the garlic and spices to really soak in. Also, make sure to pour any leftover sauce over the chicken before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Pairing
These chicken thighs pair great with rice or mashed potatoes. The rich sauce complements the creamy texture of both. You can also serve it with a side of green beans or a fresh salad. For extra flair, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish. Enjoy!
Variations
Adding Vegetables for One-Pot Meal
You can make this dish even better by adding vegetables. Carrots, potatoes, and green beans work great. Simply chop your veggies into bite-sized pieces. Add them to the slow cooker with the chicken. They will soak up the tasty sauce as they cook. Plus, you’ll have a complete meal!
Alternative Sweeteners
If you want a different flavor, try using honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup. Each sweetener brings its own twist. Honey adds a floral note, while agave gives a mild sweetness. Adjust the amount to your taste. You might find a new favorite!
Spices to Enhance Flavor
Boost the flavor by adding spices. Rosemary works well with chicken and adds a fresh taste. Garlic powder gives a nice kick, enhancing the savory profile. You can also try a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat. Mix and match spices to find your perfect blend!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, let the chicken cool down. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you can’t finish it, don’t worry! This dish stores well and keeps its flavor.
Reheating Tips for Best Results
To reheat, use the microwave or oven. If using the microwave, cover the chicken with a damp paper towel. This keeps it moist. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes.
Freezing Chicken Thighs for Later
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the chicken cool completely. Then, wrap each thigh tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They will cook faster than bone-in thighs. Adjust cooking time to about 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. The flavor will still shine through, but you may miss some of that rich, juicy texture from the bones.
What’s the best way to know when chicken is done?
The best way to check if the chicken is done is with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, check that the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.
Can I cook this on a stovetop instead?
Yes, you can cook this recipe on the stovetop. Start by searing the chicken thighs in a pan for extra flavor. Then, add the maple Dijon mixture and cover. Simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes. Make sure to check the chicken’s internal temperature to ensure it is fully cooked.
This article covered everything you need to know for a great chicken dish. We went through the ingredients, tips for cooking, and ways to make it your own. You learned about storage and how to reheat your leftovers. Remember, you can swap ingredients to fit your needs. Follow these steps, and you will enjoy a tasty meal. Keep experimenting with flavors, textures, and servings. Happy cooking!
![To make this dish, gather these key ingredients: - 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs - 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste) - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 1 tablespoon honey - 1 teaspoon sesame oil - 1 garlic clove, finely minced - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated - 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown) - 1 cup Napa cabbage, shredded - 1 medium carrot, julienned - 2 green onions, finely chopped - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste These ingredients create a bold and tasty flavor. The chicken absorbs the gochujang and other sauces, making each bite delicious. The fresh veggies add crunch and color. You can add more fun flavors with these optional items: - Kimchi for a tangy kick - Sliced cucumbers for freshness - Avocado for creaminess - Extra sesame seeds for crunch - More green onions for a pop of color Feel free to mix and match these extras. They add depth and make your bowl even more exciting. To prepare this dish, you will need: - A medium bowl for marinating - A grill pan or heavy skillet for cooking - A cutting board and knife for chopping - Measuring spoons for accuracy - A serving bowl to assemble your dish Having the right tools makes cooking easier. You’ll enjoy making this meal even more when you have everything at hand. Check out the Full Recipe for detailed steps! To start, you need a good marinade for the chicken. In a medium bowl, mix the gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk this mixture until it feels smooth. Now, add the chicken thighs. Make sure to coat them well with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. For richer flavor, you can marinate for up to 4 hours. Next, it’s time to cook the chicken. Preheat a grill pan or a heavy skillet on medium-high heat. When it gets hot, place the marinated chicken in the pan. Avoid crowding the pan. Cook each side for about 6 to 7 minutes. You want the chicken to be golden-brown and fully cooked. