Description
This Incredible Slow Cooker Drumsticks recipe is a simple, flavorful dish made with only 4 ingredients. Coated in a smoky paprika and garlic spice mix and smothered in tangy BBQ sauce, these chicken drumsticks become tender, juicy, and fall-off-the-bone delicious after slow cooking. It’s perfect for an effortless weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Spice Mix
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons granulated garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Main
- 3 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1½ cups BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the spice mixture: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, granulated garlic powder, and kosher salt to create a flavorful seasoning blend for the chicken.
- Season the chicken: Place the chicken drumsticks into a 6-quart slow cooker. Evenly sprinkle the spice mixture over the drumsticks and toss gently to ensure every piece is well coated with the seasoning.
- Add BBQ sauce: Pour ½ cup of the BBQ sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Use a spoon or spatula to smooth the sauce over the tops of the drumsticks, making sure they are covered with flavorful sauce.
- Slow cook the drumsticks: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on high heat for 2 to 4 hours, or on low heat for 4 to 6 hours. The chicken is done when it is thoroughly cooked and very tender, falling off the bone easily.
Notes
- Use a 6-quart slow cooker for best results to ensure even cooking and space for the chicken to cook properly.
- For a deeper BBQ flavor, you can toss the cooked drumsticks in the remaining BBQ sauce before serving.
- Adjust cooking time depending on your slow cooker’s temperature settings and chicken size; always ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- This simple recipe requires only 4 ingredients, making it quick and easy without sacrificing taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drumstick (of 6)
- Calories: 369 kcal
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 783 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg