Crockpot Sun-Dried Tomato Garlic Chicken Thighs Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a more concentrated sauce, remove the chicken once cooked and keep it warm, then simmer the remaining liquid in the slow cooker on a high setting or transfer it to a saucepan for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. This simple step can add a professional finish to the dish. Additionally, serving the chicken over a bed of pasta or steamed rice helps to soak up the flavorful sauce, making the meal even more satisfying.

If you prefer a brighter flavor profile, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice added just before serving can cut through the richness of the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic. The acidity of the lemon balances the savory notes of the chicken and herbs perfectly. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can be added during the seasoning step to introduce a subtle, warming spice that complements the other ingredients without overpowering the dish.

Variations

• Mediterranean Olive Twist: Add 1/2 cup of pitted Kalamata olives during the seasoning phase for a salty, briny depth that pairs perfectly with the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic.
• Creamy Garlic Finish: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or softened cream cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking to create a rich, indulgent, and velvety sauce.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken is cooled to room temperature within 2 hours before refrigerating.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe, airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat or in the microwave until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), adding a splash of broth if needed.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When storing, ensure the chicken is completely submerged in the sauce to prevent it from drying out.

If you have a large amount of leftovers, divide them into smaller portions so they cool more quickly, which helps maintain the quality and safety of the food. Always check that the container is tightly sealed to prevent the absorption of other odors from the refrigerator, ensuring the dish remains fresh for later enjoyment.

This dish is excellent for meal prep as the flavors continue to develop while stored in the refrigerator. You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, keep it refrigerated, and then simply place it into the slow cooker base in the morning to start the cooking process.

This makes it a convenient option for busy days. Just remember to allow the insert to come to room temperature for a short time before heating to avoid potential damage from extreme temperature changes.

Serving ideas

Present the chicken on a warm platter, spooning the thickened sauce and sun-dried tomatoes generously over the top. The visual appeal of the vibrant tomatoes against the tender, cooked chicken makes for a welcoming presentation.

You can garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs if desired, though the flavor of the slow-cooked ingredients alone is quite robust. This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

For a complete dinner, consider serving the chicken alongside a light pasta, such as penne or fusilli, which holds the sauce well. The garlic and tomato-infused broth acts as a natural sauce for the pasta, creating a cohesive meal that feels balanced and comforting.

Alternatively, serve it over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes for a heartier experience. Regardless of the side, the focus should remain on the tender, flavorful chicken, allowing its natural qualities to shine as the centerpiece of the meal.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Crockpot Sun-Dried Tomato Garlic Chicken Thighs

Prep 5 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 10 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 6 pieces boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomato slices
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker insert, arranging them in a single layer. Scatter the sun-dried tomato slices evenly over the top of the chicken pieces.
2. Sprinkle the minced garlic and Italian seasoning over the chicken and tomatoes. Pour the chicken broth over the entire mixture, ensuring it covers the base of the slow cooker.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

28 g

Carbohydrates

9 g

Fat

19 g

Fiber

1.5 g

Sugar

4 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.