Easy Dump-and-Go Crockpot Chicken Thighs Recipe with Pantry BBQ Sauce
A simple, no-fuss slow cooker recipe using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and pantry staple BBQ sauce for a flavorful, tender meal perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours low or 3-4 hours high
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 7 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3 hours 10 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes (high)
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (2–3 pounds / 900 g – 1.4 kg)
- 1 cup (240 ml) pantry BBQ sauce (e.g., Sweet Baby Ray’s or Kraft)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste (start with ½ teaspoon each)
- ¼ cup (60 ml) water or chicken broth
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper (about ½ teaspoon each).
- In a mixing bowl, combine BBQ sauce, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and water or chicken broth. Stir well.
- Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up in a single layer at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Pour the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, coating each piece.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- Optional: For crispier skin, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet skin-side up and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes, watching closely.
- Serve warm with sauce spooned over the chicken.
Notes
Patting chicken dry helps sauce stick and prevents soggy texture. For crispier skin, broil after slow cooking. Adjust seasoning after cooking to taste. If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth. Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for best results. Boneless thighs cook faster and may dry out.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 28
Keywords: slow cooker chicken, crockpot chicken thighs, BBQ chicken, easy dinner, dump and go recipe, pantry staples, comfort food