Name: BBQ Ranch Crockpot Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Ingredients: 6-8 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless); 1 cup BBQ sauce; 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 3 tbsp homemade); 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup chicken broth; 1 tbsp olive oil; Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions

These BBQ Ranch Crockpot Chicken Thighs are the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender, juicy chicken coated in a flavorful blend of tangy BBQ sauce and creamy ranch seasoning. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy slow-cooker recipe ensures a delicious, hands-off meal that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser for your family.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Sear First (Optional): For extra flavor and crispy edges, sear the chicken thighs in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot.
Layer Ingredients: Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the crockpot to ensure even cooking.
Thicken Sauce: For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
Low and Slow: For the most tender chicken, use the low setting on your crockpot.
Fresh Garnishes: Top with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and added flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce with the creamy tang of ranch seasoning, creating a dish that’s rich, comforting, and irresistibly flavorful. The slow-cooker method makes it effortless, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your dinner cooks to perfection. It’s versatile, kid-friendly, and perfect for meal prep.

Yield: Serves 4

BBQ Ranch Crockpot Chicken Thighs

Slow-cooked BBQ Ranch Chicken Thighs are tender, juicy, and packed with smoky, creamy flavors—a family-friendly dinner favorite.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

6-8 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 3 tbsp homemade)
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup chicken broth
1 tbsp olive oil
Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. If desired, season with salt and pepper and sear in a hot skillet with olive oil until golden brown.
Layer the Crockpot: Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the crockpot.
Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine BBQ sauce, ranch seasoning mix, garlic, and chicken broth. Pour the mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Optional Thickening: For a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
Serve and Garnish: Serve the chicken thighs warm, topped with fresh parsley or green onions. Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side salad.

Notes

Always check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
Adjust salt levels based on the BBQ sauce and ranch seasoning used.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 733Total Fat 40gSaturated Fat 11gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 28gCholesterol 334mgSodium 1852mgCarbohydrates 34gFiber 1gSugar 25gProtein 63g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredient Notes

Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs add more flavor, but boneless, skinless thighs work too for a leaner option.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade BBQ sauce. Smoky, honey, or spicy varieties work well.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: A store-bought packet saves time, but you can use homemade ranch seasoning for a personalized touch.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor profile of the sauce.
Optional Additions: A splash of apple cider vinegar or a dash of smoked paprika can enhance the overall flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts, pork chops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Sauce Options: Experiment with honey mustard, teriyaki, or buffalo sauce for different flavor profiles.
Spice Level: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Dietary Adjustments: Use sugar-free BBQ sauce for a keto-friendly meal or dairy-free ranch seasoning for dietary restrictions.
Vegetable Additions: Add baby potatoes, carrots, or onions to the crockpot for a complete one-pot meal.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freezer: Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Meal Prep: Portion the chicken and sauce into individual containers with rice or vegetables for easy grab-and-go lunches.