Crock Pot Chicken Drumsticks

This Easy Chicken Drumsticks crock pot recipe is a must try. Whether you need something tasty and easy for game day or the next big party, this is the best and easy appetizer recipe with very little work.

It is delicious enough for company but easy enough to make on a busy weeknight. Our entire family loves this and the kids can’t get enough. These crock pot chicken drumsticks are requested weekly by my family. If you make the best crock pot drumsticks, then you must try Crockpot Barbecue Drumsticks or these Instant Pot BBQ Drumsticks.

Why We Love This Recipe

We love chicken drumsticks. They are inexpensive and kid-friendly. Growing up we would always fry drumsticks but I wanted to try making them in the crockpot for a better version of drumsticks.

I was amazed how well they turned out cooking them in the crockpot. They were packed with flavor and so tender. It is such a time saver making these in your crockpot.

The meat literally falls off the bone it is so tender and delicious. This is the best appetizer for parties but filling enough to be the main meal.

Ingredients

• Chicken Drumsticks – You can also use chicken thighs, wings or boneless chicken breasts
• Paprika – See Best Paprika Substitute if you are out
• Cumin – If you are out check out these Best Substitute for Cumin
• Garlic Salt – We have even used fresh garlic cloves or minced garlic.
• BBQ sauce – We love using our Homemade BBQ Sauce but you use the store bought

Scroll to the bottom for the full recipe and ingredients in the recipe card.

Variations Ideas

We love recipes that you can change the recipes to use what you have or add in some extra spice. Here are favorite variations when making this recipe:

• Spicy – If you like your crockpot chicken legs a little spicy add in some chopped jalapeno’s or sprinkle with crushed peppers.
• Honey – Add in some honey for the honey BBQ flavor.
• Brown Sugar – You can also add in some brown sugar for a touch of sweetness.
• Seasoning – You can also omit the BBQ sauce and just add the seasoning if you don’t want to use BBQ Sauce.
• Soy Sauce – Instead of BBQ Sauce add in some soy sauce.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks

• Step 1 – In a small bowl combine the paprika, cumin, and garlic salt. Stir to combine.

• Step 2 – Sprinkle over the drum sticks and rub all over chicken skin.

• Step 3 – Place chicken drumsticks in slow cooker.

• Step 4 – Pour 1 cup of barbeque sauce over the chicken drumsticks.

• Step 5 – Cover and cook on low 4-6 hours until the chicken is tender. (You can cook on high if you prefer but reduce the hours on high.)

• Step 6 – When finished place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil and cooking spray.

• Step 7 – Brush half of the BBQ sauce on the drum sticks. Broil for 1-5 minutes until it begins to brown.

• Step 8 – Remove from oven, flip the drumsticks, and brush with the remaining BBQ sauce.

• Step 9 – Broil another 1-5 minutes until brown. Serve hot. Enjoy!

Tips for Crock Pot Chicken Drumsticks:

• BBQ Sauce – Have you ever tried making your Homemade Barbecue Sauce? It really is a simple process to make and it taste amazing. You can use the store bought also and they will still turn out great.
• Leave Skin on Chicken – Make sure to leave the skin on the drumsticks. This allows the skin to get crispy and from drying out.
• Broil Chicken – If you prefer your drumsticks crispy, make sure when you put them in the broiler to watch them closely. It doesn’t take long to get that crispy edge.

How Long Do Drumsticks need to be Cooked For?

Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your chicken drumsticks. But our chicken drumsticks were ready in about 5 hours and then broiled them to get that crispy texture.

What to Serve with Chicken Drumsticks?

• We love serving with a side of Crockpot Mashed Potatoes Recipe.
• Side of Steamed Broccoli or other vegetables would great with this recipe.
• Homemade Mac and Cheese is always a family favorite.
• A side of Instant pot White Rice Recipe also is a great option.