Name: Crockpot BBQ Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon dry mustard; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon salt; 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 3 lbs); 1½ cups BBQ sauce, divided

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Tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a smoky dry rub and slow-cooked in BBQ sauce, then finished under the broiler for caramelized perfection. An easy and flavorful dinner with just 5 minutes of prep — perfect for weeknights or laid-back weekends.

Crockpot BBQ Chicken Thighs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hands-off cooking with just 5 minutes of prep.
Bold, smoky flavor from a simple homemade spice rub.
Slow cooking makes the chicken ultra tender.
Optional broiling step adds crispy, caramelized edges.
Pairs well with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or corn.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon salt
8 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 3 lbs)
1½ cups BBQ sauce, divided

Directions

Mix Spices: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, brown sugar, dry mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and salt.
Season Chicken: Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the spice mix evenly over both sides.
Add BBQ Sauce: Brush 1 cup of BBQ sauce over the chicken.
Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
Broil (Optional but Recommended): Preheat your broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with foil. Transfer chicken thighs to the sheet and brush with remaining 1/2 cup BBQ sauce. Broil for 3–5 minutes until caramelized. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Serve: Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or roasted veggies.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours (on LOW) or 2 hours (on HIGH)
Total Time: Up to 4 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 326 kcal per serving

Variations

Chicken Breasts: Substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts; use thick ones to avoid drying out.
Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce.
Honey BBQ: Mix in 2 tablespoons honey with the BBQ sauce for sweetness.
Chipotle Style: Use chipotle powder instead of paprika for smoky heat.
Shredded Chicken: Shred the thighs after cooking for BBQ sandwiches or sliders.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add a little extra BBQ sauce if needed.
Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken (without broiling) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and broil before serving if desired.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?

Yes, but increase the cook time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked.

What kind of BBQ sauce is best?

Use your favorite! Sweet, smoky, or spicy — all work great.

Is broiling necessary?

Not required, but highly recommended for the best flavor and texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, as long as your slow cooker can fit the extra chicken in a single layer.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

It should be 165°F internally and fork-tender.

Can I prep this the night before?

Yes, season and coat the chicken in BBQ sauce, then refrigerate in the slow cooker insert.

What sides go well with BBQ chicken thighs?

Mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, baked beans, coleslaw, or cornbread.

Can I make this without a slow cooker?

Yes, bake covered at 350°F for 30–40 minutes, then broil.

Does the chicken need to be seared first?

No searing is needed thanks to the broiling step.

Can I use store-bought spice rub?

Sure! Use 2–3 tablespoons of your favorite BBQ rub.

Conclusion

Crockpot BBQ chicken thighs are a no-fuss, flavor-packed dinner that the whole family will love. The slow cooker does most of the work, and a quick broil at the end makes these chicken thighs irresistibly caramelized. Serve with your favorite sides for a hearty and delicious meal any night of the week.

Jessica