Description
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs offer tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken that requires minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this dish combines smoky BBQ flavors with a simple preparation that anyone can master. Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs enhances moisture and taste, making it a versatile, budget-friendly, and crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 6–8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Sauce
- 1 to 1.5 cups BBQ sauce (your choice of brand or homemade)
- Optional: 1-2 teaspoons liquid smoke for extra smoky flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp slightly and to ensure the seasoning sticks well. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker with the skin side up to help maintain texture during cooking.
- Add the BBQ Sauce: Pour the BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well coated. If using, add a few drops of liquid smoke now to deepen the smoky flavor.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours or on high heat for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender enough to easily pull apart.
- Optional Finishing Touch: For crispier skin, transfer the cooked chicken thighs to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes or until the skin is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate the Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs alongside your favorite sides and garnish with fresh herbs or toppings before serving for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results.
- Do not overcrowd the slow cooker—give each piece room for even cooking and sauce coverage.
- Choose a quality BBQ sauce that you love, as it is the main flavor component.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to improve skin texture, especially if broiling at the end.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
- Reserve extra BBQ sauce to drizzle on the chicken or serve as a dip.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: slow cooker, BBQ chicken, chicken thighs, easy dinner, barbecue, crockpot recipe, gluten free, weeknight meal