Slow Cooker Drumsticks – Tender, Juicy, and Full of Flavor

Bylina

When you want a dinner that’s effortless, delicious, and loved by everyone at the table, Slow Cooker Drumsticks are the perfect choice. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, you can let the slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day. These drumsticks turn out tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, making them the ultimate comfort food for busy nights.

Whether you’re making a family dinner or prepping for meal planning, these drumsticks will quickly become a favorite in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Hands-Off Cooking
  • Perfectly Tender and Juicy Chicken
  • Flavorful Seasonings You Can Customize
  • Ideal for Busy Weeknights
  • Great for Leftovers

Ingredients

  • 10–12 chicken drumsticks (skin-on or skinless, your choice)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup chicken broth or water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional for browning)
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (optional for glazing)

How to Make It

Step 1: Prep the Drumsticks
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice, crispy texture if you choose to sear them before slow cooking, but it’s optional. Season the drumsticks with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. You can customize these seasonings based on your taste, adding more spice or herbs as you like.

Step 2: Brown the Drumsticks (Optional)
If you want a crispier skin, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the drumsticks and brown them on all sides for about 2–3 minutes. This step is optional, but it adds extra flavor and texture. Once browned, transfer the drumsticks to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Add the Aromatics and Broth
In the slow cooker, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth (or water). Stir to combine, then arrange the drumsticks in a single layer in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the drumsticks are fully cooked through and tender. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Optional Glaze
If you like your drumsticks with a BBQ glaze, brush your favorite BBQ sauce over the drumsticks during the last 15–20 minutes of cooking. Cover and cook on high to let the sauce set.

Step 6: Serve
Once the drumsticks are done, serve them with the delicious cooking juices from the slow cooker. Pair with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Drumsticks

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Ensure the drumsticks have enough room to cook evenly. If necessary, cook in batches.
  • Customize the Flavor: You can switch up the seasonings by adding cayenne for heat, lemon zest for brightness, or a little brown sugar for a sweet touch.
  • Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in drumsticks tend to stay more moist and flavorful during slow cooking, but boneless will work too if preferred.
  • Crispy Skin Option: If you want crispy skin, sear the drumsticks in a hot pan before placing them in the slow cooker. Alternatively, you can broil the drumsticks for a few minutes after they’re done cooking.

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prep the drumsticks the night before by seasoning them and storing them in the fridge. In the morning, just pop them in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Perfect for busy days!

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Drumsticks

  • Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts makes the perfect side.
  • Rice or Quinoa: The cooking juices are great over a bowl of steamed rice or quinoa.
  • Coleslaw: Add a fresh crunch with a simple coleslaw for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

These Slow Cooker Drumsticks are everything you love about comfort food — juicy, tender, and easy to make. With just a few ingredients and little prep time, you’ll have a meal that everyone will love. Let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy your day, and come home to a delicious dinner that’s ready to serve.