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

These slow cooker BBQ chicken drumsticks transform into incredibly tender, fall-off-the-bone perfection with minimal effort. The crockpot does all the work, infusing the chicken legs with rich barbecue flavor for a saucy, finger-licking meal that's perfect for busy weeknights 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 brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening, optional)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels and arrange them in a single layer in your slow cooker.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and brown sugar until well combined.
  3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken drumsticks, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours until chicken easily pulls away from the bone.
  4. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the cooked chicken and keep warm. Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir into the sauce in the slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 15-20 minutes until thickened.
  5. Return the chicken to the slow cooker, coat with the thickened sauce, and serve immediately.

Notes

Arrange drumsticks in single layer for even cooking. For crispy skin, broil cooked drumsticks for 2-3 minutes. Flavors improve when stored overnight. Customize sauce with chili powder for heat or honey for sweetness.