Crockpot Smothered Chicken Legs

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Crockpot Smothered Chicken Legs

Description

Crockpot Smothered Chicken Legs are slow-cooked to tender perfection in a creamy, savory onion gravy. This comfort-food classic delivers bold flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days, Sunday dinners, or cozy family meals. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a satisfying plate every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 8–10 chicken legs (drumsticks)

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (optional, for browning)

For the Gravy

  • 1 large onion, sliced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups chicken broth

  • 1 cup cream of chicken soup

  • ½ cup heavy cream or evaporated milk

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken
    Pat chicken legs dry with paper towels. Season evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and poultry seasoning.

  2. Optional Browning (Recommended)
    Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken legs for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. This step adds depth of flavor but can be skipped if short on time.

  3. Layer the Crockpot
    Add sliced onions and minced garlic to the bottom of the crockpot. Place chicken legs on top.

  4. Make the Gravy
    In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.

  5. Slow Cook
    Pour gravy mixture evenly over the chicken. Cover and cook:

    • Low: 6–7 hours

    • High: 3–4 hours
      Until chicken is tender and nearly falling off the bone.

  6. Serve
    Spoon plenty of gravy over the chicken and serve hot.

Notes

  • The gravy thickens naturally as it cooks. If you want it thicker, leave the lid off for the last 20–30 minutes.

  • Chicken thighs can be used instead of drumsticks.

Tips

  • Browning the chicken adds extra flavor but isn’t required.

  • Slice onions thin so they melt into the gravy.

  • Stir gravy gently before serving to redistribute flavors.

Servings

  • Serves 4–6 people

Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving, based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: ~390

  • Protein: ~28g

  • Fat: ~28g

  • Carbohydrates: ~8g

  • Sodium: ~650mg

(Values may vary depending on brands used.)

Benefits

  • Comfort food classic with minimal prep

  • Budget-friendly using chicken legs

  • Hands-off cooking thanks to the crockpot

  • Great for family meals or leftovers

Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Use dairy-free cream soup and unsweetened plant-based cream alternatives.

Q: What sides go best with this?
A: Mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, green beans, or cornbread.

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