Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, just be sure to keep a close eye on the chicken, and adjust the cooking time as needed. Also, keep in mind that chicken breasts might not turn out as juicy or moist as chicken thighs or caramelize as well once broiled, but they’ll still taste great!

How long do leftovers last?

Leftover chicken will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes! You can store leftover chicken in the freezer for up to 2 -3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight, and enjoy leftovers cold. Or, warm them in the microwave or with extra BBQ sauce in the crockpot set to “warm.”

Crockpot BBQ Chicken Thighs

Description

Prepare these gluten-free crockpot BBQ chicken thighs with just eight simple ingredients for a fuss-free meal that’s tender, juicy, and full of sweet, tangy flavor!

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 to 2.25 lbs (around 6 thighs) skinless and boneless chicken thighs
1 1/2 cups gluten free BBQ sauce or other low sugar BBQ sauce (or our nightshade free bbq sauce)
1.5 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 Tablespoon honey or 100% maple syrup, to taste
2 teaspoon minced garlic or 1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 to 1/4 kosher salt + more for garnish
optional pinch of smoked paprika (1/4 teaspoon)

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Instructions

In a 6 quart crock pot, add the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic, black pepper and salt. Whisk until combined.
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and place in the crockpot. Coat the chicken in the sauce. Place the lid on the crockpot.
Cook on HIGH for 3 to 3½ hours or LOW for 5 to 6 hours, flipping the chicken thighs at least once during cooking if possible. Start checking for doneness around 2½ hours on HIGH or 4 hours on LOW, as cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker.
Remove the thighs and place them on an aluminum foil lined pan. Place in a preheated broiler for 2-3 minutes or air fryer at 400 F for 2-3 minutes. Let the chicken rest for five minutes.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Notes

Storage Tips – Thighs can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 -3 months.

OVEN OPTION: Marinate the chicken thighs in the BBQ sauce mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Arrange the chicken thighs on a parchment-lined or lightly greased baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through and brushing with additional BBQ sauce if desired. Broil for the last 2–3 minutes for caramelized edges. Cook until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

AIR FRYER OPTION: Marinate the chicken thighs in the BBQ sauce mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Spray the basket with cooking oil. Place the chicken thighs smooth-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 7–8 minutes. Flip the thighs and cook another 4–5 minutes, brushing with additional BBQ sauce during the last few minutes if desired. Cook until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: slow cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 thigh with sauce
Calories: 252
Sugar: 12 g
Sodium: 548.2 mg
Fat: 6.2 g
Saturated Fat: 1.6 g
Carbohydrates: 14.7 g
Fiber: 2.1 g
Protein: 31.4 g
Cholesterol: 140.1 mg