How do you BBQ chicken in a slow cooker?

To make BBQ chicken in a slow cooker, start with seasoned chicken thighs, your favorite BBQ sauce, and a layer of aromatics like onion and garlic. Set the cooker to low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, you can finish it under the broiler for a sticky glaze. That’s how I get restaurant-level flavor with minimal effort in my slow cooker BBQ chicken thighs.

Do you need liquid in a slow cooker for chicken thighs?

No extra liquid is needed for slow cooker BBQ chicken thighs. The thighs naturally release juices as they cook, and the BBQ sauce provides plenty of moisture. Adding water or broth can water down the flavor. Just pour the sauce directly over the meat, and let the slow cooker do the rest.

Are chicken thighs good for slow cooking?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are ideal for slow cooking because they stay moist and flavorful, even after hours of heat. That’s why I always choose thighs when making dishes like slow cooker BBQ chicken thighs. They don’t dry out like chicken breasts can, and their rich texture makes them perfect for soaking up sauce.

Is 3 hours long enough for chicken thighs in a slow cooker?

Three hours on high is often enough to fully cook chicken thighs, especially if they’re boneless. However, for the most tender and flavorful result, I prefer 6–7 hours on low. With slow cooker BBQ chicken thighs, low and slow gives you the best texture and deepest flavor.

The Best Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs

Description

Slow cooker BBQ chicken thighs are tender, saucy, and packed with smoky-sweet flavor. This no-fuss recipe turns simple ingredients into a comforting meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)

1 small onion, thinly sliced

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 tbsp brown sugar

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp chili powder

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or Worcestershire)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and spice blend.

Place sliced onions and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.

Arrange the chicken thighs over the onion-garlic base.

Mix BBQ sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and pour over the chicken.

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

Optional: Transfer chicken to baking sheet, brush with sauce, and broil for 3–5 minutes for a sticky finish.

Serve hot with additional sauce spooned over, if desired.

Notes

For extra heat, add hot sauce or chipotle powder to the BBQ sauce.

Use boneless thighs if you prefer faster cooking and easier shredding.

Leftovers make excellent sandwiches, wraps, or rice bowls.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1–2 thighs
Calories: 350 per serving
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 640mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: slow cooker BBQ chicken thighs, crockpot chicken, barbecue