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, take the chicken out and let it rest for a few minutes. After resting, slice it into bite-sized pieces. While the chicken rests, let’s focus on the veggies. In the same pan, add a splash of oil if needed. Sauté the shredded Napa cabbage and julienned carrot for about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir them occasionally. You want them to be tender but still a bit crunchy. Lightly season with salt and black pepper to taste. Now it's time to put everything together. In a large serving bowl, start with a base of cooked rice. Layer the sautéed cabbage and carrots on top. Then, arrange the sliced grilled chicken over the vegetables. For the final touch, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top. If you like it spicy, drizzle some extra gochujang on top. Enjoy your Easy Korean BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl! For the full recipe, check out the details above. Marinating chicken adds flavor and keeps it moist. Always use a mix of gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Make sure to coat the chicken well. Cover the bowl and chill it in the fridge. Aim for at least 30 minutes. For a deeper taste, marinate for up to 4 hours. This extra time allows the flavors to soak in nicely. The right rice texture makes your bowl special. For this recipe, use either white or brown rice. Rinse the rice under cold water before cooking. This step removes excess starch and prevents stickiness. Cook the rice according to package instructions. Fluff it with a fork after cooking. This keeps the grains separate and light, perfect for a rice bowl. A beautiful bowl makes any meal more inviting. Use deep, colorful dishes for a striking look. Start with a base of rice, then layer on the veggies and chicken. Arrange the chicken slices neatly for a great visual. Finish with green onions and sesame seeds on top. You could also add small bowls of sauces for a fun touch. Use chopsticks to enhance the Korean BBQ feel. {{image_4}} You can swap chicken for other proteins. Try using pork, beef, or shrimp. Each option adds a new taste. If you choose beef, flank steak works well. For shrimp, use large, peeled ones. Just adjust cooking times as needed. You can easily make this dish vegan or vegetarian. Instead of chicken, use tofu or tempeh. Marinate them just like the chicken. For a twist, add marinated mushrooms for extra flavor. You can also use seitan for a meaty texture. Feel free to get creative with your veggies. You can use bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini. Just chop them up and sauté them along with the cabbage and carrots. This way, your rice bowl stays colorful and fresh. Add your favorite greens for extra nutrition. After enjoying your Easy Korean BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl, store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep the chicken and veggies separate from the rice. This method helps keep everything fresh and tasty. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the chicken and veggies together. The rice can be stored separately. To reheat, use a microwave or skillet. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken. You can add a splash of water to help keep moisture. If using a skillet, add a little oil and heat on low until warmed. This method helps maintain the chicken's juicy texture and the veggies' crunch. For meal prep, freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. This way, the flavors blend better. Place the chicken in a freezer bag and remove as much air as possible. You can freeze the sautéed veggies too. When ready to cook, thaw everything overnight in the fridge. This ensures your meal is quick and easy, with great taste. For the Full Recipe, be sure to check the instructions again before cooking! Yes, you can use chicken breast. Chicken breast cooks faster and is leaner. Just remember that it can dry out more easily than thighs. To keep it juicy, don’t overcook it. Adjust cooking time to about 5-6 minutes per side. If you need a substitute for gochujang, try miso paste mixed with a bit of chili powder. This mix gives a similar depth of flavor. You can also use sriracha for heat, but it won’t have the same sweetness. To add more spice, mix in extra gochujang. You can also add sliced fresh chilies or a dash of red pepper flakes. Adjust the heat to your liking. Remember, it’s easier to add spice than to take it away. Yes, you can prepare the chicken and veggies ahead of time. Marinate the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 4 hours. Cook the chicken and veggies just before serving for the best flavor. For a full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. This blog post covered everything you need for an Easy Korean BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl. We explored essential and optional ingredients, plus equipment needed for cooking. I shared clear steps for marinating and cooking the chicken, sautéing veggies, and tips for perfect rice. We also looked at tasty variations and smart storage options. Ultimately, this dish is flexible and fun to make. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and keep your meals exciting!](https://fastmealmate.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/632ec05d-af1e-4ba2-bf58-6505b43008ee-768x768.webp)
