Crock Pot Chicken Drumsticks

Crock Pot Chicken Drumsticks are an effortless and flavorful way to prepare tender, juicy chicken that practically falls off the bone. With a slow cooker doing all the work, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family gatherings. Whether seasoned simply or coated in your favorite sauce, these drumsticks are sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.
• Juicy and Tender: The low-and-slow method ensures perfectly cooked drumsticks.
• Customizable: Use any seasoning blend or sauce to match your taste.
• Kid-Friendly: Drumsticks are fun to eat and loved by all ages.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken drumsticks
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, or parsley)
• BBQ sauce, teriyaki sauce, or honey mustard (optional for coating)

Directions

this recipe

1. Prep the Drumsticks

1. Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Rub them with olive oil to help the seasoning stick.

2. Season the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried herbs.
2. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the drumsticks, rubbing it in for full coverage.

3. Arrange in the Crock Pot

1. Place the seasoned drumsticks in the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer if possible.

4. Cook

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).

5. Optional Glaze

1. If desired, brush the drumsticks with your favorite sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking or transfer them to a baking sheet, coat with sauce, and broil in the oven for 3–5 minutes for a caramelized finish.

6. Serve

1. Serve the drumsticks hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves 4–6
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5–6 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
• Total Time: Up to 6 hours and 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning for a kick.
• Sweet and Tangy: Use a honey mustard or orange marmalade glaze.
• Asian-Inspired: Season with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, and finish with teriyaki sauce.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs to the slow cooker for aromatic flavor.
• Crispy Skin: Broil the drumsticks in the oven after slow cooking to crisp up the skin.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave, oven, or air fryer until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked drumsticks in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen drumsticks?

Yes, but thaw them completely before seasoning and cooking for even results.

2. Do I need to sear the drumsticks first?

It’s optional. Searing adds color and flavor but is not necessary for delicious results.

3. Can I layer the drumsticks in the slow cooker?

Yes, but keep the layers minimal for even cooking.

4. How do I prevent soggy skin?

To crisp up the skin, broil the drumsticks in the oven for a few minutes after cooking.

5. Can I cook other cuts of chicken with drumsticks?

Yes, thighs or wings work well, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

6. What sauces work best for this recipe?

BBQ sauce, teriyaki, honey mustard, buffalo sauce, or even a garlic butter glaze are great options.

7. How do I know the drumsticks are done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

8. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes, add potatoes, carrots, or onions to cook alongside the chicken for a complete meal.

9. What can I do with leftovers?

Shred the meat for sandwiches, salads, or tacos.

10. Is it okay to cook on high instead of low?

Yes, but the low setting is preferred for maximum tenderness.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Chicken Drumsticks are a stress-free, flavorful meal option that the whole family will love. With minimal effort and endless ways to customize, this recipe is bound to become a go-to favorite in your rotation. Try it out and enjoy tender, juicy drumsticks with your favorite sides!

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