Easy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks in the Crockpot

Easy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks in the Crockpot are a weeknight dinner dream come true.

This recipe takes minimal effort to prepare, letting your slow cooker do all the hard work while infusing the chicken with incredible flavor. You’ll come home to tender, juicy drumsticks practically falling off the bone, ready to be devoured by the whole family.

Forget complicated marinades or constant basting. This method is all about simplicity and maximizing that delicious, smoky BBQ taste with hardly any fuss. It’s perfect for busy parents, beginner cooks, or anyone looking for a comforting, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Easy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks in the Crockpot

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• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Easy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks in the Crockpot are a weeknight dinner dream come true. This recipe takes minimal effort to prepare, letting your slow cooker do all the hard work while infusing the chicken with incredible flavor. You’ll come home to tender, juicy drumsticks practically falling off the bone, ready to be devoured by the whole family.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 pounds chicken drumsticks, skin removed

1 (18 ounce) bottle of your favorite BBQ sauce

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. 1. Prepare the Drumsticks: Start by rinsing your chicken drumsticks under cold water and patting them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer at the bottom of your slow cooker.

2. 2. Whisk Together the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the sauce is well combined.

3. 3. Pour Over Chicken: Carefully pour the prepared BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken drumsticks in the slow cooker. Make sure all the drumsticks are well coated in the sauce. Gently move them around if needed to ensure they are submerged.

4. 4. Set the Slow Cooker: Place the lid securely on your slow cooker. Cook on the LOW setting for 6 to 8 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s incredibly tender and easily pulls away from the bone.

5. 5. Check for Doneness: To ensure the chicken is safely cooked, use an instant-read meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 F (74 C) when inserted into the thickest part of the drumstick, avoiding the bone. The meat should also appear opaque throughout.

6. 6. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, carefully remove the drumsticks from the slow cooker. You can spoon some of the delicious sauce from the crockpot over the chicken before serving, or even thicken the remaining sauce on the stovetop if you prefer a richer consistency.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours on high, or 6-8 hours on low
• Category: main dish
• Method: slow cooker
• Cuisine: american

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1-2 drumsticks

Keywords: bbq chicken, drumsticks, slow cooker, crockpot, easy dinner, weeknight meal, family friendly, comfort food, chicken recipe, barbecue

What You’ll Love About This Quick And Easy Recipe

This recipe is a true lifesaver for busy weeknights and a fantastic option for casual family dinners. What makes it so appealing is its incredible ease of preparation; you simply combine a few ingredients, set your crockpot, and let it work its magic. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a delicious, home-cooked meal without the constant attention that many recipes demand. The chicken drumsticks come out incredibly tender and juicy, soaked in a rich, tangy BBQ sauce that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Serve it up with some simple sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a green salad for a complete and satisfying meal that feels special but requires minimal effort. It’s also a fantastic option for meal prepping, as the cooked drumsticks reheat beautifully.

Everything You Need To Make This Recipe Without Stress

Gathering your ingredients for these BBQ chicken drumsticks is straightforward, focusing on common pantry staples and fresh chicken. You won’t need any exotic items, making this a budget-friendly and accessible meal for everyone. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly in the slow cooker with minimal intervention.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 pounds chicken drumsticks, skin removed
• 1 (18 ounce) bottle of your favorite BBQ sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

When selecting your BBQ sauce, feel free to use your family’s favorite brand. Whether you prefer a smoky, sweet, or tangy variety, it will work wonderfully here. For the chicken broth, a low-sodium option is always a good choice to control the overall saltiness of the dish. If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white vinegar can be used in a pinch, though apple cider vinegar adds a subtle fruity tang that complements the BBQ flavor nicely. Brown sugar helps to balance the acidity of the sauce and create a lovely glaze, but you can adjust the amount to your sweetness preference.

Time Needed From Start To Finish

Preparing these delicious BBQ chicken drumsticks is incredibly hands-off, making it ideal for days when you have limited time for active cooking.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours on high, or 6-8 hours on low
• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes (depending on cook setting)

The minimal prep time means you can quickly assemble everything in the morning before work or school, and come home to a perfectly cooked meal. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on other tasks while dinner practically makes itself.

