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Cozy Family BBQ Chicken Slow Cooker Recipe

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An easy, flavorful slow cooker BBQ chicken recipe perfect for busy weeknights and family meals. Juicy chicken thighs simmered in a smoky, sweet BBQ sauce for a comforting dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (e.g., Sweet Baby Ray’s)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ cup water or chicken broth
  • Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a mixing bowl, combine onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken in the spice mix until evenly coated.
  2. In a separate bowl, stir together the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and water or chicken broth. If using, add Worcestershire sauce and red pepper flakes.
  3. Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer in the slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, coating every piece.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
  5. About 15 minutes before serving, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker with two forks if desired. Stir gently to mix the sauce with the shredded meat and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for juiciness; breasts can be used but may dry out faster. Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid during cooking to maintain heat. Adjust sweetness and tang by tasting and modifying brown sugar or vinegar amounts. If sauce is too thin at the end, cook uncovered on high for 10-15 minutes to thicken. Can be made in an Instant Pot on high pressure for 20 minutes with natural release.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken, slow cooker recipe, easy dinner, family meal, chicken thighs, comfort food, crockpot chicken

Find it online: https://lyrafeast.com/cozy-family-bbq-chicken-slow-cooker-recipe-easy-perfect-meal-ideas/