Description
These Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs feature tender, juicy chicken with a smoky BBQ flavor, slow-cooked to perfection and finished under the broiler for a beautifully caramelized glaze. Easy to prepare and ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Chicken Thighs
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons granulated garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
BBQ Sauce
- ⅔ cup BBQ sauce, divided (⅓ cup for cooking, ⅓ cup for glazing)
Instructions
- Prepare Slow Cooker: Spray a 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Season Chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs into the slow cooker. Evenly sprinkle the smoked paprika, granulated garlic powder, and kosher salt over all sides of the chicken. Pour ⅓ cup of BBQ sauce over the thighs and spread to coat them evenly.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high heat for 2 to 3 hours or on low heat for 4 to 5 hours, until the chicken is very tender and fully cooked through.
- Preheat Broiler: Once the chicken is cooked, preheat your oven broiler to high to prepare for finishing the glaze.
- Glaze and Broil: Carefully transfer the cooked chicken thighs to a foil-lined, broiler-safe pan. Thinly brush each piece with the remaining ⅓ cup of BBQ sauce. Place under the broiler for 3 to 4 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning, until the BBQ sauce browns and caramelizes slightly.
Notes
- Use a 6-quart slow cooker for even cooking and adequate space.
- Broil cautiously as BBQ sauce can burn quickly under high heat.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted with bone-in thighs but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Leftover chicken can be shredded and used in sandwiches or salads.
- For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours (slow cooker) + 5 minutes (broiling)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
