If you love BBQ chicken that’s juicy, flavorful, and practically falls apart, this Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs recipe is for you. With a smoky dry rub, sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, and a touch of spice, this dish is the perfect blend of comfort and bold flavor. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or preparing a cozy family dinner, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Busy home cooks who want a set-it-and-forget-it meal.
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BBQ lovers craving tender, saucy chicken without firing up the grill.
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Meal preppers looking for a versatile protein to use in sandwiches, salads, or rice bowls.
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Families who want a comforting dinner with minimal cleanup.
Why It’s Great
✅ Uses budget-friendly chicken thighs, which are juicy and flavorful.
✅ The slow cooker makes it foolproof—no babysitting required.
✅ Perfect for weeknights, game days, or potlucks.
✅ Broiling at the end adds that irresistible smoky-charred finish.
Ingredients
For the Dry Rub:
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1 tablespoon smoked paprika
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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1 teaspoon dry mustard
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
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1 teaspoon salt
For the Chicken:
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8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 3 lbs)
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1½ cups BBQ sauce (divided)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Slow cooker (3–6 quart works best)
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Small mixing bowl (for the rub)
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Measuring spoons and cups
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Tongs
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Baking sheet + foil (if broiling)
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Basting brush
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, brown sugar, dry mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and salt.
2. Season the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over both sides.
3. Add the BBQ Sauce
Brush 1 cup of BBQ sauce over the chicken, coating it well.
4. Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or high for 2 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
5. Broil for Caramelization (Optional but Recommended)
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Preheat your broiler to high.
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Line a baking sheet with foil.
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Transfer cooked chicken to the sheet, brush with the remaining ½ cup BBQ sauce, and broil for 3–5 minutes until caramelized and sticky.
6. Serve & Enjoy
Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted corn, green beans, or coleslaw for the ultimate BBQ feast.
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze cooled chicken in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
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Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F, in the microwave, or simmer gently in a skillet with a splash of BBQ sauce.
FAQ
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Just choose thicker cuts so they don’t dry out.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely—cook, cool, and store. It reheats beautifully.
Q: Do I have to broil the chicken?
Not at all, but broiling adds a caramelized, smoky finish that makes the dish extra delicious.
Q: What BBQ sauce works best?
Any store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce works—sweet, smoky, or spicy, depending on your taste.
Conclusion
These Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs are the perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. With just a few simple steps and minimal hands-on time, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re serving it on game night, at a party, or as a weeknight dinner, this recipe guarantees fall-apart, saucy goodness every single time.
Try it once, and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!
