Crockpot BBQ Chicken Thighs

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Tender, Juicy, and Packed with Flavor
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These Crockpot BBQ Chicken Thighs are a weeknight dream—just a handful of ingredients, five minutes of prep, and the slow cooker does the rest. The result? Fall-apart tender dark meat, coated in smoky spices and your favorite BBQ sauce.
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If you love easy slow cooker meals, this one’s right up there with my Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotisserie-Style Chicken recipes. They all deliver juicy, flavorful results with barely any effort—making dinnertime something to look forward to.
📝 Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Smoked paprika | 1 tablespoon |
Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons |
Dry mustard | 1 teaspoon |
Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
Red pepper flakes | ½ teaspoon |
Salt | 1 teaspoon |
Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) | 8 thighs (about 3 lbs) |
BBQ sauce | 1½ cups |
👩🍳 Instructions
- Mix the seasoning
In a small bowl, combine paprika, brown sugar, dry mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and salt. - Season the chicken
Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over both sides. - Add BBQ sauce
Brush 1 cup of BBQ sauce over the seasoned chicken. - Cook low and slow
Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or high for 2 hours, until chicken is tender and cooked through. - Broil for caramelization (optional but recommended)
Preheat your broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with foil.
Brush the remaining ½ cup of BBQ sauce over the cooked chicken and transfer to the baking sheet.
Broil for 3–5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. This step adds a delicious char and sticky finish. - Serve and enjoy
Pair with mashed potatoes and your favorite veggie—corn, green beans, or coleslaw work beautifully.
🔄 Notes & Tips
- Chicken breasts can be used instead—just choose thicker cuts to avoid overcooking.
- Broiling adds color and caramelization but is optional if you’re short on time.
- Want to make it spicy? Add a dash of cayenne or use a hot BBQ sauce.