Slow Cooker Million Dollar Chicken

Ingredients

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

Preparation

1. Season the chicken thighs thoroughly with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, ensuring even coverage. (Optional: Brown the chicken before placing it in the slow cooker for added depth of flavor.)
2. Place the seasoned chicken evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Top the chicken with butter slices and sprinkle minced garlic over the top.
4. Pour the chicken broth carefully over the chicken, ensuring not to wash off the seasonings.
5. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is extremely tender and nearly falling off the bone.
6. About 15 minutes before serving, gently stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese, allowing them to melt and integrate into the sauce.
7. For a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker. Let it cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
8. Before serving, garnish the dish with finely chopped parsley for a fresh and vibrant touch.

Alternate Options and Suggestions

Customize the recipe by adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

If you’re mindful of butter intake, you can reduce the amount by half without compromising comfort.

In the absence of heavy cream, milk can be used as a substitute, though it won’t provide the same richness.

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A robust Gruyère or spicy Pepper Jack can significantly enhance the dish’s flavor profile.