How To Make It Step By Step With Visual Cues

Making these tender BBQ chicken drumsticks in your crockpot is a breeze. Follow these simple steps for a delicious and effortless meal.

1. Prepare the Drumsticks: Start by rinsing your chicken drumsticks under cold water and patting them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Removing the skin is optional but recommended for a less greasy result and to allow the sauce to penetrate the meat more effectively. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer at the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Whisk Together the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the sauce is well combined. You’re looking for a smooth, consistent mixture.
3. Pour Over Chicken: Carefully pour the prepared BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken drumsticks in the slow cooker. Make sure all the drumsticks are well coated in the sauce. Gently move them around if needed to ensure they are submerged.
4. Set the Slow Cooker: Place the lid securely on your slow cooker. Cook on the LOW setting for 6 to 8 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s incredibly tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
5. Check for Doneness: To ensure the chicken is safely cooked, use an instant-read meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the drumstick, avoiding the bone. The meat should also appear opaque throughout.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, carefully remove the drumsticks from the slow cooker. You can spoon some of the delicious sauce from the crockpot over the chicken before serving, or even thicken the remaining sauce on the stovetop if you prefer a richer consistency.

Easy Variations And Serving Ideas That Fit Real Life

This BBQ chicken drumstick recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes and occasions. For a touch of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the BBQ mixture. If you enjoy a smoky flavor, a teaspoon of liquid smoke can be added to the sauce before cooking. For a sweeter profile, an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of honey can be incorporated.

When it comes to serving, these drumsticks are a fantastic centerpiece for a casual family dinner or a backyard gathering. They pair beautifully with classic comfort food sides like creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or a vibrant coleslaw. For a lighter meal, serve them alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables like broccoli or corn on the cob. Kids often love these drumsticks with a side of mac and cheese or some simple potato wedges. For a fun party or buffet idea, you can shred the cooked chicken and serve it on slider buns with extra BBQ sauce, creating mini BBQ chicken sandwiches that are always a hit. Don’t forget some extra napkins, as these can be delightfully messy!

Common Slip-Ups And How To Avoid Them

Even with a simple recipe like this, a few common mistakes can impact the final result. Being aware of them will help you achieve perfectly tender and flavorful BBQ chicken every time.

One frequent slip-up is not removing the chicken skin. While optional, leaving the skin on can result in a greasy sauce and soggy skin, as it doesn’t crisp up in the slow cooker. Removing it allows the sauce to better penetrate the meat and keeps the dish lighter.

Another common issue is overfilling the slow cooker. While it might be tempting to cram in as many drumsticks as possible, overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a longer cooking time. For best results, arrange the drumsticks in a single layer if possible, or at most, two layers, ensuring they are well-covered by the sauce.

Not checking the internal temperature is another mistake. Relying solely on visual cues can be misleading. Always use an instant-read meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures both safety and optimal tenderness.

Finally, using a BBQ sauce you don’t love can significantly impact the dish. Since the sauce is a primary flavor component, choose one that you genuinely enjoy. If you’re unsure, opt for a mild or classic flavor profile, and you can always adjust it with additional seasonings.

How To Store It And Make It Ahead Without Ruining Texture

These BBQ chicken drumsticks are fantastic for meal prepping and storing for later enjoyment. Once cooked, allow the drumsticks to cool completely at room temperature for no more than two hours. Transfer them, along with any remaining sauce, to an airtight container. They will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked drumsticks. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, with or without the sauce, and they will stay fresh for up to 2-3 months. When reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight first.

To reheat, you have a few good options. For individual servings, the microwave works well; heat on medium power until warmed through, usually 1-2 minutes per drumstick. For larger batches or to maintain a slightly crisper exterior (if you like), reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also gently reheat them in a saucepan on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce seems too thick. Reheating in the slow cooker on the warm setting for an hour or so is also an option if you have time. The chicken remains wonderfully tender even after reheating, making it a convenient choice for

FAQs

• Can I make these ahead? Yes—prep ahead, refrigerate, then serve when ready.
• How long do leftovers last? Store covered in the fridge for 3–4 days for best texture.
• Can I adjust sweetness? Yes—add more or less sweetener to taste.
• Can I change the fruit? Yes—swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or sliced banana.