Slow Cooker Drumsticks

Slow Cooker Drumsticks are the ultimate effortless comfort food. Juicy, fall-off-the-bone chicken legs are slow-cooked in a flavorful sauce until tender and delicious. Whether you like them sweet, tangy, smoky, or spicy, this easy recipe delivers big flavor with minimal prep—perfect for weeknight dinners, game day, or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hands-off and incredibly easy to prepare
• The meat becomes juicy, tender, and flavorful
• Great for feeding a crowd on a budget
• Versatile flavors—from BBQ to buffalo to honey garlic
• Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly

Ingredients

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

• Chicken drumsticks (skin-on or skinless)
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Your favorite sauce: BBQ, buffalo, teriyaki, honey garlic, or homemade
• Optional: chopped parsley or green onion for garnish

Directions

this recipe

1. Pat drumsticks dry with paper towels and place in a large bowl.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Arrange drumsticks in the slow cooker in a single layer as much as possible.
4. Pour or brush your chosen sauce over the drumsticks, reserving some for later if desired.
5. Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
6. Optional: For crispy skin, transfer drumsticks to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 2–4 minutes after slow cooking.
7. Brush with extra sauce before serving and garnish with parsley or green onions.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5–6 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
Total time: About 5–6 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)

Variations

• Use buffalo sauce for spicy drumsticks
• Try honey garlic sauce for a sweet and savory combo
• Use teriyaki for an Asian twist
• Add sliced onions or bell peppers to cook alongside the chicken
• Use a dry rub and skip the sauce for a more classic BBQ-style

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet, oven, or microwave until heated through. For crispy skin, reheat under the broiler.
You can also freeze cooked drumsticks for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen drumsticks?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking and better seasoning coverage.

Do I need to sear the drumsticks first?

No, but you can for extra flavor and texture if desired.

How do I make the skin crispy?

Broil the drumsticks for a few minutes after slow cooking to crisp up the skin.

What’s the best sauce for this recipe?

BBQ is a classic choice, but buffalo, teriyaki, and honey garlic all work well.

Can I use chicken thighs or wings instead?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the cut and size.

Do I need to add liquid to the slow cooker?

Not necessarily—drumsticks release natural juices, and the sauce helps keep them moist.

Can I cook these on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for 3–4 hours, but low heat results in more tender meat.

Are these good for meal prep?

Absolutely. They store and reheat well, making them great for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F, and the meat should be very tender.

Can I cook vegetables with the drumsticks?

Yes, add hearty vegetables like potatoes or carrots at the bottom of the slow cooker so they cook evenly.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Drumsticks are an easy, budget-friendly way to serve up a flavorful, satisfying meal with hardly any effort. Whether you’re using BBQ sauce, buffalo, or honey garlic, these drumsticks cook to perfection every time. Just set it, forget it, and enjoy juicy chicken that falls right off the bone—ideal for any night of the week.

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