Description
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!
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
Instructions
- 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 of the chicken.
- 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 aluminum foil. Transfer the chicken thighs to the baking sheet and brush with the remaining ½ cup BBQ sauce. Broil for 3–5 minutes until slightly charred and caramelized. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Serve hot with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or your favorite vegetable side.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts — choose thicker ones to avoid overcooking.
- Broiling enhances flavor and adds a beautiful finish to the chicken.
- Use your favorite BBQ sauce — smoky, spicy, or sweet.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3–4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce
- Calories: 326
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
