This Crock Pot Turkey Thighs recipe is a tender and flavorful option, which uses bone-in turkey thighs and cracked black pepper. It’s a straightforward recipe, ready in about 7 hours and 5 minutes.
Crock Pot Turkey Thighs Ingredients
- 4 turkey thighs, skin and bone on
- Kosher salt
- Cracked black pepper
How To Make Crock Pot Turkey Thighs
- Season the turkey: Sprinkle each turkey thigh with about ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste.
- Add to slow cooker: Place the turkey thighs skin side up in the crock pot.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 7 hours without adding any liquid.
- Optional crisping: If the skin isn’t crispy, broil for 1–2 minutes or crack the lid open for the last hour to let steam escape.

Recipe Tips
- Do I need to add any liquid?
No, the turkey releases its own juices—no added liquid needed. - Can I use boneless turkey thighs?
Yes, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly. - How to make the skin crispy:
Broil for 1–2 minutes after slow cooking or leave the lid slightly ajar during the last hour. - What seasonings can I add?
Try garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary for extra flavor. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, as long as your slow cooker has enough room.
What To Serve With Turkey Thighs
These juicy turkey thighs go great with classic sides:
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Green beans with garlic
- Cranberry sauce
- Cornbread or dinner rolls
How To Store Turkey Thighs
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze cooked and cooled turkey for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Turkey Thighs Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 178kcal
- Protein: 21g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 495mg
- Potassium: 273mg
- Calcium: 9mg
- Iron: 1.7mg
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Do I have to remove the skin before cooking?
No, the skin adds flavor and protects the meat while cooking.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Low is preferred for tenderness, but you can try high for 3.5–4 hours.
Why is there so much liquid in the pot?
The turkey naturally releases juices as it cooks—no need to drain unless desired.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Yes, carrots, onions, and potatoes can cook alongside the turkey.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and fits well into a keto or low-carb diet.
Try More Recipes:
- Crock Pot Turkey Tetrazzini
- Crock Pot Turkey Sweet Potato Chili Recipe
- Crock Pot Turkey Stroganoff Recipe
Crock Pot Turkey Thighs
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings5
minutes7
hours178
kcalJuicy, fall-off-the-bone turkey thighs made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
Ingredients
4 turkey thighs, skin and bone on
Kosher salt
Cracked black pepper
Directions
- Season turkey thighs with about ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper each.
- Place them skin side up in the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 7 hours, covered, with no added liquids.
- For crispier skin, broil for 1–2 minutes or slightly open the lid for the last hour.
