This Crockpot Italian Garlic Chicken features juicy, bone-in chicken legs seasoned with Italian herbs, slow-cooked with whole garlic cloves until melt-in-your-mouth tender. You can sear the chicken first to lock in flavor, then finished in the slow cooker where it absorbs a savory, buttery garlic sauce. A drizzle of golden pan juices over the top brings it all together for an irresistible bite.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Italian Garlic Chicken Recipe?
You’ll love this dish because it’s flavorful, effortless, and incredibly satisfying. The slow cooker does all the work while your kitchen fills with the aroma of garlic and herbs. The chicken turns out juicy and tender and the garlic softens into buttery cloves. It’s a cozy weeknight winner that pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Crockpot Italian Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
- 6 to 10 Chicken Legs (Skinless)
- 20 to 30 Garlic Cloves
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- ½ teaspoon Red Chili Flakes
- ⅓ cup Chicken Broth
- 3 tablespoon Olive Oil
Instructions
- Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin brown better and locks in flavor.
- Rub the chicken legs evenly with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red chili flakes. Let sit while you prep the next step.
- Brown the Chicken (Optional but Recommended):
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Sear the chicken legs for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This enhances flavor and texture.
- Pour the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the bottom of the crockpot.
- Place the browned (or raw) chicken legs into the crockpot.
- Add all the garlic cloves, tucking them between the chicken pieces.
- Pour in the chicken broth around the sides of the pot, not directly on top of the chicken so you don’t rinse off the seasoning.
- Cover and cook on Low for 6 to 7 hours or on High for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
- For crispy skin, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3–5 minutes.
- Spoon the garlic-infused juices over the chicken before serving.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a side of roasted veggies.
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Julie says
This is SO GOOD. I used boneless skinless chicken thighs and didn't even bother with olive oil. Perfectly juicy, tender, with amaaaazzzing flavor!
Jay (Spinelli) says
Thanks, haven't tried it using chicken thighs yet. Will do soon!
Dirk Jackson says
Can I try this recipe with chicken breast or thighs???
Jay (Spinelli) says
Absolutely!!
Time says
Can I add golden potatoes or mushrooms using the name recipe measurements?
Jay (Spinelli) says
Absolutely. But I don't think they would need to cook as long as the chicken.