Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy Crockpot Chicken Leg Quarters are a flavorful, tender, and juicy meal option that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy days. Slow-cooked with wholesome ingredients and minimal added fat, this dish delivers comfort food satisfaction without compromising nutrition. The meat falls off the bone and is infused with savory herbs and spices, making it both delicious and nourishing.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken leg quarters (skin-on or skinless)olive oil (optional for browning)garlic (minced)onion (sliced)carrots (sliced)celery (sliced)chicken brothpaprikadried thymeoregano or Italian seasoningsaltblack pepperlemon juicefresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

Optional: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown chicken leg quarters for 2-3 minutes per side to enhance flavor.

Place sliced onions, carrots, and celery at the bottom of the crockpot to create a vegetable bed.

Lay the chicken leg quarters on top of the vegetables.

Sprinkle garlic, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken.

Pour chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice over the contents.

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3.5-4 hours, until chicken is fully cooked and tender (internal temp 165°F/74°C).

Optional: Broil chicken in the oven for 5 minutes after cooking to crisp the skin.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3.5-4 hours (high)Total time: 6.5-8.5 hours

Variations

Add sweet potatoes or baby potatoes for a complete one-pot meal.

Use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts or thighs as an alternative.

Spice it up with cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

Add a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar for depth.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave for 2-3 minutes.Freeze cooked chicken and vegetables for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, but bone-in chicken provides more flavor and moisture.

Do I need to brown the chicken first?

It’s optional but adds depth and color.

Can I add rice or grains?

Cook separately, as grains can get mushy in the crockpot.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your chicken broth is certified gluten-free.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

It should be very tender and reach an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this recipe low-sodium?

Use low-sodium broth and adjust salt to taste.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Thaw fully before cooking for safe, even results.

What vegetables work best?

Carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes hold up well in slow cooking.

Will the skin be crispy?

Not in the crockpot—broil briefly after cooking if desired.

Can I cook on high?

Yes, 3.5 to 4 hours on high works well.

Conclusion

Healthy Crockpot Chicken Leg Quarters offer a fuss-free, nutritious meal packed with comforting flavor and tender texture. Perfect for weeknights or meal prep, this slow cooker recipe lets you enjoy a home-cooked dinner with minimal effort and maximum taste.