Go Back
Crockpot BBQ chicken dish with tender, juicy chicken and savory barbecue sauce.

Easy Crockpot BBQ Chicken

This foolproof Crockpot BBQ Chicken recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone tender and flavorful chicken every time. The secret lies in the balanced sauce and the low, slow cooking process.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3-4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • small bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

  1. Place the chicken thighs in a crockpot.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure the thighs are evenly coated.
  4. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
  5. Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot, then stir to combine with the sauce.
  6. Serve the Crockpot BBQ Chicken on buns, over mashed potatoes, or with your favorite sides.

Notes

For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as they stay moist and tender throughout the long cooking process. The combination of BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar is the key to a thick, flavorful glaze that perfectly coats the chicken. The low, gentle heat of the crockpot is essential for breaking down the connective tissues and allowing the flavors to meld together. Shredding the chicken directly in the crockpot ensures that the meat is evenly coated in the sauce and ready to serve.