I like making Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ Chicken Thighs when I want a flavorful meal that requires very little effort. The slow cooker allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while it absorbs the tangy, slightly sweet flavor of Carolina gold barbecue sauce. With its mustard-based base and rich seasoning, this dish turns simple chicken thighs into a comforting and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to prepare while still delivering bold barbecue flavor. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the chicken to slowly cook until it becomes juicy and tender. I also like the unique taste of Carolina gold barbecue sauce, which combines mustard, vinegar, and sweetness for a balanced flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy days because I can set it up in the morning and have a delicious meal ready later.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
bone-in or boneless chicken thighs
yellow mustard
honey
apple cider vinegar
brown sugar
ketchup
Worcestershire sauce
garlic powder
onion powder
smoked paprika
salt
black pepper
Directions
I start by placing the chicken thighs in the bottom of the crockpot in a single layer.
In a bowl, I whisk together the yellow mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until the sauce becomes smooth and well combined.
I pour the Carolina gold barbecue sauce over the chicken thighs, making sure they are evenly coated.
I cover the crockpot with the lid and cook the chicken on low for about 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Once finished cooking, I gently spoon some of the sauce from the crockpot over the chicken before serving to keep it extra flavorful and juicy.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
Total time: about 6 hours 10 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add sliced onions or garlic cloves to the crockpot for extra depth of flavor. When I want a bit of heat, I mix a small amount of hot sauce or cayenne pepper into the barbecue sauce. Another variation I enjoy is shredding the cooked chicken and serving it on sandwich buns for Carolina gold barbecue chicken sandwiches. I also like adding a splash of pineapple juice for a slightly sweeter twist.
storage/reheating
I store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When I want to keep it longer, I freeze the chicken along with some of the sauce for up to three months.
To reheat, I warm the chicken in a saucepan over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much after storing, I add a small splash of water or broth to loosen it.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
I often use boneless chicken thighs, and they work perfectly in the crockpot. They cook slightly faster but remain very tender and flavorful.
What is Carolina gold barbecue sauce?
Carolina gold barbecue sauce is a mustard-based sauce that originates from South Carolina. I enjoy its tangy flavor that balances mustard, vinegar, and sweetness.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
I can use chicken breasts if I prefer, but I usually reduce the cooking time slightly because chicken breasts can dry out more easily.
Can I thicken the sauce after cooking?
If I want a thicker sauce, I simmer some of the liquid from the crockpot in a small saucepan until it reduces and thickens.
What should I serve with this chicken?
I like serving this chicken with coleslaw, cornbread, roasted vegetables, or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Conclusion
I enjoy preparing Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ Chicken Thighs because the slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a rich and flavorful dish. The tender chicken combined with the tangy mustard barbecue sauce creates a comforting meal that works well for family dinners or casual gatherings. It’s an easy recipe that always delivers delicious results.
