Why You’ll Love Easy Family‑Friendly Crockpot Dinner Recipe

This recipe is a favorite for families because it’s easy to prepare, uses minimal ingredients, and fills your home with a delicious aroma as it simmers. It’s versatile and kid‑friendly, so even picky eaters will enjoy it. Best of all, you can serve it a few different ways — over rice, on buns, or with sides — making it great for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 lbs boneless chicken thighs
1 cup barbecue sauce
1 onion, chopped
1 cup sliced bell peppers
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Place the chicken thighs into the crockpot.
Pour the barbecue sauce over the chicken, then add the chopped onion and sliced bell peppers.
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir everything together so the chicken is well coated.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot with two forks.
Serve as desired — over rice, in sandwich buns, or alongside your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 6
Prep time: ~15 minutes
Cook time: 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high

Variations

Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts (reduce cooking time slightly).
Add vegetables like zucchini or corn for extra color and nutrition.
Use a smoky or spicy barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile.
Serve with coleslaw on buns for a pulled‑barbecue twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Cool leftovers and place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave in short intervals until heated through, or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or barbecue sauce to keep it moist. You can also reheat in the crockpot on low for 1–2 hours.

FAQs

How do I make this from frozen chicken?

You can use frozen chicken, but it will take longer to cook. Set the crockpot to high and cook about 4–5 hours, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What can I serve with this dish?

Steamed rice, bread, coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a simple side salad all pair well with this meal.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes. Zucchini, corn, carrots, or even black beans can be added for extra texture and flavor.

How can I make this spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix for some heat.

Can I use a different sauce?

Absolutely! Try a honey mustard or teriyaki sauce in place of barbecue for a different twist.

How long does this keep in the fridge?

Stored properly in a sealed container, it will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days.

Is this kid‑friendly?

Yes! The mild barbecue flavors and tender chicken make it appealing for kids and adults alike.

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

You can, but they may dry out faster, so check earlier and adjust cook time accordingly.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.

Can I meal prep this for the week?

Yes — it reheats well, making it perfect for meal planning throughout the week.

Conclusion

This family‑friendly crockpot dinner is a go‑to recipe for busy nights. With simple prep, minimal hands‑on time, and delicious, versatile flavor, it’s an easy dish to return to again and again. Whether served over rice, on buns, or with a fresh side, it’s sure to be a crowd‑pleaser at the dinner table.