Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Drumsticks offer a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken infused with smoky barbecue goodness. Here’s how to describe this mouthwatering dish:
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Drumsticks start with plump chicken drumsticks, known for their juicy meat and robust flavor. The drumsticks are placed in a slow cooker, where they are generously coated with a savory barbecue sauce made from a blend of ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and spices.
As the chicken cooks low and slow in the crockpot, it absorbs all the rich flavors of the barbecue sauce, becoming tender and juicy with each passing hour. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become incredibly succulent, practically falling off the bone by the time it’s done.
Throughout the cooking process, the aroma of smoky barbecue fills the kitchen, tantalizing the senses and building anticipation for the flavorful meal to come.
These Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are perfect for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or backyard barbecues. They’re a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy them alongside your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread, for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s always a hit.
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 pounds chicken drumsticks, skinless or skin-on
- Salt and pepper
- 2 cups BBQ sauce, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
METHOD:
1. Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Trim excess skin (remove the skin if you like).
2. In a small bowl, combine seasoning mix.
3. Arrange chicken in a 6-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle seasoning over the drumsticks, tossing to coat. Brush 1 cup BBQ sauce onto the chicken.
4. Cover and cook on low heat for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Chicken is cooked through when the internal temperature reaches 160-165 degrees F.
5. Optional step: Turn the broiler on in your oven and place the oven rack in the top third of your oven. Line a large baking sheet with nonstick foil and arrange chicken skin side up on the baking sheet. Brush with more BBQ sauce and broil until the skin begins to brown and crisp up; about 3-5 minutes.
6. Garnish with green onion if desired just before serving.