Is braised chicken good?

Yes, braised chicken is not only flavorful but also exceptionally tender. Slow braising allows flavors to develop deeply, making each bite juicy and satisfying.

Does a slow cooker braise meat?

Absolutely. A slow cooker simulates braising by cooking meat in liquid over a long period, creating a moist, fall-apart texture.

Can you do marry me chicken in a slow cooker?

Yes. The creamy, savory flavors of Marry Me Chicken adapt well to slow cooking. Reduce liquid slightly for better sauce consistency.

What cut of chicken is best for a crockpot?

Bone-in thighs or drumsticks are best—they hold moisture and absorb flavor better during long cooking hours.

Crockpot Pumpkin Beer Braised Chicken – The Best Fall Comfort Recipe (2025)

Description

Tender chicken slow-cooked with pumpkin beer, apple cider, herbs, and sweet onions, served over creamy mashed potatoes for the perfect cozy fall dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds boneless, skin-on or skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Salt and black pepper
3 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon chili powder
6 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
6 tablespoons salted butter
3–4 yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 cups apple cider (not apple cider vinegar)
1 bottle pumpkin beer (or use additional cider/broth)
Mashed Potatoes:
1 pound small/medium potatoes
6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
6 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then toss with flour and chili powder to coat.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sear the chicken until golden, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to the crockpot.
Add garlic, thyme, and sage to the same skillet with the remaining butter and onions. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Pour in cider and pumpkin beer, scraping up any browned bits.
Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, boil the potatoes until fork tender. Drain and mash with cream cheese, butter, and garlic powder until smooth and creamy.
Serve the braised chicken and onions over the mashed potatoes, spooning sauce over the top.

Notes

You can substitute pumpkin beer with additional apple cider or chicken broth if desired. For extra depth, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the braising liquid.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 520
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: pumpkin beer, braised chicken, crockpot, fall dinner, mashed potatoes