Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks – Juicy chicken drumsticks are slow-cooked to perfection, soaking up your favorite seasonings, sauces, or marinades for a tender, fall-off-the-bone result.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Set it and forget it: The slow cooker does all the work.
- Versatile flavors: Easily adaptable to your favorite sauces and seasonings.
- Budget-friendly: Chicken drumsticks are affordable and delicious.
- Perfect for meal prep: Great for leftovers and make-ahead meals.
Tips and Tricks
- Avoid overcrowding: Ensure the drumsticks are not piled too high to cook evenly.
- Skin on vs. skin off: Leaving the skin on adds flavor, but you can remove it for a leaner dish.
- Searing enhances flavor: While optional, searing seals in juices and adds a depth of flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or chili flakes for some heat.
- Teriyaki Style: Swap barbecue sauce with teriyaki sauce and add pineapple chunks.
- Herb Infused: Incorporate herbs like rosemary and thyme for an aromatic twist.
How to Serve
- Over Rice: The saucy drumsticks pair perfectly with steamed jasmine or brown rice.
- With Veggies: Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
- In Wraps: Shred the meat and use it in tortillas with lettuce and cheese for a quick wrap.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Place in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen drumsticks?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them first to ensure even cooking.
What other sauces can I use?
Feel free to experiment with marinara, Alfredo, or curry sauces.
Can I add vegetables to the crockpot?
Absolutely! Potatoes, carrots, and onions make great additions.
Do I need to add water or broth?
No additional liquid is needed as the chicken will release juices while cooking.
Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks
Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks - Juicy chicken drumsticks are slow-cooked to perfection, soaking up your favorite seasonings, sauces, or marinades for a tender, fall-off-the-bone result.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons BBQ spice rub
- 2 ½ cups BBQ sauce (divided)
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prep the slow cooker: Coat the inside with cooking spray.
- Season the chicken: Rub BBQ spice all over the drumsticks and layer them in the slow cooker.
- Add the sauce: Pour 2 cups of BBQ sauce over the chicken and gently toss to coat.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours until tender.
- Finish under the broiler: Transfer the drumsticks to a sheet pan, brush with the remaining ½ cup BBQ sauce, and broil for 3–5 minutes until the edges crisp up.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 629Total Fat 21gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 13gCholesterol 290mgSodium 1466mgCarbohydrates 49gFiber 1gSugar 40gProtein 56g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
These Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks are a game-changer for easy weeknight dinners. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe that the whole family will love. So dust off that slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a stress-free, delicious meal!
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