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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American