Allspice, Orange and Lemon Crockpot Chicken Thighs
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
3 hrs 30 mins
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Total Time
3 hrs 40 mins
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Servings
6
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Calories
300 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Allspice, Orange and Lemon Crockpot Chicken Thighs
Description
This recipe starts by seasoning chicken thighs with allspice and salt, then browning them in olive oil to develop a crisp skin and deepen flavor. The chicken is transferred to a slow cooker where orange juice, honey, lemon slices, and thyme sprigs are added. Slow cooking on high for 3 to 4 hours infuses the thighs with citrus brightness and the warm, slightly sweet aroma of allspice and honey, resulting in moist and tender meat.
The balance between the spiced allspice and tart orange and lemon juices enhances the chicken’s natural flavor. The slow cooker method ensures the juices mingle well while the meat remains juicy. Removing the skin before cooking can lighten the dish if preferred, and the initial browning step, while optional, adds texture and flavor.
This dish pairs well with fresh salads or simple vegetable sides to complement its citrus and spice profile. Serving it alongside potatoes or grains can round out the meal.
The recipe notes suggest variations in seasoning according to taste and mention pairing the dish with light vegetable sides for a balanced meal. Substituting cooking oil with spray can reduce calories in combination with skin removal from the chicken thighs.
Ingredients
Allspice Orange and Lemon Crockpot Chicken Thighs Ingredients List:
- 6 chicken thighs with the skin on, large
- 1 1/4 tsp allspice (divided)
- salt to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- orange juice 1 cup, juice of 2-3 oranges
- 1 tsp honey (or more, to taste)
- 1 lemon sliced
- 3 lices of orange
- 6 thyme sprigs
- black pepper ground
Instructions
Allspice Orange and Lemon Crockpot Chicken Thighs Cooking Instructions:
- Season the chicken with half the allspice and salt and heat the oil.
- Brown the chicken on all sides (for a total of about 6 minutes).
- Add chicken to your crockpot (if you are not already frying this in your slow cooker), followed by the rest of the ingredients, cover and cook on high for 3-4 hrs.
- Remove the crockpot chicken thighs from the slow cooker when done and serve warm.
Notes
- Removing the skin from chicken thighs before cooking makes for a leaner meal.
- Browning the chicken before slow cooking crisps skin and adds flavor but can be skipped if short on time.
- Adjust allspice and seasoning to your taste preferences.
- Serve with fresh vegetable salads or simple sides like mashed potatoes or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Using calorie-controlled cooking spray instead of olive oil lowers the dish's fat content.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 300 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 300kcal | 15% |
| Carbohydrates | 4g | 1% |
| Protein | 19g | 38% |
| Fat | 24g | 37% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Cholesterol | 111mg | 37% |
| Sodium | 88mg | 4% |
| Potassium | 263mg | 6% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 135IU | 3% |
| Vitamin C | 11.6mg | 13% |
| Calcium | 20mg | 2% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.