Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs with Raspberry Chipotle Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 46 reviews

Tender and flavorful slow cooker BBQ chicken thighs infused with a smoky garlic and paprika rub, finished with a luscious raspberry chipotle BBQ sauce that is broiled to a perfect crispy glaze.

  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 6 chicken thighs with skin and bone
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter

BBQ Sauce

  • 2 cups Raspberry Chipotle BBQ sauce (divided)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning evenly over both sides of each chicken thigh to ensure full flavor.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the seasoned chicken thighs skin side down and cook until the skin is browned and crispy, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in flavors and adds texture. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place into the slow cooker with the skin side up.
  3. Add Butter and BBQ Sauce: Place a slice of butter on top of each chicken thigh. Pour 1¾ cups of the Raspberry Chipotle BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken. Reserve the remaining ¼ cup of BBQ sauce for broiling later.
  4. Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads at least 165ºF. This slow cooking process makes the chicken juicy and flavorful.
  5. Broil for a Crispy Finish: Once cooked, transfer the chicken thighs to a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Preheat the oven broiler. Brush the reserved ¼ cup BBQ sauce over the chicken and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and crisped to form a delicious glaze.

Notes

  • For best results, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and moisture retention.
  • If you prefer spicier chicken, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
  • You can prepare the seasoning mix and sear the chicken the day before and refrigerate overnight to enhance the flavor.
  • Be careful when broiling; keep a close eye to avoid burning the BBQ sauce.
  • Serve with a side of coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American