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Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Drumsticks: Fall-Off-The-Bone Crockpot Chicken Legs

This set-and-forget slow cooker recipe transforms chicken drumsticks into incredibly tender, fall-off-the-bone perfection with rich barbecue flavor. The crockpot does all the work, creating a saucy, finger-licking dish perfect for family meals or casual gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 8-10 chicken drumsticks (about 3 pounds)
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons water (optional, for slurry)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the chicken by patting the drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes better browning.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
  3. Arrange the chicken drumsticks in a single layer in your slow cooker. Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure each drumstick is well coated.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it easily pulls away from the bone and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  5. For a thicker sauce, carefully transfer the cooked chicken to a serving platter. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce in the slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 15-20 minutes until thickened.
  6. Return the chicken to the slow cooker to coat with the thickened sauce, or pour the sauce over the chicken before serving.

Notes

For crispier skin, transfer cooked drumsticks to a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes. Experiment with different barbecue sauce flavors and add brown sugar for extra sweetness. Perfect for meal prep - keeps in refrigerator for up to 4 days.