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Savory Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks Recipe for Easy Weeknight Dinners

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A simple, flavorful slow cooker chicken drumsticks recipe perfect for busy weeknights. Tender, juicy meat with a savory herb blend and an optional crispy skin finish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 810 chicken drumsticks, skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat 8-10 chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
  3. Toss the drumsticks in the spice mixture until evenly coated.
  4. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer in the slow cooker.
  5. Pour ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar over the drumsticks. Drizzle 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup on top if using.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or on HIGH for 2.5-3 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Optional: Transfer drumsticks to a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes for crispier skin.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help spices stick and avoid soggy texture. For crispier skin, broil drumsticks after slow cooking. Cooking times may vary by slow cooker model. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken drumsticks, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, savory chicken, crockpot chicken, healthy chicken drumsticks