Toss fresh boneless skinless chicken thighs in the crock pot with 4 simple pantry staples to get a meal so spectacular your family will be begging for seconds.

This 5-ingredient slow cooker mid-June patriot chicken is one of those toss-it-in-and-go dinners that saves my week on busy workdays. Fresh boneless skinless chicken thighs go straight into the crock pot with just four simple pantry staples: barbecue sauce, ranch seasoning, a touch of brown sugar, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. A few quick chops and you’ve got a colorful, summery, red-white-and-blue-inspired vibe from the vibrant saucy mix around the chicken. It’s perfect for those mid-June evenings when you want something a little festive and family-pleasing without hovering over a hot grill.

Serve this slow cooker patriot chicken piled over fluffy white rice, buttered egg noodles, or toasted brioche buns for a pulled-chicken-style sandwich. Add a simple side like corn on the cob, a green salad, or roasted veggies. It’s also great with potato salad or coleslaw if you’re leaning into that cookout feel. Spoon extra sauce from the slow cooker over the top of the chicken and sides so nothing on the plate goes to waste.

Servings: 6

2 1/2 to 3 pounds fresh boneless skinless chicken thighs

Lightly spray the inside of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray for easier cleanup.

Place the fresh boneless skinless chicken thighs in an even layer on the bottom of the slow cooker, tucking them in so they fit snugly.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, dry ranch seasoning mix, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and well combined. The mixture should look glossy and slightly thick.

Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure all of the chicken is coated. Use a spoon to nudge the sauce between the pieces so the chicken is surrounded by the vibrant, saucy mixture.

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, or on HIGH for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, until the chicken thighs are very tender and reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

Once cooked, use two forks to gently shred or chunk the chicken directly in the slow cooker, stirring it into the surrounding sauce so every piece is coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt or a splash more vinegar if you like a brighter flavor.

Switch the slow cooker to WARM and let the chicken sit for 10 to 15 minutes to soak up more of the sauce before serving. Serve hot with extra sauce spooned over the top.

For a spicier version, use a spicy barbecue sauce or stir 1/2 to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce mixture before pouring it over the chicken. If you prefer a smokier flavor, choose a hickory-smoked barbecue sauce and add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. To make the dish a bit lighter, you can trim any visible fat from the chicken thighs before cooking, or substitute half of the barbecue sauce with low-sodium chicken broth for a thinner, more gravy-like sauce. For meal prep, cook as directed, cool completely, then portion into airtight containers with rice or veggies for grab-and-go lunches; it reheats well in the microwave with a splash of water if needed. Food safety tips: Always start with fresh, fully thawed chicken—never put frozen chicken straight into the slow cooker, as it can stay too long in the temperature “danger zone.” Use a food thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. Refrigerate leftovers in shallow containers within 2 hours of cooking and use within 3 to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat leftovers until steaming hot (165°F) before eating.