Get ready to transform ordinary chicken thighs into a flavor-packed masterpiece that will have everyone at your dinner table begging for seconds! This slow-cooked BBQ chicken recipe is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender, fall-off-the-bone meat with a rich, tangy BBQ sauce that will make your kitchen smell like a gourmet barbecue restaurant. Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend culinary enthusiast, this foolproof recipe promises restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, 1 cup of BBQ sauce, 1 sliced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Rinse the chicken thighs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture.
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden brown.
- Flip the chicken thighs and sear the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes. This step adds flavor through caramelization.
- While the chicken is searing, prepare the slow cooker. Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. This will create a flavorful base for the chicken to cook in.
- Once the chicken is seared, transfer the thighs to the slow cooker, placing them on top of the onions and garlic.
- Pour 1 cup of BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. You can reserve a small amount of BBQ sauce for serving later if desired.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking method will make the chicken tender and flavorful.
- After 6 hours, check the chicken for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) and the meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and place them on a serving platter. You can shred the chicken with two forks if you prefer pulled BBQ chicken.
- Optional: If you like a thicker BBQ sauce, you can transfer the cooking liquid from the slow cooker to a saucepan and simmer it over medium heat until it reduces to your desired consistency.
- Serve the BBQ chicken hot, drizzled with additional BBQ sauce if desired, alongside your favorite sides such as coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans.
Tips
- Searing is Essential: Always take the time to sear your chicken before slow cooking. This extra step creates a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in flavor and adds depth to your final dish.
- Choose the Right BBQ Sauce: Select a high-quality BBQ sauce that complements the chicken. If you're feeling adventurous, try mixing two different sauces for a unique flavor profile.
- Don't Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Ensure the chicken thighs are placed in a single layer to allow even cooking and maximum sauce coverage.
- Temperature Matters: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C) for food safety and optimal tenderness.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum moisture and flavor.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is perfect for batch cooking. The chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 290kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 90mg
