There’s something truly magical about coming home to a meal that’s already prepared. These Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks offer that very comfort. They cook low and slow, delivering unbelievably tender, juicy chicken. The sweet and savory glaze coats every bite perfectly. You get incredible flavor with almost no effort.
I absolutely love making these on busy weeknights. The aroma that fills the house as they cook is amazing. Plus, they store beautifully for leftovers. This recipe is a total lifesaver when you need a delicious, family-pleasing dinner.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is honestly a favorite for so many reasons!
- Effortless Prep: Seriously, minimal work required.
- Weeknight Wonder: Perfect for those crazy busy evenings.
- Big Flavor: The glaze is absolutely delicious.
- Crowd-Pleaser: My whole family devours these Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks.
Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks Ingredients
The beauty of these Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks lies in its simple yet powerful ingredient list. Each component plays a role in creating that irresistible sweet and savory magic. It’s amazing how a few pantry staples transform into something so special.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Drumsticks: The star of the show! Whether you prefer them with or without skin, they become incredibly tender in the slow cooker.
- Onion: This aromatic base adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor as it softens.
- Garlic: A must-have for any savory dish. It brings that essential pungent punch.
- Chicken Broth: This forms the liquid base for our flavorful sauce.
- Soy Sauce: It provides that crucial salty, umami foundation for our glaze.
- Honey: Here’s where the sweetness comes in. It balances the salt and adds a lovely sticky glaze.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A touch of acidity cuts through the richness and brightens the whole sauce.
- Paprika: Adds a beautiful color and a mild, earthy flavor.
- Dried Thyme: Lends a subtle herbaceous note that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning everything perfectly.
Substitutions and Tips
Feel free to play around with this recipe! For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. If you’re watching sodium, low-sodium soy sauce works wonders. Don’t have apple cider vinegar? White or red wine vinegar can work in a pinch. Remember, the exact quantities are in the recipe card below!
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks
Step 1: Prep the Base
First, get out your slow cooker. Place the roughly chopped onion pieces right at the bottom. Then, add the minced garlic on top of the onions. This creates a lovely flavor bed.
Step 2: Season the Drumsticks
Next, take your chicken drumsticks. Sprinkle them generously all over. Use salt for flavor. Add black pepper for a little kick. Don’t forget the paprika for color. Finally, sprinkle on the dried thyme. Make sure they are well-coated.
These seasoned Crockpot chicken drumsticks are ready for the slow cooker.
Step 3: Layer Everything
Now, arrange the seasoned drumsticks in the slow cooker. Place them right on top of the onion and garlic layer. Nestling them in helps them cook evenly.
Step 4: Make the Delicious Sauce
Grab a small bowl. Whisk together the chicken broth. Add in the soy sauce next. Stir in the sweet honey. Finally, add the apple cider vinegar. This sauce is magic.
Pour this wonderful sauce mixture directly over the chicken. Ensure it gets into all the nooks and crannies.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker tightly with its lid. Set your slow cooker to the ‘low’ setting. Let it cook for about 3 to 4 hours. Alternatively, you can use the ‘high’ setting. Cook for 2 to 3 hours on high. The chicken is done when it’s fork-tender. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking times can vary.
Step 6: Achieve Crispy Skin (Optional)
Want that delightful crispy skin? This step is optional but worth it! Carefully remove the drumsticks from the slow cooker. Place them on a baking sheet. Pop them under your broiler. Broil for just 3 to 5 minutes. Watch them very closely. You want them golden brown and crispy, not burnt.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your amazing Crockpot chicken drumsticks are ready! Serve them hot. Spoon some of that delicious sauce from the slow cooker over each drumstick. Enjoy this easy, flavorful meal.
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Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-4 hours
- Total Time: 2.5-4.5 hours
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Easy and flavorful Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks recipe perfect for a weeknight meal. The slow cooker does all the work, resulting in tender, juicy chicken with a delicious sweet and savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 8–10 chicken drumsticks skin on or off
- 1 onion roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 0.25 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the chopped onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Season the chicken drumsticks generously with salt pepper paprika and thyme.
- Place the seasoned drumsticks on top of the onion and garlic in the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl whisk together chicken broth soy sauce honey and apple cider vinegar. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until chicken is tender and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
- For crispier skin if desired carefully remove drumsticks from the slow cooker and place them on a baking sheet. Broil for 3-5 minutes or until skin is browned and crispy watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve the drumsticks with the sauce from the slow cooker.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on your slow cooker’s performance.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- This recipe can be adapted for other chicken parts like thighs or breasts.
How to Store Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks
Storing these delicious Crockpot chicken drumsticks is a breeze! For refrigerator storage, let them cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay good for up to 3 days. You can also freeze cooked drumsticks for longer storage. Wrap them well. Frozen leftovers last about 2 months. This makes future meals super easy.
Tips for Success
- Use a slow cooker liner. Cleanup will be a breeze!
- Don’t peek too often. Resist opening the lid.
- Adjust cooking times as needed. Your slow cooker is unique.
- Taste and adjust seasonings. Make it perfect for you.
- Use quality ingredients. They make a difference.
- For extra flavor, marinate drumsticks first.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Slow cooker: Essential for this recipe. A 4-6 quart size works great.
- Small bowl: For whisking together the sauce ingredients.
- Whisk or fork: To easily combine the sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
- Baking sheet (optional): If you want to crisp the skin.
- Tongs: To handle the drumsticks safely.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these Crockpot chicken drumsticks with fluffy mashed potatoes or rice.
- A fresh green salad or steamed veggies are great complements.
- Consider a side of coleslaw for a picnic feel.
- Pair with your favorite iced tea or a light beer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can definitely prep these ahead. Make the sauce and chop the onions and garlic. Store them in the fridge separately. Assemble everything in the slow cooker right before you want to cook.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Yes, you certainly can! Chicken thighs are a wonderful substitute. They will also become very tender and juicy. Cooking times might be slightly different. Check their internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).
How can I reduce the sodium in this recipe?
To lower the sodium content, use a low-sodium soy sauce. You can also opt for reduced-sodium chicken broth. Taste the sauce before serving and adjust as needed. These simple swaps make a big difference.
What if my slow cooker cooks faster or slower?
Slow cookers can vary. It’s best to know your appliance. Start checking the chicken around the 2.5-hour mark on high or 3-hour mark on low. Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C) for safe and tender Crockpot chicken drumsticks.
