Crockpot Smothered Chicken Legs

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🍗 Crockpot Smothered Chicken Legs

📖 Description

Crockpot Smothered Chicken Legs are tender, fall-off-the-bone drumsticks slow-cooked in a rich, savory onion gravy. This comforting dish delivers deep Southern-style flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or cozy weekend meals. The slow cooker does all the work while locking in moisture and flavor.

🛒 Ingredients

  • 6–8 chicken legs (drumsticks), skin-on or skinless

  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup chicken broth

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp dried thyme

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • Optional: ½ tsp cayenne pepper (for heat)

  • Optional thickener: 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken
    Pat chicken legs dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.

  2. Optional Browning (Recommended)
    Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken legs for 2–3 minutes per side for added flavor.

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

  4. Make the Gravy
    In a bowl, whisk chicken broth and cream of chicken soup until smooth. Pour over chicken.

  5. Slow Cook
    Cover and cook:

    • Low: 6–7 hours

    • High: 3–4 hours

  6. Thicken (Optional)
    If a thicker gravy is desired, stir in cornstarch slurry during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking.

  7. Serve
    Spoon gravy over chicken and serve hot.

📝 Notes

  • Removing the skin reduces fat content.

  • Boneless chicken thighs can be substituted with a shorter cook time.

  • Browning the chicken adds depth but can be skipped if short on time.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t overcrowd the crockpot—keep chicken in a single layer if possible.

  • Use low sodium soup and broth to control salt levels.

  • Stir the gravy gently near the end to avoid breaking the chicken.

🍽️ Servings

  • Serves: 4–6 people

  • Serving Size: 1–2 chicken legs with gravy

🧮 Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving)

  • Calories: ~360

  • Protein: 28g

  • Fat: 22g

  • Carbohydrates: 8g

  • Sodium: 780mg

  • Fiber: 1g

Values are estimates and may vary by ingredient brands.

🌟 Benefits

  • High Protein: Supports muscle and satiety

  • Slow Cooker Friendly: Hands-off cooking

  • Budget-Friendly: Affordable ingredients

  • Comfort Food: Rich, satisfying flavors

  • Versatile: Pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use frozen chicken legs?
A: It’s best to thaw first for even cooking and food safety.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes—use a dairy-free cream soup alternative or make a roux-based gravy.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Q: What sides go best with this recipe?
A: Mashed potatoes, rice, biscuits, green beans, or collard greens.

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