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This post is all about Chicken Thigh Recipes Crockpot Ideas.
This BBQ Crockpot Chicken Thighs recipe delivers classic barbecue flavor made effortless.
The chicken thighs become fall-apart tender as they cook slowly making them perfect for sliders, baked potatoes or quick meal-prep bowls.
Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken moist and juicy. This recipe is simple and requires minimal hands-on time making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Effortless BBQ Chicken Thighs
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with BBQ chicken thighs. These thighs are seasoned and cooked in a tangy barbecue sauce, transforming them into a fall-apart tender delight. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with classic barbecue flavor made effortless.
This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can create a meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients for Success
To prepare this mouthwatering dish, you will need a handful of ingredients. Start with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and moisture. The seasoning blend includes garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, which work together to enhance the chicken’s natural taste.
Don’t forget the barbecue sauce! Choose your favorite variety to coat the chicken, ensuring it’s well-covered for that rich, tangy flavor. Optional garnishes like chopped green onions or parsley can add a fresh touch to your sliders.
Cooking Method
The cooking method is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry and seasoning them generously. For those who want to add an extra layer of flavor, browning the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot is a great option, though it can be skipped if you’re short on time.
Once the chicken is seasoned, place it in the crockpot and pour the barbecue sauce over the top. Cover and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The result? Chicken that shreds beautifully and is ready to be served on toasted slider buns.
Serving Suggestions
Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve! Shred the chicken using two forks and mix it back into the sauce for an even distribution of flavor. This shredded BBQ chicken is perfect for sliders, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or casual family dinners.
Pair your sliders with a side of coleslaw and pickles to add a refreshing crunch that complements the rich barbecue sauce. The combination of flavors and textures makes for a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Meal Prep and Storage
This BBQ chicken recipe is not only delicious but also versatile for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe to have leftovers for the week. Store any extra shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop, and serve it again on sliders, baked potatoes, or even in salads for a quick and easy meal. The possibilities are endless!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this BBQ crockpot chicken thighs offers a balanced meal option. With approximately 320 calories per serving, it provides 25 grams of protein and 20 grams of fat, making it a hearty choice for those looking to satisfy their hunger without compromising on flavor.
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, these BBQ chicken thighs are sure to impress. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delightful taste that comes from slow cooking, making this dish a staple in your recipe collection.
Effortless BBQ Chicken Thighs
These chicken thighs are seasoned and cooked in a tangy barbecue sauce until they are tender enough to shred. The recipe takes about 8 hours in the crockpot and serves 6 people, making it a great option for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for browning)
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Optional Browning: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 3-4 minutes until browned, then flip and brown the other side for another 3-4 minutes. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if desired.
- Add to Crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the crockpot. Pour the barbecue sauce over the top, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and mix it with the sauce. Serve on sliders, baked potatoes, or in meal-prep bowls.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
