Crock Pot Chicken Thighs are juicy and full of flavor, making dinner a breeze! Just toss in the thighs with your favorite seasonings and let the slow cooker do all the magic.
What’s great is how easy these are to prepare. I love coming home to a warm, tasty meal. Plus, they are perfect for leftovers, which I enjoy! Who doesn’t like a stress-free dinner?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are perfect for moisture and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless skinless thighs can work but may need a closer eye on cooking time to prevent drying out.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite barbecue sauce for this dish! If you want to make it healthier, try a low-sugar or homemade version. Alternatively, a teriyaki sauce can add a nice twist.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, but you can use maple syrup or agave syrup if you’re avoiding honey. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, substitute with tamari or coconut aminos. These alternatives still bring a savory taste without the gluten.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is ideal here, but if you’re short on time, garlic powder can do the job. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Thighs Are Tender and Juicy?
To ensure your chicken thighs come out tender and juicy, start by patting them dry before seasoning. This helps them brown better and creates a nice crust.
- Season both sides of the chicken well with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Layer the chicken in the crock pot and pour the sauce over, covering all pieces. This keeps moisture locked in.
- Cooking low and slow is key! Aim for 6-7 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high. Avoid opening the lid frequently, as this lets heat escape.
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt, to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
- ½ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will require about 15 minutes of preparation time and then 6-7 hours in the crock pot if you cook on low, or 3-4 hours if you choose high. Just prep it in the morning, and it will be ready for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them to get a nice brown color. Then, sprinkle salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika on both sides of the chicken thighs to add flavor.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Mix everything together until it’s well blended and set it aside for the next step.
3. Layer in the Crock Pot:
Put the seasoned chicken thighs at the bottom of the crock pot. Then pour the delicious sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure it’s all coated well. This sauce will make the chicken super tasty as it cooks!
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it to cook. You can choose to cook it on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
5. Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the crock pot and drizzle it with any leftover sauce. Don’t forget to garnish it with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color!
6. Plate:
Serve the chicken thighs over fluffy cooked white rice. Spoon some extra sauce over the top for added flavor, and enjoy your meal!
Enjoy your delicious and flavorful crock pot chicken thighs!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs! Just reduce the cooking time slightly, cooking on low for about 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. This will help prevent them from drying out, as boneless chicken cooks faster.
What if I Don’t Have Barbecue Sauce?
No problem! You can make a simple homemade sauce using ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and a little brown sugar. Mix 1 cup of ketchup with 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar and 1/4 cup brown sugar. Adjust the sweetness to your preference!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked chicken thighs in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and enjoy!
