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Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe


  • Author: lina
  • Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Deliciously tender and flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks coated in a smoky BBQ spice rub and slow-cooked to perfection. Finished under the broiler for a crispy, caramelized edge, this easy recipe is perfect for a hassle-free weeknight dinner or casual gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 3 pounds chicken drumsticks

Seasoning and Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons BBQ spice rub
  • 2 1/2 cups BBQ sauce, divided use

Others

  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Prepare the slow cooker: Coat the inside of a slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  2. Season the chicken: Rub the BBQ spice all over the chicken drumsticks thoroughly, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor.
  3. Layer the drumsticks: Place the drumsticks in the slow cooker in layers, making sure they are evenly distributed for consistent cooking.
  4. Add BBQ sauce: Pour 2 cups of BBQ sauce over the drumsticks in the slow cooker and gently toss them to coat each piece evenly with the sauce.
  5. Slow cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  6. Preheat the broiler: About 10 minutes before the chicken is done, preheat your oven broiler to prepare for finishing the drumsticks with a crispy glaze.
  7. Arrange drumsticks on sheet pan: Remove the cooked drumsticks from the slow cooker and place them in a single layer on a sheet pan lightly coated with cooking spray.
  8. Glaze and broil: Brush the remaining 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce over the drumsticks, then broil for 3 to 5 minutes or until the edges begin to brown and crisp, enhancing the flavor and texture.
  9. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot, enjoying the perfect balance of tender meat and crispy sauce-coated skin.

Notes

  • You can customize the spice rub according to your preference, adding smoked paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne for extra heat.
  • Use a thick, quality BBQ sauce for best flavor and to prevent the meat from becoming soggy during cooking.
  • Make sure to monitor the broiler closely to avoid burning the sauce on the drumsticks.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer.
  • This recipe pairs well with coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 to 6 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking, Broiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 drumstick (approx. 140g)
  • Calories: 290 kcal
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 26 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg

Keywords: slow cooker chicken drumsticks, BBQ chicken drumsticks, easy slow cooker recipes, crispy chicken drumsticks, BBQ chicken slow cooker