If you’re looking for a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious, these Slow Cooker Drumsticks are the perfect solution. Packed with flavor and fall-off-the-bone tenderness, this recipe combines simple ingredients with minimal preparation to create a dish that will please the entire family. Whether you’re making dinner on a busy weeknight or preparing for a weekend gathering, these drumsticks are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Drumsticks
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons granulated garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1 ½ cups BBQ sauce
Instructions for Preparing Slow Cooker Drumsticks
Step 1: Season the Drumsticks
Start by preparing the seasoning for the chicken. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, granulated garlic powder, and kosher salt. These three ingredients will give the chicken a smoky, garlicky, and slightly salty flavor profile that complements the BBQ sauce perfectly.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Place the chicken drumsticks into a 6-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken. Toss the drumsticks gently to coat them in the spice mixture, ensuring that each piece is well-seasoned.
Step 3: Add BBQ Sauce
Next, pour ½ cup of BBQ sauce over the drumsticks, smoothing it out to cover the tops of the chicken. The BBQ sauce will add a rich, tangy flavor to the chicken as it cooks, infusing each piece with its smoky sweetness.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Drumsticks
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. You can cook the chicken on high for 2-4 hours or on low for 4-6 hours, depending on your schedule. The drumsticks are done when they are cooked through and tender. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to really sink in, making the chicken incredibly juicy and flavorful.
For Crispy Skin (Optional)
While the slow cooker method will give you tender, juicy chicken, if you love crispy skin, you can easily finish the drumsticks in the oven for a deliciously crisp exterior.
- Carefully remove the cooked drumsticks from the slow cooker and place them on a foil-lined broiler-safe pan. Be sure to discard or reserve the remaining cooking liquid for later use (it makes a great base for soups or sauces).
- Brush all sides of the drumsticks with the remaining 1 cup of BBQ sauce. This will help create a glossy, sticky coating that crisps up nicely under the broiler.
- Broil on high for 2-4 minutes, then flip the chicken and broil for another 2 minutes, or until the skin starts to crisp up. Keep a close eye on the chicken while broiling, as it can burn quickly. Trust me, don’t walk away!
Notes and Tips
- BBQ Sauce Choice: The type of BBQ sauce you use will greatly impact the flavor of this dish. Choose a sauce that matches your taste preferences, whether you like it tangy, sweet, smoky, or spicy. If you’re following a specific dietary plan, such as paleo or refined sugar-free, opt for a BBQ sauce that aligns with those guidelines. Many brands offer options that are both paleo-friendly and free from refined sugar.
- Nutritional Information: The nutritional content of this recipe will vary depending on the BBQ sauce you use, so be sure to check the label if you’re tracking your sugar or calorie intake. Some BBQ sauces can be high in sugar, so choosing a lower-sugar or sugar-free version can make this recipe more diet-friendly.
- Serving Suggestions: These slow cooker drumsticks pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving them with a fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a lighter option, serve them alongside a side of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy days. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it.
- Tender and Flavorful: The slow cooking method ensures the chicken turns out super tender, with the flavors of the spices and BBQ sauce thoroughly infused into every bite.
- Customizable: Adjust the seasonings and BBQ sauce to suit your taste. Whether you like your chicken spicy, tangy, or sweet, this recipe can easily be modified to your preference.
- Great for Meal Prep: This recipe makes a generous amount of chicken, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. The drumsticks are perfect for leftovers and can be enjoyed for several days after they’re made.
Conclusion
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want an easy, weeknight dinner, Slow Cooker Drumsticks offer a hassle-free way to make a flavorful, juicy meal. The combination of smoky paprika, garlic, and tangy BBQ sauce creates a deliciously savory dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. And if you love a crispy exterior, the broiler step will give you that perfect finish. Pair them with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a family-friendly meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Enjoy the ease of slow cooking and the irresistible taste of these slow cooker drumsticks—a dish that’s as simple as it is scrumptious!