Slow cooker barbecue chicken is the epitome of effortless comfort food. This recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken that practically falls off the bone, all thanks to the magic of slow cooking. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings, this recipe is easily customizable to your favorite barbecue sauce and spice levels. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 2-3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or a mix of thighs and drumsticks)
- 1 cup your favorite barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade – see variations below!)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better and develop a nice crust. Season generously with salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
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Sear (Optional but Recommended): For extra flavor and a beautiful caramelized exterior, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a depth of flavor that slow cooking alone can't achieve.
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Slow Cook: Place the seared (or unseared) chicken thighs in your slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth (or water) over the chicken. Pour your barbecue sauce evenly over the chicken and broth.
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Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Shred and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding the chicken with two forks. You can then mix the shredded chicken back into the barbecue sauce in the slow cooker to keep it moist and flavorful.
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Serve: Serve your slow cooker barbecue chicken on buns, over rice, with coleslaw, or as part of a delicious barbecue platter.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the barbecue sauce for a spicier kick.
- Sweet and smoky: Use a barbecue sauce with a strong smoky flavor and add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey for extra sweetness.
- Different Cuts: Feel free to use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may dry out more easily than thighs. Reduce cooking time if using breasts.
- Make your own sauce: Many delicious barbecue sauce recipes are available online – experiment and find your perfect blend!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you'll need to increase the cooking time significantly. Add about 1-2 hours to the low setting cooking time, or adjust accordingly for high. Ensure the chicken is fully thawed before serving.
What kind of slow cooker do I need?
Any slow cooker will work, from a small 3-quart model to a larger 6-quart or even larger capacity. Choose the size that best suits your needs and the amount of chicken you're cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover slow cooker barbecue chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! You can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot. Sear the chicken as directed, then add the remaining ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release.
This slow cooker barbecue chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
