These slow-cooked chicken thighs are fall-apart tender and full of warm, herby flavor—without any added salt. Using no salt chicken broth and a blend of salt-free spices, this dish supports cardiovascular health while keeping prep easy. Just brown, set, and let your slow cooker work its magic. Ideal for busy days and low sodium eating.

Low Sodium Slow Cooker Chicken Thigh Recipe

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Table of Contents

Ingredients Needed:

6–8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: unseasoned and unbrined.
1 teaspoon dried parsley: mild and fragrant.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: adds rich flavor.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: optional, for light spice.
¼ teaspoon onion powder: sweet and savory.
¼ teaspoon paprika: for color and smoky depth.
1 tablespoon oil: for browning the skin.
¼ cup no salt added chicken broth: base for slow cooking.

How To Make Low Sodium Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs:

Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix parsley, garlic powder, pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Rub the mix evenly over both sides of each chicken thigh.

Brown the Chicken:
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. In batches, brown the chicken skin-side down for 2–4 minutes until lightly golden.

Assemble in Slow Cooker:
Pour chicken broth into the bottom of a 2.5 to 4-quart slow cooker. Place chicken thighs skin-side up in the cooker, trying not to overlap.

Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3 hours, until a thermometer reads 165°F in the thickest part.

Serve:
Carefully remove and serve with your favorite low sodium sides.

Recipe Tips:

Use no salt added chicken broth—under 70mg sodium per 1 cup.
Choose fresh, unbrined chicken to avoid hidden sodium.
Add a pinch of herbes de Provence or rosemary for extra flavor.
Crisp the skin under a broiler for 2–3 minutes if desired.

How to Store & Reheat:

Room Temperature: Not safe beyond 1 hour.
Fridge: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months. Reheat in microwave or oven until hot.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approx.):

Calories: 218
Sodium: 85mg
Protein: 21g
Fat: 14g
Carbs: 1g
Fibre: 0g
Sugar: 0g

FAQs:

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs work well too. Reduce cook time slightly (low 4–5 hours, high 2.5 hours).

Is chicken broth okay on a low sodium diet?
Only if it’s labeled no salt added with less than 100mg sodium per cup.

How do I season chicken without salt?
Use herbs like parsley, garlic, paprika, and onion powder for full flavor without sodium.

Can I cook this without browning the chicken first?
Yes, but browning adds extra flavor and texture.

What sides go well with this recipe?
Try steamed green beans, mashed cauliflower, or roasted carrots—all salt-free.

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