Name: Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 250 min
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; 2 ½ pounds boneless chicken thighs; 1 ½ cups BBQ Sauce (I used Sweet Baby Rays but you can use your favorite BBQ sauce)

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When I think of comfort food that warms the soul, Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs immediately comes to mind. Imagine a busy weeknight when you want to serve something that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; the aroma filled the house, and I could hardly wait to dig in. The simplicity of throwing everything into the slow cooker while I went about my day was a game changer. By the time dinner rolled around, the chicken was perfectly tender and infused with a rich BBQ flavor that even the pickiest eaters couldn’t resist!

Cooking can sometimes feel like a chore, but with Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs, it transforms into a delightful experience. I love how this recipe allows me to spend more time with my loved ones while still serving a home-cooked meal. Plus, it’s a hit for gatherings, and trust me, your guests will be asking for seconds. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a potluck with friends, this dish is sure to impress. And the best part? It’s versatile enough to be served in numerous ways!

So let’s dive into this simple yet mouthwatering recipe that’s become a staple in our household.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
4 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
240 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
26 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
21 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Slow Cooker, Mixing Bowl, Oven

The Charm of This Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs

Convenience at Its Best

One of the main reasons why I love Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs is the sheer convenience it offers. Life can get busy, and sometimes the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. This recipe allows you to prep the chicken quickly, and then let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you focus on other tasks. Just set it and forget it!

Flavorful and Juicy

Slow cooking the chicken thighs ensures they remain juicy and flavorful. The combination of spices and BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that seeps into the meat, making every bite a burst of deliciousness. You’ll be amazed at how tender the chicken becomes when cooked slowly!

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who likes to meal prep, this recipe is an absolute winner. You can easily double or triple the batch, and the leftovers taste just as good (if not better) the next day. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be paired with various sides or turned into sandwiches for lunch.

Family-Friendly

Let’s face it: getting kids to eat can be a challenge. However, Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs is a surefire hit with kids of all ages. The natural sweetness of the BBQ sauce and the fun of eating with their hands makes it appealing. I’ve found that even my pickiest eater loves digging into this meal!

Ideal for Any Occasion

This dish isn’t just for weeknights; it’s perfect for gatherings, BBQs, and even game days. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and you’ve got a winning meal that’ll delight your guests. Plus, it doesn’t require constant monitoring, allowing you to enjoy time with friends and family while dinner cooks itself.

Easy Clean-Up

One of the best parts about using a slow cooker is how easy cleanup is afterward. With just a few dishes to wash and no pots to scrub, you can sit back and relax after a delicious meal. This makes Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs not only tasty but practical.

What’s In This Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs

Every ingredient in this recipe works together beautifully to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The key players are the boneless chicken thighs, which become tender and juicy in the slow cooker, along with the BBQ sauce, which provides that sweet and smoky richness we all love. The spices like paprika, garlic powder, and salt are essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavor profile.

1 teaspoon paprika: This adds a lovely smoky flavor that enhances the BBQ taste.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A staple seasoning, it rounds out the flavors with a subtle garlic essence.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors in all ingredients.
½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a hint of heat and depth to the seasoning.
2 ½ pounds boneless chicken thighs: The star of the dish, these thighs are tender and soak up the BBQ sauce beautifully. Aim for around 6 to 8 pieces.
1 ½ cups BBQ Sauce: I used Sweet Baby Ray’s, but feel free to use your favorite brand for a personal touch.

Making Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs

Making these Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs is as easy as pie! With just a few simple steps, you’ll create a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the process together!

Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside. This seasoning blend is crucial for infusing flavor into the chicken.
Next, spray the bottom of your slow cooker with cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and make for an easier clean-up later on.
Now, take the boneless chicken thighs and trim any excess fat. Place them on a cutting board, and sprinkle half of the seasoning mixture over the top. Gently rub it in, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Flip the chicken thighs over and repeat the process with the remaining seasoning on the other side. This ensures that all pieces are flavorful.
Roll each thigh up as they naturally want to roll, and place them in the slow cooker with the rolled side down. This helps maintain their shape and keeps them juicy.
Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is covered generously. The sauce will create a sweet and tangy glaze as it cooks.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. The chicken will become tender and absorb all the flavors from the sauce and spices.
If you need to delay dinner, you can switch the slow cooker to the warm setting. This way, your meal will be ready when you are!
When it’s almost time to eat, preheat your oven’s broiler. Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil and spray it lightly with cooking oil. This will help when transferring the chicken for crisping.
Carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and place them on the prepared sheet pan, leaving some space between each piece. Using a silicone brush, generously brush extra BBQ sauce over the chicken for added flavor.
Place the chicken under the broiler for 1 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to ensure it crisps up nicely but does not burn.
Once done, remove from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs!

Things Worth Knowing

Cook Time Variations: You can adjust the cooking time based on your slow cooker model. If you have a newer model, it may cook faster.
Seasoning Adjustments: Feel free to tweak the seasoning to your taste. Adding a bit of cayenne pepper can give it a nice kick!
BBQ Sauce Options: Experiment with different brands or flavors of BBQ sauce to find what you love best.
Doneness Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Leftover Ideas: Leftover chicken can be used in salads, sandwiches, or wraps for a quick meal.

Ways to Customize

Looking to make this recipe your own? Here are some great ideas for customizing your Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs:

Spicy Kick: Add some hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a spicy version that will tantalize your taste buds.
Sweet Variations: Consider adding honey or brown sugar to the BBQ sauce for a sweeter glaze.
Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to elevate the flavor profile even more.
Vegetable Additions: Add diced onions or bell peppers in the slow cooker for added flavor and nutrition.
Side Pairings: Serve with coleslaw, cornbread, or a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Wrap It Up: Roll the chicken in tortillas with your favorite toppings for a delicious BBQ wrap.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs, the options are as endless as they are delicious. Here are some suggestions:

Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw complements the tender chicken perfectly, providing a refreshing contrast.
Grilled Corn: Sweet and smoky grilled corn on the cob is a delightful side that adds summer vibes.
Baked Beans: A classic pairing, baked beans add heartiness to the meal and enhance the BBQ experience.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve over seasoned rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious BBQ sauce.
Potato Salad: This creamy side dish is a crowd-pleaser and works wonderfully with BBQ flavors.
Sandwiches: For a fun twist, shred the chicken and serve it on buns for BBQ chicken sandwiches!

FAQ

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs; however, keep in mind that they may not be as tender. Chicken thighs have more fat, which helps to keep them juicy during the slow cooking process. If you decide to use breasts, be sure not to overcook them, as they can dry out quickly.

If you’re looking to add some heat to your Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs, consider mixing in some cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce into the BBQ sauce before cooking. Alternatively, you can top the finished dish with sliced jalapeños or a spicy BBQ sauce for an extra kick. Just remember to adjust to your spice tolerance!

Leftover Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the chicken in portions for up to three months. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before enjoying!

Absolutely! You can add diced onions, bell peppers, or even carrots to the slow cooker along with the chicken. These vegetables will cook down and mingle with the flavors of the BBQ sauce, making the dish even more delicious and nutritious.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs is a standout dish that brings together convenience, flavor, and family-friendliness in one unforgettable meal. With minimal prep and a slow cooker to do the work, it’s perfect for busy days when you want something hearty at dinner. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!