Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks (Basic + Flavor Twists)
Ingredients:
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2–3 lbs chicken drumsticks (skin-on or off, up to you)
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Salt & pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp onion powder
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Optional: a little oil for searing (adds flavor, but not required)
Base Instructions:
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Season the drumsticks with salt, pepper, and spices.
Optional: Sear in a skillet for 2–3 mins per side for golden skin. -
Place in slow cooker in a single layer if possible.
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Add sauce or flavor base (see options below!).
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Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
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Optional crisping:
For crispy skin, broil drumsticks on a baking sheet for 3–5 minutes after slow cooking.
Flavor Options:
1. BBQ-Style:
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¾ cup BBQ sauce + 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
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Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang
2. Sticky Asian:
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½ cup soy sauce
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¼ cup honey
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2 tbsp hoisin sauce
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1 tbsp sesame oil
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Garlic + ginger (fresh or powder)
3. Buffalo Style:
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½ cup buffalo hot sauce
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2 tbsp melted butter
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Serve with ranch or blue cheese after broiling
4. Sweet & Savory:
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¼ cup brown sugar
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¼ cup soy sauce
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2 tbsp Dijon or yellow mustard
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1 tsp garlic powder
Serving Ideas:
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Over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles
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With roasted veggies or a crisp slaw
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Or just finger-lickin’ straight from the tray