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There’s something incredibly comforting about a meal that practically cooks itself, especially when the result is tender, flavorful barbecue chicken thighs. This Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a hug in food form. The chicken becomes fall-apart juicy and perfectly infused with the sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, making it an instant favorite in any household.

Perfect for busy weeknights, summer gatherings, or cold days when you just want the aroma of slow-cooked goodness filling your home, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s a no-fuss, high-reward kind of meal that’s delicious served over rice, on sandwich buns, or alongside your favorite comfort food sides.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe

It’s the ultimate easy dinner with minimal prep and maximum flavor. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, while you get to enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth texture of dark meat chicken steeped in your favorite BBQ sauce. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can spice it up or keep it sweet depending on your family’s preference.

What Type of Chicken Thighs Should I Use?

This recipe works best with bone-in, skinless chicken thighs. Bone-in pieces stay incredibly moist and tender during the long, slow cooking process. If you prefer boneless, those will work too—just keep in mind they may cook slightly faster, and you’ll want to reduce the cook time by about 30 minutes to an hour.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs

To get the most out of this dish, you want to keep it simple but flavorful. Each ingredient plays a key role in developing that sticky, saucy BBQ finish.

• Chicken thighs
• BBQ sauce
• Brown sugar
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Apple cider vinegar
• Worcestershire sauce

Each of these ingredients combines to bring out a deep, rich barbecue flavor that penetrates the chicken over hours of slow cooking. Don’t skip the apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce—they add a tangy depth that balances the sweetness perfectly.

How To Make the Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together your BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.

Step 3: Add Everything to the Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the slow cooker in an even layer. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the top, making sure the chicken is well coated.

Step 4: Slow Cook Until Tender

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Optional Final Broil

For extra texture, you can place the cooked thighs on a baking sheet and broil them for 3 to 4 minutes to caramelize the sauce.

How to Serve and Store Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs

This recipe yields enough to feed 4 to 6 people, depending on your serving size and sides. It’s ideal for family dinners, weekend cookouts, or meal prepping for the week.

Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of BBQ sauce to keep it moist.

What to Serve With BBQ Chicken Thighs?

Creamy Coleslaw

The crisp and creamy texture of coleslaw pairs perfectly with the tangy richness of BBQ chicken.

Cornbread

Slightly sweet and buttery, cornbread is a must for soaking up that extra sauce.

Baked Mac and Cheese

Comfort food at its finest—gooey, cheesy mac makes every BBQ plate better.

Roasted Broccoli and Carrots

A wholesome, earthy counterpoint to the saucy chicken.

Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

Rich, cheesy, and indulgent—they’ll make your meal feel extra special.

Pickles or Pickled Onions

Add a punch of acidity and crunch to your plate.

Green Beans with Bacon

A Southern-style classic that brings salty, smoky balance.

Classic Baked Beans

Sweet, savory, and a BBQ essential.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved these Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs, you’re going to want to try these next:

• Cheesy Chicken Fritters for a crispy, cheesy bite.
• Chicken Parmesan for a golden, saucy classic.
• Creamy Garlic Marry Me Salmon for a rich, elegant twist.
• Creamy Garlic Orzo with Lemon Chicken Meatballs when you want cozy meets zesty.
• Best Chicken and Rice Casserole for comfort in one dish.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it any time you’re craving easy, saucy BBQ chicken.

Let me know in the comments if you gave it a try! Did you go spicy or sweet? Did you shred the chicken for sandwiches or serve it whole over rice?

Explore even more comfort food favorites and healthy spins on classics on Mia Recipes on Pinterest.

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