Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken, skin-side down, and sear until the skin is golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is not about cooking the chicken through but about adding a layer of flavor and texture.
- Make the BBQ Sauce Mixture: In a bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk until well combined.
- Slow Cook: Place the browned chicken pieces into the slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
- Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker, placing it on a serving platter. If you desire a thicker sauce, pour the sauce from the slow cooker into a saucepan and simmer until it’s reduced to your liking. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Drizzle the thickened BBQ sauce over the chicken and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions for a touch of freshness and color.
Closing Thoughts:
This Succulent Slow-Cooked BBQ Chicken is a testament to the joys of slow cooking, where time and low heat meld together the flavors and textures into something truly special. It’s a dish that beckons everyone to the table, inviting them to relax and enjoy the tender, flavorful chicken that’s been lovingly prepared. Serve this dish with sides of coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a simple green salad, and you’ve got a feast that celebrates the heartwarming, communal spirit of good food. So gather your loved ones, share this delicious meal, and relish the moments of togetherness that make life so sweet.
