Crock Pot Turkey Thighs
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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

  1. Season the turkey: Sprinkle each turkey thigh with about ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste.
  2. Add to slow cooker: Place the turkey thighs skin side up in the crock pot.
  3. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 7 hours without adding any liquid.
  4. 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.
Crock Pot Turkey Thighs
Crock Pot Turkey Thighs

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.

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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.

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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.

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Crock Pot Turkey Thighs

Recipe by Robert Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

5

minutes
Cooking time

7

hours 
Calories

178

kcal

Juicy, 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.