Crockpot Chicken Thighs with Cabbage & Cauliflower Rice
Crockpot Chicken Thighs with Cabbage & Cauliflower Rice is a wholesome, flavorful dish that makes family dinners a breeze. With tender chicken thighs simmered to perfection and a medley of nutritious vegetables, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also ideal for meal prep. The slow-cooking method infuses the chicken with rich flavors while the cabbage and cauliflower rice add a healthy touch. This comforting meal is sure to satisfy everyone at the table, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (Low setting)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season the chicken thighs generously with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken thigh for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step is optional but adds great flavor.
- Place chopped cabbage, sliced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Pour in low-sodium chicken broth along with apple cider vinegar.
- Layer the seared (or raw) chicken thighs on top of the vegetable mixture.
- Cover your slow cooker and set it to Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours. The goal is to have tender chicken that is fully cooked through.
- About 30 minutes before serving time, stir in cauliflower rice directly into the crockpot. Allow it to cook until tender and absorb some of those delicious juices.
- Before serving, taste your dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed. A splash more vinegar can brighten up flavors nicely!
- Garnish servings with freshly chopped parsley for an extra pop of color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with vegetables (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg