Juicy Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe 🍗 Easy, Flavor-Packed Recipe for Dinner!

Table of Contents: Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Looking for a fuss-free, flavorful dinner that practically cooks itself? This Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe is your answer! Perfectly seasoned, tender, and juicy, these drumsticks are a crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or cozy Sundays.


Introduction: Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

There’s something magical about slow-cooked meals. They fill your home with irresistible aromas and deliver tender, melt-in-your-mouth results with minimal effort. This Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe is no exception. Combining savory soy sauce, tangy lime juice, and a hint of sweetness from Thai chili sauce, this dish is a flavor explosion waiting to happen.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, planning an easy weeknight meal, or simply craving some comfort food, this recipe has you covered. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on what matters most—spending time with loved ones.

With keywords like Crock pot chicken legs and slow cooker poultry, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine without sacrificing taste. It’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with steamed rice, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad.


Alternate Names & Variations

This recipe goes by many names, depending on how you prepare it or the ingredients you use. You might also hear it referred to as:
– Crock pot chicken legs
– Easy chicken drumsticks
– Slow cooker poultry

For variations, consider swapping the soy sauce for teriyaki or adding a touch of honey for extra sweetness. The possibilities are endless!


Ingredients: Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce (for a rich, savory base)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (to keep the drumsticks moist)
  • 1/4 cup sweet Thai chili sauce (for a hint of sweetness and spice)
  • 2 Tbsp. Sriracha (adjust to your heat preference)
  • 2 Tbsp. brown sugar (to balance the flavors)
  • Juice of 1 lime (for a zesty kick)
  • 1″ fresh ginger, peeled and minced (adds a warm, aromatic note)
  • 3 cloves garlic, crushed (for depth of flavor)
  • 4 to 4 1/2 lb. chicken drumsticks (the star of the dish)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 tsp. toasted sesame seeds (for a final touch of elegance)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chicken broth, Thai chili sauce, Sriracha, brown sugar, lime juice, ginger, and garlic until well combined.

2. Arrange Drumsticks: Place the chicken drumsticks in the slow cooker, ensuring they fit snugly without overcrowding.

3. Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the drumsticks, ensuring each piece is coated.

4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, until the drumsticks are tender and fully cooked.

5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Chef’s Tip: For a crispy finish, transfer the drumsticks to a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes after slow cooking.


Recipe Card Block

This Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep and cooks in 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. Perfect for 4 servings, each portion contains approximately 350 calories. It’s an easy comfort food staple for family dinners or casual get-togethers.


Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

What sets this recipe apart is its perfect balance of flavors—savory, sweet, spicy, and tangy all in one bite. The slow cooker ensures the drumsticks stay juicy and tender, while the sauce infuses every crevice with deliciousness.

Expert Tips:
– Use fresh ginger and garlic for maximum flavor.
– For a thicker sauce, mix 1 Tbsp. cornstarch with 2 Tbsp. water and stir into the cooking liquid during the last 30 minutes.
– Pair with steamed jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.


Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place cooled drumsticks in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.


People Also Ask: Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

How do you cook chicken drumsticks in a slow cooker?

To cook chicken drumsticks in a slow cooker, place them in the pot and cover with your desired sauce or seasonings. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until tender and fully cooked.

What sauce is good for slow cooker drumsticks?

A combination of soy sauce, chicken broth, Thai chili sauce, Sriracha, and brown sugar creates a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors for slow cooker drumsticks.

Do drumsticks need to be covered in liquid in a Crockpot?

No, drumsticks don’t need to be fully submerged in liquid. The slow cooker’s moist environment ensures they stay tender and juicy without being completely covered.

How long do chicken drumsticks take in a slow cooker?

Chicken drumsticks take 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high in a slow cooker. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your appliance.


Conclusion: Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Give this Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe a try—it’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion! Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want an easy, flavorful meal, this dish delivers. Don’t forget to share your results in the comments or tag us on social media. Happy cooking!


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Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks


  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

These slow cooker chicken drumsticks are tender, juicy, and coated in a flavorful sauce. A simple and delicious meal perfect for weeknights or family gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs chicken drumsticks (about 8 pieces)
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place chicken drumsticks in the slow cooker.
  3. Pour the sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
  5. Optional: Transfer drumsticks to a baking sheet and broil for 2–3 minutes to crisp the skin.
  6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

You can swap barbecue sauce for buffalo or teriyaki for different flavor profiles. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 drumsticks
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: chicken drumsticks, slow cooker, crockpot, bbq chicken, easy dinner