Print

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs
Print Recipe

These Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs are incredibly juicy, tender, and full of smoky-sweet flavor. Made with boneless chicken thighs and your favorite barbecue sauce, this easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. The optional broiling step adds a lightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 2½ pounds boneless chicken thighs (about 6–8 thighs)

  • 1½ cups BBQ sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s or your favorite brand)

Instructions

  1. Make the seasoning:
    In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

  2. Prepare the slow cooker:
    Lightly spray the slow cooker with cooking spray.

  3. Season the chicken:
    Trim excess fat from the chicken thighs. Sprinkle half of the seasoning over the chicken and rub lightly. Flip the thighs over and sprinkle the remaining seasoning on the other side.

  4. Arrange in slow cooker:
    Roll each chicken thigh loosely (they naturally curl) and place them seam-side down in the bottom of the slow cooker.

  5. Add BBQ sauce:
    Pour the BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken thighs.

  6. Cook:
    Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours, until the chicken is very tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
    You can switch the slow cooker to WARM if needed before serving.

Optional Broiling Step (For Crispy Edges)

  1. Turn your oven broiler on high.

  2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray with cooking oil.

  3. Transfer the cooked chicken thighs to the baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.

  4. Brush extra BBQ sauce generously over the chicken.

  5. Broil for 1–3 minutes, watching closely, until the edges lightly crisp (do not burn).

  6. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Boneless chicken thighs are safe at 165°F, but they become even more tender around 170–180°F.

  • Use a thick BBQ sauce for the best coating and flavor.

  • Double the sauce if you like extra for serving or meal prep.

  • These chicken thighs are perfect for sandwiches, rice bowls, tacos, or salads.

  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Find it online: https://biteseason.com/slow-cooker-bbq-chicken-thighs/