Turkey Thighs Crock Pot: Two Delicious Recipes for a Flavorful Feast

Are you looking for a way to cook turkey thighs that is both easy and delicious? Look no further than your crock pot! This versatile kitchen appliance can be used to create a variety of flavorful dishes, including two amazing turkey thigh recipes that we’ll explore today.

Slow-Cooker Turkey Thighs with Herb Gravy (EatingWell)

This recipe from EatingWell is perfect for those who love tender, moist, dark meat. The turkey thighs are cooked in a flavorful broth with herbs, then topped with a delicious herb gravy. This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 bone-in, skinless turkey thighs (about 3 pounds)
• ¾ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ cup finely chopped shallots
• 2 tablespoons sliced garlic
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
• 1 ½ cups unsalted chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the turkey with the pepper and 3/4 teaspoon of the salt. Cook the turkey in the skillet in batches, turning once, until well browned, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer the turkey to a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. (Do not wipe the skillet clean.)
2. Add the shallots, garlic, and 1 tablespoon of the thyme to the skillet; cook over medium-high, stirring constantly, 30 seconds. Add the stock to the skillet; bring to a boil, stirring and scraping to loosen the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Transfer the stock mixture to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW until the turkey is very tender and falling off the bones, about 4 hours and 30 minutes.
3. Transfer the turkey from the slow cooker to a cutting board, and remove the meat from the bones, discarding the bones. Place the turkey on a serving platter and cover it with aluminum foil to keep it warm.
4. Pour the cooking liquid from the slow cooker through a wire-mesh strainer into a 2-quart saucepan, discarding the solids. Stir together the flour and butter in a small bowl to form a smooth paste; gradually whisk the flour mixture into the cooking liquid in the saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high, whisking constantly; boil, whisking occasionally, until thickened, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from the heat and whisk in the parsley and remaining 1 tablespoon thyme and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Serve the turkey with the gravy.

Crock Pot Turkey Thighs With White Wine and Garlic (The Spruce Eats)

This recipe from The Spruce Eats is a great option for those who are looking for a simple yet flavorful dish. The turkey thighs are cooked in a crock pot with white wine, garlic, and fresh parsley, resulting in a juicy and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless turkey thighs, skin removed
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, or lemon pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, whole
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Season the turkey with salt and pepper or lemon pepper.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the turkey thighs and brown for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. Place the turkey in the slow cooker and add the remaining ingredients. Cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, or until the turkey thighs are cooked through.
4. Remove the garlic cloves from the pot. If desired, mash a few and return to the slow cooker. Gently mix to combine.
5. Serve the turkey with the juices. Enjoy!

Tips for Cooking Turkey Thighs in a Crock Pot

• Brown the turkey thighs before adding them to the crock pot. This will help to seal in the juices and create a more flavorful dish.
• Use a boneless, skinless turkey thigh for this recipe. This will make it easier to remove the meat from the bones after cooking.
• Add your favorite vegetables to the crock pot. Carrots, potatoes, and onions are all great options.
• Serve the turkey thighs with your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and rice are all delicious options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of turkey thighs?

A: Yes you can use chicken thighs in this recipe. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as chicken thighs cook faster than turkey thighs.

Q: Can I use a different type of wine?

A: Yes, you can use any type of dry white wine in this recipe. However, a dry white wine will provide the best flavor.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply assemble the ingredients in the crock pot and refrigerate overnight. In the morning cook the turkey thighs on high for 3 to 4 hours, or until cooked through.

Q: Can I freeze this recipe?

A: Yes, you can freeze this recipe. Once the turkey thighs are cooked, let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the turkey thighs in the refrigerator overnight, then heat them in the crock pot on low until warmed through.

Turkey thighs are a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. These two crock pot recipes are a great way to enjoy turkey thighs without spending hours in the kitchen. So next time you’re looking for an easy and flavorful meal, give one of these recipes a try!