Hey there! If you’re looking for an easy, family-friendly dinner that everyone will love, these Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are it. They’re tender, juicy, and loaded with sweet and smoky BBQ flavor. Best part? The slow cooker does most of the work for you—perfect for busy weekdays or when you just want something simple but delicious. My kids gobble these up every time, and I love how hands-off the recipe is. Let’s get cooking!
What You’ll Need
- 8–10 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: Chopped parsley
Pro Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help the sauce stick better.
- Use liners for your slow cooker for easy cleanup.
- Want crispy skin? Pop the drumsticks under the broiler for 2–3 minutes after they’re done in the slow cooker.
- Double the sauce ingredients if your family loves extra sauce for dipping!
- For picky eaters, serve the drumsticks with a side of their favorite veggies or mashed potatoes.
Tools You’ll Need
- Slow cooker
- Tongs
- Small bowl for mixing sauce ingredients
- Basting brush (optional, but helpful for broiling step)
Substitutions & Variations
- Chicken: Swap drumsticks for thighs or wings if that’s what you have.
- BBQ Sauce: Use a low-sugar or keto-friendly BBQ sauce for a healthier option.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne if your family loves a bit of heat.
- Honey: Maple syrup works as a great substitute.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Mix the BBQ sauce, honey, Worcestershire, and seasonings the night before, so all you have to do is pour it over the chicken in the morning.
- You can cook the drumsticks a day in advance, refrigerate, and reheat them in the oven or broiler when you’re ready to eat.
How to Make Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Step 1: Season the Drumsticks
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with a paper towel. Season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of extra garlic powder.
Step 3: Add Chicken to the Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned drumsticks into the slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure all pieces are coated.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step 5: Optional Broil for Crispy Skin
For crispy, caramelized skin, place the cooked drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with foil. Brush them with additional BBQ sauce and broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes. Watch closely so they don’t burn!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the drumsticks are ready (and broiled, if you chose to do so), transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, and serve with your favorite sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or mashed potatoes. Dig in while they’re hot!
Leftovers & Storage
- Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- Shred the leftover chicken to use in wraps, salads, or sandwiches!
Conclusion
There you go—easy, flavorful Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Drumsticks that your whole family will love! This recipe is a lifesaver on busy days, and it’s always a hit at the dinner table. Let me know if you give it a try—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you or if you added your own twist. Happy cooking! 😊
