Crock Pot Chicken Drumsticks

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Crock Pot Chicken Drumsticks

 Description

Crock Pot Chicken Drumsticks are an easy, flavor-packed meal made with minimal prep and maximum comfort. Tender chicken drumsticks slow-cooked in a savory, slightly sweet, well-seasoned sauce turn juicy and fall-off-the-bone delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd—this recipe is truly “set it and forget it.”

Ingredients

  • 8–10 chicken drumsticks (skin on or off)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning)

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • ¾ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ cup barbecue sauce (or honey garlic / teriyaki sauce)

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken
    Pat drumsticks dry. In a bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub seasoning evenly over chicken.

  2. Optional Browning (Recommended)
    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown drumsticks 2–3 minutes per side for extra flavor.

  3. Add to Crock Pot
    Place drumsticks in the slow cooker. Pour barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and honey evenly over the chicken.

  4. Cook

    • Low: 5–6 hours

    • High: 3–4 hours
      Chicken should be tender and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

  5. Optional Crisp Finish
    Transfer drumsticks to a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes to crisp the skin.

 Servings

Serves: 4–5
Serving Size: 2 drumsticks

 Notes

  • Sauce thickens naturally as it cooks.

  • Drumsticks release juices—no added liquid needed.

  • Skin-on chicken gives richer flavor; skinless is leaner.

Tips & Variations

  • Honey Garlic Version: Use honey + minced garlic + soy sauce.

  • Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or hot sauce.

  • BBQ Swap: Try smoky, sweet, or sugar-free BBQ sauce.

  • Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps well 3–4 days refrigerated.

  • Freezer Option: Freeze cooked drumsticks up to 2 months.

 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 320

  • Protein: 26g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Carbohydrates: 12g

  • Sugar: 9g

  • Sodium: 620mg

(Values vary by sauce and seasoning used)

 Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Supports muscle and fullness

  • Slow-Cooked: Keeps chicken juicy without frying

  • Budget-Friendly: Affordable, family-style protein

  • Versatile: Works with many sauces and diets

 Recipe Q & A

Q: Can I put frozen drumsticks in the crock pot?
A: It’s best to thaw first for food safety and even cooking.

Q: Do I need to add liquid?
A: No—chicken releases its own juices during cooking.

Q: Can I use other chicken cuts?
A: Yes! Thighs work great; breasts cook faster and may be drier.

Q: How do I make it crisp without an oven?
A: Use a hot skillet for a quick sear after cooking.

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