Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks: Easy & Delicious Recipe

Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks: Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy, fall-off-the-bone chicken, infused with savory flavors that have melded together over hours of slow cooking. That’s the magic of this incredibly easy and satisfying recipe! Forget slaving over a hot stove; with this method, you can enjoy perfectly cooked chicken drumsticks with minimal effort.

Chicken drumsticks, a humble cut of meat, have been a staple in cuisines around the world for centuries. From simple roasted preparations to complex braised dishes, their versatility and affordability have made them a favorite across cultures. In the American South, slow-cooked chicken is a cornerstone of comfort food, often served at family gatherings and celebrations. This Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks recipe pays homage to that tradition, offering a modern, convenient twist on a classic favorite.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the combination of tender, succulent chicken and the rich, flavorful sauce that develops during the slow cooking process. The drumsticks become incredibly moist and practically melt in your mouth. Plus, the convenience factor is unbeatable! Simply toss the ingredients into your crockpot, set it, and forget it. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student on a budget, or simply someone who appreciates a delicious and effortless meal, these crockpot chicken drumsticks are guaranteed to become a new family favorite. The ease of preparation and the incredible taste make this a winning combination every time!

Ingredients:

• 2.5 – 3 pounds chicken drumsticks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (packed)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Preparing the Chicken and Spice Rub:

1. First, let’s get those drumsticks ready! Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step because it helps the skin crisp up a bit, even in the slow cooker. Nobody wants soggy chicken skin!
2. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. This is our magic spice blend that will give the chicken so much flavor.
3. Now, generously rub the spice mixture all over the chicken drumsticks, making sure each piece is well coated. Don’t be shy! Really massage the spices into the chicken. This ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness.

Searing the Chicken (Optional but Recommended):

This step is optional, but I highly recommend it for added flavor and texture. Searing the chicken before putting it in the crockpot gives it a beautiful color and helps to lock in the juices.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the skillet to be nice and hot before adding the chicken.
2. Carefully place the seasoned chicken drumsticks in the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. You might need to do this in batches.
3. Sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. You’re not trying to cook the chicken all the way through, just get a good sear on the outside.
4. Remove the seared chicken drumsticks from the skillet and set them aside.

Making the Barbecue Sauce:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. This is our flavorful barbecue sauce that will infuse the chicken with amazing taste as it cooks.
2. Make sure the brown sugar is fully dissolved in the sauce. You don’t want any gritty bits in your final dish.

Assembling in the Crockpot:

1. Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the crockpot. This will create a flavorful base for the chicken to cook on.
2. Arrange the seared (or un-seared, if you skipped that step) chicken drumsticks on top of the onion and garlic in a single layer. Try not to overcrowd the crockpot. If necessary, you can slightly overlap the drumsticks.
3. Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the chicken drumsticks, making sure they are evenly coated.

Cooking Process:

1. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The cooking time will depend on your crockpot and the size of the drumsticks.
2. The chicken is done when it is very tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).

Shredding (Optional) and Serving:

You can serve the drumsticks whole, or you can shred the chicken for sandwiches or sliders. I often shred some of the chicken and leave some whole for variety.

1. If you want to shred the chicken, carefully remove the drumsticks from the crockpot and place them on a cutting board.
2. Use two forks to shred the chicken, discarding the bones and skin (if desired).
3. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the remaining sauce. This will help the chicken absorb even more flavor.
4. Serve the crockpot chicken drumsticks (whole or shredded) with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, corn on the cob, or baked beans.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you don’t like any heat, omit it altogether. For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter barbecue sauce, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of honey.
• Smokiness: For a more intense smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the barbecue sauce.
• Vegetables: You can add other vegetables to the crockpot along with the onion and garlic. Try adding sliced bell peppers, carrots, or celery.
• Thickening the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken from the crockpot after it’s cooked and whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the sauce in the crockpot and cook on high for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
• Broiling for Extra Crispiness: For extra crispy skin, after the chicken is cooked in the crockpot, you can transfer it to a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for a few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
• Bone-In, Skin-On Thighs: You can substitute chicken thighs for drumsticks in this recipe. The cooking time will be similar.
• Honey Garlic Variation: Omit the barbecue sauce and brown sugar. Instead, use 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons minced garlic, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil.

Serving Suggestions:

• Classic BBQ Plate: Serve with coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread.
• Chicken Sliders: Shred the chicken and serve on slider buns with coleslaw and pickles.
• Chicken Tacos: Shred the chicken and serve in tortillas with your favorite taco toppings.
• Chicken Salad Sandwiches: Shred the chicken and mix it with mayonnaise, celery, onion, and seasonings for a delicious chicken salad sandwich.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve the shredded chicken and sauce over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions:

Leftover crockpot chicken drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the chicken for longer storage. To freeze, place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

You can reheat the crockpot chicken drumsticks in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop.

• Microwave: Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving (depending on portion size and ingredients)
• Protein: 30-35 grams
• Fat: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks are truly a game-changer for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. I know, I know, you might be thinking, “Chicken drumsticks in a crockpot? Really?” But trust me on this one. The magic of slow cooking transforms these humble pieces of chicken into incredibly tender, fall-off-the-bone delights, infused with flavor that penetrates every single bite. What makes this recipe a must-try? It’s the perfect combination of simplicity and deliciousness. You literally toss everything into the crockpot, set it, and forget it. No babysitting required! Plus, the cleanup is a breeze. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good, budget-friendly meal that the whole family will devour? But the real reason you need to try these Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks is the taste. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and savory sauce that coats each drumstick perfectly. The chicken becomes so tender that it practically melts in your mouth. It’s comfort food at its finest, and it’s guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Now, let’s talk about serving suggestions. These drumsticks are incredibly versatile. For a classic pairing, serve them with mashed potatoes and your favorite steamed vegetable, like broccoli or green beans. Or, for a more casual meal, try them with coleslaw and corn on the cob. They’re also fantastic served over rice or quinoa, allowing the flavorful sauce to soak into the grains. Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations you might want to try: * Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little extra heat. * Honey Garlic Glaze: Stir in a tablespoon of honey and a clove of minced garlic during the last hour of cooking for a sweet and savory glaze. * BBQ Bonanza: Use your favorite BBQ sauce instead of the ingredients listed in the recipe for a classic BBQ flavor. * Italian Herb Infusion: Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese during the last hour of cooking for an Italian-inspired twist. The possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own unique version of these Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks. I’m so confident that you’re going to love this recipe. It’s easy, delicious, and incredibly satisfying. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! I can’t wait to hear what you think! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please come back and leave a comment below. Let me know how it turned out, what variations you tried, and what your family thought. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps other readers discover new and exciting ways to enjoy this amazing dish. Share your photos on social media too, and tag me so I can see your culinary creations! Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks! I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your household, just like it has in mine.

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