### Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks: A Meal Everyone Will Adore
When it involves family meals, locating a dish that everyone can agree on can be tricky. These slow cooker chicken drumsticks serve as the ideal answer—sweet, saucy, and remarkably simple to make with minimal effort.
#### Flavor Profile
Every bite of these drumsticks is coated in a smoky, sweet BBQ sauce with a touch of spice, making them a favorite among both children and adults.
#### Skill Level
This recipe is suitable for beginners, needing only a few basic ingredients and easy-to-follow steps.
#### Preparation Tips
– **Poke the Chicken**: Using a fork to create holes in the chicken allows the sauce to seep in more deeply, boosting the flavor.
– **Time-Saving**: On hectic evenings, just season the drumsticks, pour store-bought BBQ sauce over them, and let the slow cooker take care of the rest. This technique takes just a few minutes of prep time, with no need for browning or pre-cooking.
#### Serving Suggestions
Serve these tasty drumsticks with homemade cornbread and a simple green salad for a complete and uncomplicated weeknight meal.
### Key Ingredients
– **Chicken**: Choose skin-on chicken drumsticks for optimal flavor and texture. Bone-in chicken thighs can also be used as an alternative.
– **BBQ Sauce**: Pick your preferred BBQ sauce; Sweet Baby Ray’s is a well-liked option for its sweet and tangy taste, but feel free to explore smoky or spicy varieties.
– **Seasoning**: A Cajun seasoning mix works well, or you can prepare your own. Adding a dash of smoked paprika can enhance the smoky flavor.
### How to Cook Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks
1. **Prepare the Drumsticks**: Pat the drumsticks dry and poke each one several times with a fork.
2. **Season**: Evenly sprinkle the Cajun seasoning onto the drumsticks and rub it in to ensure coverage.
3. **Slow Cook**: Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer at the base of a 6-quart slow cooker.
4. **Add Sauce**: In a small bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, honey, and garlic powder, then drizzle it over the drumsticks.
5. **Cook**: Cover and cook on high for 2 to 4 hours or on low for 4 to 5 hours until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
6. **Optional Broiling**: For a sticky glaze and crispy edges, move the drumsticks to a foil-lined baking sheet and broil for 3 to 4 minutes until lightly caramelized.
7. **Serve**: Enjoy with additional BBQ sauce for dipping.
### Storage and Reheating
Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a bit of extra sauce and warm them in an air fryer or under the broiler. For longer storage, cooled drumsticks can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until heated throughout.
### Conclusion
These slow cooker chicken drumsticks are not only simple to prepare but also tasty enough to please everyone at the dinner table. Enjoy a stress-free meal that unites the family!