🍗 Best Cheap Crockpot Chicken Recipe for Families
Easy, Budget-Friendly, and Made for Busy Weeknights
Looking for an affordable, family-friendly chicken dinner that practically cooks itself? This slow cooker chicken recipe is perfect for tight grocery budgets and even tighter schedules. With only a few ingredients and a hands-off cooking method, it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that everyone will love — from toddlers to teens!
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 💸 Low-cost ingredients — under $10 for a family of 4–6
- 🐔 Uses budget cuts like chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 🕒 Dump-and-go crockpot convenience
- 🧂 Simple seasonings, big flavor
- 🥣 Versatile — serve over rice, pasta, or with bread
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 6–8 bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks (skin-on or skinless)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or chicken soup (or substitute homemade sauce)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
Optional add-ins (budget-friendly):
- 2 medium potatoes, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- Frozen peas or corn (added at the end)
🍽️ Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
- Layer the sliced onions and garlic on the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Season the Chicken
- Lightly season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and thyme. Place them on top of the onions.
3. Add the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix the soup and chicken broth. Pour over the chicken to coat evenly.
4. Cook Low and Slow
- Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
5. Thicken (Optional)
- For thicker gravy, remove lid in the last 30 minutes or mix in a slurry of 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water.
6. Serve
- Spoon chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, cooked rice, noodles, or crusty bread.
👩🍳 Tips & Variations
- Use what you have: Bone-in chicken pieces are cheapest and most flavorful.
- No canned soup? Substitute with 1/2 cup milk + 1 tbsp flour + spices.
- Add frozen veggies in the last hour to avoid overcooking.
- Shred leftovers and use for sandwiches, wraps, or quesadillas.
🥗 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with:
✅ Steamed rice or mashed potatoes
✅ Roasted or sautéed green beans
✅ A simple garden salad - Kids love this with buttery noodles or soft dinner rolls!
📦 Storage & Freezer Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 2 months
- Reheat: Microwave or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water
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Delicious, Fuss-Free, and Family-Approved!
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