Ingredients
Scale
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (you can substitute with boneless breasts if preferred, but thighs stay juicier)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream (for a richer gravy, use cream)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for a gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and rosemary. Mama Lou always said seasoning well at the start is key to a flavorful dish.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken thighs skin-side down first until golden and crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and brown the other side for 3-4 minutes. This step adds depth and texture to the final dish.
- Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onions until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux. This will thicken your gravy beautifully—just like Mama Lou taught me.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Let it simmer for a minute or two until the gravy starts to thicken slightly.
- Transfer the onion, garlic, and gravy mixture to the crockpot. Nestle the browned chicken thighs into the gravy, skin side up.
- Pour the milk or cream over the chicken and cover the crockpot with its lid.
- Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and the gravy thickened to a luscious consistency.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like a little brightness on the plate.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
