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Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs


  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 7 hours
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

These Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs are fall-off-the-bone tender and bursting with smoky-sweet flavor. Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let the magic happen while you go about your day. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or relaxed Sunday dinners.


Ingredients

2 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)

1 ½ cups BBQ sauce

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

2. In a mixing bowl, stir together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until fully combined.

3. Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the slow cooker and pour the sauce over the top, ensuring each piece is coated.

4. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

5. Optional: For a caramelized top, transfer chicken to a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes.

6. Spoon extra sauce from the slow cooker over the chicken before serving.

Notes

For best flavor, use skinless, bone-in chicken thighs—they stay moist and flavorful in the slow cooker.

Want a crispy finish? Always broil after slow cooking for extra texture.

This recipe doubles well, just make sure not to overcrowd your slow cooker.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6–7 hours
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (with sauce)
  • Calories: 340
  • Sugar: 14
  • Sodium: 670
  • Fat: 18
  • Saturated Fat: 5
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 16
  • Fiber: 0
  • Protein: 28
  • Cholesterol: 120

Keywords: BBQ chicken, slow cooker, easy dinner