Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 50 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 to 5 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Tender and flavorful chicken drumsticks slow-cooked in a rich honey BBQ sauce made with a blend of spices, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. This easy slow cooker recipe infuses the drumsticks with sweet and smoky flavors, perfect for a comforting meal that requires minimal effort. Optionally finished under the broiler for a caramelized glaze.


Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 pounds chicken drumsticks

BBQ Sauce Mixture

  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder

Additional

  • 1/2 cup water


Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, honey, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili powder until fully combined.
  2. Arrange chicken in slow cooker: Place the chicken drumsticks in a single layer inside the slow cooker, ensuring even spacing for uniform cooking.
  3. Coat drumsticks with sauce: Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the chicken drumsticks, making sure each piece is well coated with the flavorful sauce.
  4. Add water for moisture: Pour 1/2 cup of water around the edges of the slow cooker to help maintain moisture during cooking and prevent drying out.
  5. Slow cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
  6. Optional broiling for caramelization: For an extra caramelized glaze, transfer the cooked drumsticks to a foil-lined baking sheet, brush with extra sauce, and broil in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  7. Serve: Serve the honey BBQ chicken drumsticks hot, paired with your favorite side dishes such as coleslaw, corn on the cob, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker model and size of drumsticks.
  • Broiling is optional but recommended for a crispy, caramelized finish.
  • Use a barbecue sauce of your choice to adjust sweetness and smokiness.
  • Make sure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.