SAUCY BBQ CHICKEN THIGHS

Barbecued chicken gets a makeover in this recipe. The combination of ingredients makes for a mellow, not-too-sweet flavor that’s more grown-up than the original. It’s great over rice, pasta or potatoes.

—SHARON FRITZ MORRISTOWN, TN



PREP: 15 MIN. • COOK: 5 HOURS • MAKES: 6 SERVINGS


6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1 1/2 pounds)

1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning

1 medium onion, chopped

1 can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce

1/2 cup barbecue sauce

1/4 cup orange juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

3/4 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon hot pepper sauce

1/4 teaspoon pepper

Hot cooked brown rice, optional

1. Place chicken in a 3-qt. slow cooker; sprinkle with poultry seasoning. Top with onion and tomatoes. In a small bowl, mix tomato sauce, barbecue sauce, orange juice and seasonings; pour over top.

2. Cook, covered, on low 5-6 hours or until the chicken is tender. If desired, serve with rice.

To freeze: Place the cooked chicken mixture in freezer containers. Cool and freeze. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Microwave, covered, on high in a microwave-safe dish until heated through, gently stirring and adding a little water if necessary.