Name: Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ: 6 Secrets to Perfect Flavor
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

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Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich, tangy flavors of mustard-based barbecue sauce with tender, juicy chicken thighs. This easy recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is sure to please everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ

This recipe for Carolina Gold BBQ in a crockpot is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

It’s a hands-off meal that cooks itself.
The chicken thighs become incredibly tender and juicy.
The mustard-based sauce adds a unique twist that’s both sweet and tangy.
It’s gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of diets.
This easy crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ recipe is perfect for gatherings or tailgating.
It pairs well with a variety of sides, making it versatile for any meal.

These factors combine to make this dish one of the best crockpot recipes for Carolina Gold BBQ.

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.
Step 2: Heat the 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.
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.

Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ: 6 Secrets to Perfect Flavor - Crockpot Carolina Gold Bbq - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ

Keep these in mind:

Don’t rush the searing step; it builds incredible flavor.
Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for the best texture.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey.

Best Ways to Serve Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ

Here are some great serving ideas:

Serve the chicken on a toasted bun for a delicious slider.
Pair it with coleslaw for a classic Southern meal.
Use it as a filling for tacos topped with avocado and cilantro.

How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. The chicken can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. For meal prep, this dish is perfect as it holds well in the fridge for several days.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ

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

The secret lies in searing the chicken thighs prior to slow cooking. This step locks in flavors and creates a deliciously crispy skin that enhances the overall texture of the dish.

Can I make Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving for the best results.

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

To avoid dryness, ensure the chicken is cooked low and slow. Overcooking can lead to tough meat, so stick to the recommended cooking time and check for tenderness.

Variations of Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ You Can Try

Looking to mix things up? Here are some variations:

Try using pork instead of chicken for a Carolina Gold BBQ pulled pork in a slow cooker.
Make it spicier by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
For a smoky flavor, incorporate chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.

These variations keep the dish fresh and exciting while maintaining its Southern roots.

Crockpot Carolina Gold BBQ: 6 Secrets to Perfect Flavor - Crockpot Carolina Gold Bbq - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Crockpot Butter Chicken for a different flavor experience. If you’re interested in desserts, don’t miss our Mini Cranberry Cheesecakes that are perfect for gatherings.