Slow Cooker Creamy Tarragon Chicken Thighs
If you’re looking for an easy slow cooker chicken recipe that feels elegant but requires very little effort, this Slow Cooker Creamy Tarragon Chicken is a must-try. Tender chicken thighs cook slowly in a rich Dijon cream sauce flavored with shallots, garlic, and fragrant tarragon.
The result is a creamy crockpot chicken dinner that tastes restaurant-quality while still being perfect for busy weeknights no white wine needed.
This cozy recipe combines classic French-inspired flavors with practical slow cooker cooking: just mix one silky sauce, pour it over the chicken, and let your crockpot do the work.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tarragon Chicken:
Easy dump-and-go slow cooker recipe
Ultra-tender chicken thighs that stay juicy
Rich creamy Dijon sauce perfect over noodles or mashed potatoes
Family-friendly and alcohol-free
Elegant flavor using simple pantry ingredients
Perfect if you enjoy creamy slow cooker chicken, French-style crockpot meals, or comforting homemade dinners.
Ingredients:
2½–3 lbs bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (optional)
¾ cup chicken broth
1 tsp fresh lemon juice (adds brightness)
¾ cup heavy cream
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 medium shallots, finely minced
2 tbsp fresh tarragon (or 2 tsp dried)
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
1 tsp chicken bouillon paste or ½ cube bouillon (optional)
1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp cold water (optional thickener)
Fresh parsley or extra tarragon for garnish
Directions:
Lightly grease the slow cooker if desired. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper. Arrange them in a single layer inside the crockpot.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, lemon juice, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, shallots, tarragon, garlic, and bouillon until smooth.
This creamy mixture creates a rich, flavorful sauce without using wine.
Pour the sauce over the chicken thighs, coating each piece evenly. Cover and cook:
LOW: 5–6 hours
HIGH: 2½–3 hours
The chicken should be tender and easy to pull from the bone.
For a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook on HIGH for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.
Serve hot with extra creamy sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful finish.
Serving Ideas:
This creamy slow cooker chicken pairs perfectly with:
Buttered egg noodles
Fluffy mashed potatoes
Steamed green beans or peas
Roasted carrots
Warm crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Variations & Tips:
Boneless thighs: reduce cooking time slightly.
Add vegetables: mushrooms, baby carrots, or small potatoes cook beautifully in the sauce.
Lighter option: swap half the cream with whole milk or evaporated milk.
Herb swap: thyme, parsley, or chives instead of tarragon.
Recipe Benefits:
This creamy slow cooker chicken thigh recipe is perfect for busy families because it delivers rich comfort-food flavor with hands-off cooking. Using chicken broth and lemon instead of wine keeps the dish family-friendly while still giving the sauce depth, balance, and a cozy homemade taste.
