Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Chicken Drumsticks

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Description

This Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Chicken Drumsticks recipe is the ultimate no-fuss, flavor-packed dish. With only three ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll get fall-off-the-bone, juicy drumsticks coated in a savory glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooking process ensures maximum tenderness, while the simple sauce infuses rich flavor into every bite.

 Ingredients For Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Chicken Drumsticks

  • 3–4 lbs chicken drumsticks (about 10–12 pieces)

  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

  • ½ cup honey OR brown sugar (for sweetness & caramelization)

(Optional: 1 tbsp soy sauce or hot sauce for extra depth or spice)

 Instructions

  1. Prepare the Drumsticks – Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the sauce stick better.

  2. Mix the Sauce – In a small bowl, combine BBQ sauce and honey (or brown sugar). Stir until smooth.

  3. Slow Cook – Place chicken drumsticks in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over and toss to coat evenly.

  4. Cook Time –

    • On LOW for 6–7 hours

    • On HIGH for 3–4 hours

  5. Optional Crisping Step – For extra caramelization, transfer cooked drumsticks to a baking sheet, brush with extra sauce, and broil for 3–5 minutes until slightly charred.

  6. Serve & Enjoy – Garnish with fresh parsley, sesame seeds, or green onions if desired.

 Servings

  • Serves 6 people

  • About 2 drumsticks per serving

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 290

  • Protein: 24g

  • Fat: 12g

  • Carbohydrates: 20g

  • Fiber: 0g

  • Sugar: 18g

  • Sodium: 450mg

(Values vary depending on BBQ sauce and sweetener used)

Notes

  • You can substitute thighs or wings instead of drumsticks.

  • For a healthier version, use sugar-free BBQ sauce or replace honey with maple syrup.

  • Avoid lifting the lid too often while cooking—it releases heat and slows cooking time.

 Tips

  • For extra smoky flavor, use a smoked BBQ sauce.

  • Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess.

  • To make it a complete meal, add baby potatoes or carrots to the slow cooker with the chicken.

  • If meal-prepping, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for 3 months.

 Benefits

  • Minimal Ingredients – Only 3 pantry staples needed.

  • Time-Saving – Hands-off slow cooker recipe.

  • Family-Friendly – Kids and adults love the sweet-savory glaze.

  • Budget-Friendly – Drumsticks are one of the most affordable cuts of chicken.

  • Versatile – Can be served with rice, mashed potatoes, salad, or roasted veggies.

Q/A

Q1: Can I use frozen drumsticks?
Yes, but thaw them first for even cooking. Cooking from frozen may increase time.

Q2: Can I make this in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes! Bake covered at 375°F (190°C) for 45–50 minutes, then uncover and broil for a few minutes for caramelization.

Q3: What sides pair best with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, mac & cheese, roasted vegetables, or rice.

Q4: Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely! Add hot sauce, chili flakes, or sriracha to the sauce mix.

Q5: Will this recipe work with boneless chicken?
Yes, but reduce the cook time by about 1 hour to avoid drying out.

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