This slow cooker 4-ingredient sweet molasses chicken is the kind of easy main dish that earns a permanent place in the family recipe box. The molasses cooks down with a few pantry staples into a rich, sticky glaze that clings to the chicken and keeps it wonderfully tender, making it perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a simple supper when you want something hearty without a lot of fuss.
Serve this chicken with classic picnic sides like potato salad, baked beans, coleslaw, or sweet corn. It is also lovely spooned over fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or egg noodles to catch every bit of the sauce, and a platter of sliced watermelon or crisp green beans rounds out the meal nicely.
Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Sweet Molasses Chicken
Servings: 6
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup barbecue sauce
1/2 cup molasses
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
Directions
1. Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker if needed, then place the chicken thighs in an even layer in the bottom.
2. In a medium bowl, stir together the barbecue sauce, molasses, and yellow mustard until smooth and fully combined.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken, turning the pieces a little if needed so they are well coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours, until the chicken is very tender and cooked through.
5. Spoon some of the sauce over the top before serving, and if you like a thicker glaze, let the chicken rest in the uncovered slow cooker for a few minutes before plating.
Variations & Tips
For a smokier flavor: Use a hickory or smoky-style barbecue sauce to give the chicken a deeper backyard cookout taste without adding any extra ingredients.
For picky eaters: If your family prefers a milder flavor, choose a sweet and gentle barbecue sauce rather than a spicy one. You can also serve the extra sauce on the side so everyone can add as much or as little as they like.
Use chicken breasts if needed: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can work in place of thighs, but they cook a little leaner, so check them early and avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
Make it picnic-friendly: This chicken holds well on the warm setting for gatherings, and leftovers are delicious tucked into sandwich buns or spooned over rice the next day.
Thicker sauce tip: If you want the glaze even stickier, remove the cooked chicken, pour the sauce into a saucepan, and simmer it on the stove for a few minutes until it reduces, then spoon it back over the chicken.