Crock-Pot Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

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When it comes to easy comfort food that fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma and delivers fall-off-the-bone flavor, Crock-Pot Chicken Drumsticks are a timeless favorite. The magic of slow cooking transforms simple chicken legs into juicy, tender bites, infused with rich seasoning and savory sauce. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this recipe checks every box for flavor, simplicity, and satisfaction.

These drumsticks are coated in a tangy and slightly sweet sauce with a touch of spice—perfectly balanced to please both kids and adults. With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing all the heavy lifting, you’re free to go about your day while the chicken cooks to perfection. It’s the ultimate “set-it-and-forget-it” dish that still delivers big-time flavor.

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Ingredients for this Crock-Pot Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

• 2½ to 3 pounds chicken drumsticks (about 10–12 pieces)
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: chopped green onions or parsley

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Step 1: Prepare the Drumsticks

Start by patting the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels—this helps the sauce stick better and ensures the skin doesn’t steam too much. Season the drumsticks lightly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder for a flavorful base.

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Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This blend gives you a rich, tangy, slightly sweet, and smoky flavor profile that clings beautifully to the chicken as it cooks.

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Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Crock-Pot

Place the seasoned drumsticks into the Crock-Pot. Pour the sauce mixture over the top, making sure all the drumsticks are well coated. Use a spoon or tongs to turn them gently, coating every piece.

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Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on Low for 5–6 hours or High for 3–4 hours. The chicken should be tender, juicy, and fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F or 74°C). The sauce will thicken slightly and soak into the chicken beautifully.

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Step 5: Optional Finishing Touch

For a sticky, caramelized finish, transfer the drumsticks to a baking sheet lined with foil after slow cooking. Broil them in the oven for 3–5 minutes until slightly crisped and browned. Spoon extra sauce from the Crock-Pot over them for added flavor and gloss.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 6 servings)

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Sugars: 12g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 520mg

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on the barbecue sauce and portion size used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen drumsticks?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before placing them in the Crock-Pot for even cooking and safety.

2. Can I use boneless chicken?

Absolutely. Boneless thighs or breasts also work well, but reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.

3. Do I have to broil them after slow cooking?

Not at all! Broiling is optional, but it adds a nice texture and color. The drumsticks are perfectly tender and flavorful straight from the Crock-Pot.

4. What’s the best barbecue sauce to use?

Use your favorite! Whether it’s smoky, spicy, or sweet, the sauce you love will shine through in this recipe.

5. Can I add vegetables to the Crock-Pot?

Yes! Try adding chopped onions, bell peppers, or baby potatoes. Just make sure not to overcrowd the pot so the chicken cooks evenly.

6. Is it okay to cook this overnight?

It’s not ideal since most slow cookers finish the job in under 6 hours on low. However, you can use the timer function or a programmable Crock-Pot for safe overnight cooking.

7. What side dishes go well with this?

Mashed potatoes, steamed rice, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables are all great complements to the bold flavors of these drumsticks.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, as long as your Crock-Pot is large enough. Ensure the drumsticks are coated evenly and consider rotating them halfway through for uniform cooking.

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