Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken
Of all the recipes I make in my slow cooker, this is my favorite. If you like your barbecue sweet with a little spice, this will be your new favorite, too.
Of all the recipes I make in my slow cooker, this is my favorite. If you like your barbecue sweet with a little spice, this will be your new favorite, too.
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 teaspoons worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 6 chicken leg quarters skin removed
- 4 teaspoons minced fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- Carbohydrate 9.61745630272937 g
- Cholesterol 23.1016666666667 mg
- Fat 4.57027315303967 g
- Fiber 0.0907473885606112 g
- Protein 5.40772709434252 g
- Saturated Fat 1.11435619533389 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (69g)
- Sodium 248.848953636189 mg
- Sugar 9.52670891416876 g
- Trans Fat 0.381616197765677 g
- Calories 100 calories
Step-by-step
- Using a sharp knife, cut through the joint of each leg quarter to separate into two pieces.
- Place chicken in a 4-qt. slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, orange juice, brown sugar, vinegar, oil, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt and pepper; pour over chicken.
- Cook, covered, on low 5-6 hours or until meat is tender.
- Remove chicken to a serving platter; keep warm.
- Skim fat from cooking juices; pour into a measuring cup to measure 2 cups.
- Transfer to a small saucepan; bring to a boil.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth; stir into cooking juices.
- Return to a boil, stirring constantly; cook and stir 1-2 minutes or until thickened.
- Serve with chicken.
My Favorite Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and satisfying meals can be a real challenge. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework help, and the never-ending to-do list. That's why I rely heavily on my trusty slow cooker. It's my secret weapon for creating flavorful, comforting meals with minimal effort. And this slow cooker BBQ chicken recipe? It's an absolute winner in my household.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. It requires minimal prep time – just a little chopping and mixing – and then you let the slow cooker do all the work. The result is incredibly tender, juicy chicken, bathed in a rich and tangy BBQ sauce. The flavors meld beautifully over the slow cooking process, creating a depth that's hard to match with quicker cooking methods. The sweetness of the brown sugar balances perfectly with the tang of the vinegar and the subtle spice from the garlic salt and pepper, making this a truly irresistible dish.
I love to serve this BBQ chicken with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. It also pairs well with a simple green salad for a complete and balanced meal. Leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it a perfect meal-prep option for busy weeknights. I often double the recipe and have enough for lunch throughout the week. The chicken can be used in sandwiches, salads, or tacos – the possibilities are endless!
Beyond the Weeknight Meal
This recipe isn't just for weeknight dinners; it's also perfect for entertaining. It’s easy to scale up to feed a crowd, and the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, freeing you up to spend time with your guests. Imagine the aroma filling your home as the chicken simmers away, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for your gathering. Serve it with all the fixings – coleslaw, corn on the cob, potato salad – and you've got yourself a feast that everyone will love.
A Culinary Journey
My love for slow cooker recipes started a few years ago when I was juggling a demanding job and a young family. I needed meal solutions that were both nutritious and easy to prepare. The slow cooker became my best friend, allowing me to create healthy and delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen. This BBQ chicken recipe is one of my earliest slow cooker successes, and it remains a family favorite to this day. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients and slow cooking, transforming humble chicken leg quarters into a truly memorable meal.
Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces or add your own personal touch. A dash of hot sauce can add a little kick, while a sprinkle of smoked paprika adds a smoky depth of flavor. You can also substitute chicken thighs for leg quarters, or even use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability; feel free to tailor it to your own taste and preferences.
So, the next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal, give this slow cooker BBQ chicken recipe a try. You won't be disappointed. It’s a weeknight lifesaver, a crowd-pleasing party dish, and a testament to the magic of slow cooking.
Ingredients You'll Need
This recipe is incredibly simple, using pantry staples and readily available ingredients. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store.
Serving Suggestions
The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to serving this delicious slow cooker BBQ chicken. Here are a few of my favorite ideas:
- Serve it over rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Use it in tacos or burritos for a fun and flavorful twist.
- Make BBQ chicken sandwiches for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
- Add it to salads for a boost of protein and flavor.
- Serve it with coleslaw and corn on the cob for a classic BBQ feast.
No matter how you choose to serve it, this slow cooker BBQ chicken is sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy!
