Weekend Away + Crock Pot BBQ Beer Chicken

We spent the weekend in Cashiers, North Carolina at a friend's mountain house.  We were actually there for a good friend's wedding in Highlands, NC at the Old Edwards Inn but decided to save some money and stay at the cabin.  We ended up really enjoying being in the cabin and took full advantage of the fireplace, beautiful scenery, and down time.  Lots of reading, listening to music, cooking, and hiking took place. 

Pan seared salmon (because the grill ran out of propane!), roasted potatoes + asparagus - seasoned with garlic, paprika, s+p b/c it's all we had up there!  Ended up being a really good meal.

The hike was about 2.5 - 3 miles and just strenuous enough to get our heart rates going.  We thought we were turning into pro hikers until we saw dads carrying their kids on their shoulders on the way down!  There were some really great views from the top and the weather was perfect - probably about 48 - 50* and sunny.

I didn't get any pictures from the wedding but it was one of the most beautiful weddings I've been to in a long time - what an awesome venue and location!  John and I both definitely want to return to this beautiful area which is only 2 and a half hours away from Atlanta.  

We came home yesterday and did the usual unpack, laundry, mail etc routine that comes with returning from being out of town, and I got out the crock pot to make one of my favorite slow cooker recipes - BBQ Beer chicken!!  I can't get enough of the crock pot this fall - especially on Sundays.  It's just such a time saver - I love throwing everything in there and going on with my day!  I've made this recipe two or three times this fall already - it could not be easier and the recipe is SO good.  Please try this while football season is still in full force.  

Crock Pot BBQ Beer Chicken

Serves 2

Recipe source: How Sweet It Is

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs (you could also use breasts - but the thighs are much more tender)

1 teaspoon onion salt

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon pepper

6 oz beer (use a heavy beer - about half the bottle)

12 oz barbecue sauce 

Directions:

Spray the slow cooker with non stick spray.  Place the chicken thighs, season with onion salt, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper.  Pour the beer and barbecue sauce over the chicken and stir.  Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for up to 8 hours.  Shred the chicken and use the remaining sauce in the crock pot to pour on top.  Serve on sandwiches or by itself.