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
- 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.
- Arrange chicken in slow cooker: Place the chicken drumsticks in a single layer inside the slow cooker, ensuring even spacing for uniform cooking.
- Coat drumsticks with sauce: Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the chicken drumsticks, making sure each piece is well coated with the flavorful sauce.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.