Name: Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ: 7 Flavorful Recipes to Try
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon oil; ¾ cup yellow mustard; ¼ cup honey; ¼ cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Jump to Recipe

Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ has become a staple in my kitchen, especially when I crave something delicious yet effortless. This recipe features tender chicken thighs smothered in a rich, tangy mustard-based sauce that embodies the traditional Southern flavors of Carolina Gold BBQ. Each bite is an explosion of flavor, with the sweetness from honey and brown sugar perfectly balancing the tanginess of yellow mustard. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ

This Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ chicken recipe is not just easy to prepare; it’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Here are a few reasons to love it:

Effortless preparation with a slow cooker.
Rich, tangy flavors from the homemade Carolina Gold BBQ sauce.
Healthy and gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets.
Perfect for meal prep or family gatherings.
A versatile dish that pairs well with sides like coleslaw or baked beans.
Low and slow cooking ensures juicy, tender chicken every time.

This recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the traditional Carolina Gold BBQ flavors without the fuss.

Ingredients for Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ

Gather these items:

6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon oil
¾ cup yellow mustard
¼ cup honey
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

How to Make Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ Step-by-Step

Step 1: Season the chicken thighs evenly on both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the thighs skin-side down until the skin is golden and crisped up.
Step 3: Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker, placing it skin-side up.
Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the mustard, honey, brown sugar, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
Step 5: Pour the sauce around the chicken rather than directly over the skin so it stays intact while cooking.
Step 6: Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours, until the chicken is tender.
Step 7: During the last 30 minutes, uncover the slow cooker to let the sauce thicken slightly before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ

Keep these in mind:

Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in moisture.
Serve with coleslaw or baked beans for a complete meal.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight before cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ

There are countless ways to enjoy your Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ. Here are some ideas:

Serve the chicken on a toasted bun for a delicious BBQ sandwich.
Pair it with a side of creamy coleslaw for a classic Southern meal.
Use the BBQ as a filling for tacos topped with fresh cilantro and lime.

How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ

To store your leftover Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. This dish is perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ

What’s the secret to perfect Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ?

The secret lies in the slow cooking method and using bone-in chicken thighs, which ensure juicy, flavorful meat. The Carolina Gold BBQ sauce adds a uniquely tangy and sweet flavor profile that makes this dish shine.

Can I make Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce the night before, marinate it, and simply place it in the crockpot in the morning. This makes for a delicious and easy dinner after a long day.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ?

One common mistake is not searing the chicken before slow cooking. This step adds depth of flavor that enhances your BBQ. Also, avoid cooking on high; low and slow yields the best results.

Variations of Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ You Can Try

If you want to mix things up, here are a few variations:

Substitute chicken thighs for pork shoulder for a classic Carolina Gold pulled pork recipe.
Try using different meats like ribs or brisket with the same sauce for a unique twist.
For a healthier option, use skinless chicken thighs or breast meat.

With these variations, you can keep your Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ exciting and fresh every time you prepare it!