Ah, summer! The sun is shining, the days are longer, and the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where my love for summer crockpot recipes comes in! There’s something magical about tossing a few ingredients into a pot and letting them simmer all day while I soak up the sun. This recipe for barbecue chicken thighs is one of my absolute favorites. It’s bursting with fresh summer flavors, and the best part? You can just set it and forget it! Trust me, when you come home to that tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen, you’ll be counting the minutes until dinner. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients List
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, grab your trusty crockpot and place the chicken thighs right at the bottom. It’s like the cozy bed for your chicken!
- Now, pour in that luscious barbecue sauce. Don’t be shy—make sure the chicken is well coated! This is where all the flavor magic happens.
- Next, toss in the corn, diced bell peppers, chopped onion, minced garlic, and cumin. Wow, it’s already looking colorful and delicious!
- Season everything generously with salt and pepper. This is your chance to adjust the flavor to your liking, so trust your taste buds!
- Give it a good stir to combine all those fabulous ingredients together. It’s like a summer party in your pot!
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours. Seriously, just let it do its thing while you enjoy your day.
- When it’s time to eat, take off the lid and shred the chicken with two forks right in the pot. It should be tender and pull apart easily. Yum!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time: You can whip this up in just 15 minutes! Toss everything in the crockpot and you’re done.
- Minimal clean-up: With just one pot to clean, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.
- Full of summer flavors: The combination of barbecue sauce, fresh veggies, and tender chicken is the essence of summer on a plate.
- Healthy and gluten-free option: This dish is packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice that everyone can enjoy.
Tips for Success
To make sure you get the most out of this fabulous summer crockpot recipe, here are some tried-and-true tips I swear by:
- Coat that chicken: Ensure your chicken thighs are evenly coated in barbecue sauce. It really helps lock in the flavor and moisture, so don’t skip this step!
- Know your crockpot: Cooking times can vary depending on your specific crockpot model. If you’ve got a newer one, it might cook faster, so check for doneness a bit earlier, around the 6-hour mark.
- Layer wisely: If you’re adding any extra veggies, toss those on top of the chicken. This helps them steam nicely without getting mushy.
- Adjust the seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste as you go! Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or even a splash of hot sauce for a kick. You’re the chef here!
- Let it rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for about 10 minutes before shredding the chicken. This helps the flavors meld together even more!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious, hassle-free meal that’ll impress everyone at your table. Enjoy the summer vibes!
Variations
The beauty of summer crockpot recipes is their flexibility! Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, feel free to get creative. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Switch up the protein: If you’re in the mood for something different, try using beef chunks or pork instead of chicken. They’ll soak up the barbecue sauce beautifully, too!
- Go vegetarian: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh to create a hearty, plant-based option. Just make sure to press the tofu first to get rid of excess moisture!
- Mix in different veggies: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite seasonal vegetables! Zucchini, diced tomatoes, or even sweet potatoes can elevate the dish and add more nutrients.
- Spice it up: For a little heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with different barbecue sauce flavors—try a spicy or smoky version!
- Herb it up: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add a bright finish. Just sprinkle them on top just before serving to keep that fresh flavor!
These variations keep things interesting and allow you to customize the dish to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Enjoy experimenting and making this recipe your own!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to summer crockpot recipes, it’s always nice to know what you’re serving up, right? Here’s the estimated nutritional information for this delicious barbecue chicken thighs recipe. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes:
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
This dish is not just flavorful but also packs a nutritious punch! With a good balance of protein and fiber, it’s a fantastic choice for a wholesome summer meal. Enjoy every bite knowing it’s good for you, too!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers? Yes, please! This barbecue chicken recipe is just as delicious the next day, so let’s make sure you store it properly. Here’s how:
- Storing: Once your meal is finished, let the chicken cool down a bit. Then, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s tightly sealed, so it doesn’t dry out!
- Freezing: If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the leftovers! Portion them into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, and they’ll last for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Now, let’s talk about reheating so you can savor that flavor all over again!
- Microwave: For a quick reheat, simply pop your portion in the microwave. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to keep the moisture in. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until it’s warmed through.
- Stovetop: If you’ve got a bit more time, reheat it on the stovetop. Just add the chicken to a skillet over medium heat, and stir occasionally until it’s hot. You might want to splash in a bit of water or extra barbecue sauce to keep it juicy!
- Crockpot: You can even reheat it in the crockpot! Just add the chicken with a splash of water or sauce, cover, and heat on low for about an hour or until warmed through. It’s perfect for keeping it nice and tender.
With these tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy your delicious summer crockpot meal again and again! Happy eating!
FAQ Section
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries I hear about this fantastic summer crockpot recipe:
Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken thighs, but just keep in mind that they might need a bit more cooking time. If you’re starting with frozen, I’d recommend cooking on low for about 8-10 hours to ensure they’re thoroughly cooked and tender.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Oh, there are so many delicious options! I love serving this barbecue chicken with fluffy rice or warm tortillas for a fun wrap. You could also whip up a refreshing coleslaw or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the chicken. Grilled corn on the cob is another perfect summer side that complements the flavors beautifully!
How can I make it spicier?
If you’re looking to kick up the heat, there are a few easy ways to do it! You can add some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the crockpot along with the other ingredients. A sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce mixed into the barbecue sauce is also a great way to get that spicy kick. Just remember to taste as you go, so you get it just right for your personal heat level!
Feel free to reach out with any other questions you might have! I’m here to help you create the best summer meals with ease.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious barbecue chicken thighs ready, let’s talk about what to serve alongside to elevate your meal even more! Trust me, the right sides can take your summer feast to the next level.
- Fluffy Rice: A classic choice! Serve it alongside to soak up all that tasty barbecue sauce. You can even jazz it up with some herbs or a squeeze of lime for a fresh twist.
- Warm Tortillas: Grab some soft tortillas and turn your chicken into mouthwatering wraps! Add a sprinkle of cheese, some fresh veggies, and a drizzle of ranch or avocado dressing for an extra punch.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Nothing says summer like corn on the cob! Toss it on the grill while your chicken is cooking, and enjoy that sweet, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the barbecue.
- Refreshing Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw can balance out the richness of the chicken beautifully. Plus, it adds that nice crunch we all love!
- Simple Green Salad: Toss together a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a healthy, refreshing side that complements the meal.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is always a hit at summer gatherings! The cool, creamy texture pairs fantastically with the warm, savory chicken.
Feel free to mix and match these sides to create your perfect summer plate. Whatever you choose, I guarantee it’ll be a delightful feast that makes the most of those sunny days! Enjoy!
Print
Summer Crockpot Recipes: 7 Delicious Must-Try Dishes
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A collection of easy summer recipes for your crockpot.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken thighs in the crockpot.
- Add barbecue sauce, corn, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and cumin.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Shred chicken before serving.
Notes
- Serve with rice or tortillas.
- Can substitute chicken with beef or tofu.
- Adjust spice level as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: summer crockpot recipes
