Crockpot BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
These Crockpot BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a deliciously easy way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken with a smoky, homemade BBQ rub. Perfectly cooked in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, the drumsticks are packed with bold flavors and fall-off-the-bone goodness. For an added touch, broil them for a crisp, caramelized finish. Pair them with your favorite sides like coleslaw or baked beans for a satisfying meal. This recipe is ideal for family dinners, game-day gatherings, or busy weeknights!
Ingredients:
3 pounds chicken drumsticks, seasoned with salt & pepper
2 cups BBQ sauce
1/4 cup BBQ rub (see below for homemade mix)
1 cup water (for Instant Pot only)
Homemade BBQ Rub:
4 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 1/2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
Slow Cooker Method
1. Add the chicken drumsticks to your slow cooker.
2. Sprinkle the homemade BBQ rub over the drumsticks and pour the BBQ sauce on top. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or LOW for 6-8 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Instant Pot Method
1. Mix the homemade rub spices in a small bowl. Season the chicken drumsticks with the rub and toss to coat evenly.
2. Pour the water into the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside. Add the drumsticks on the trivet and pour BBQ sauce over the top.
3. Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 12 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release.
Optional Broiling Step (for crispy skin)
1. Preheat your oven to BROIL. Line a baking sheet with foil.
2. Carefully remove the cooked drumsticks from the slow cooker or Instant Pot and place them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
3. Brush an additional 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce over the drumsticks.
4. Broil for 3-5 minutes or until the skin is crisp and caramelized to your liking.
Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Use a high-quality BBQ sauce for rich, smoky flavor.
For extra spice, add a dash of chili powder or smoked paprika to the rub.
Serve with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans.
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This Crockpot BBQ Chicken Drumsticks recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing game-day meal. Enjoy these tender, flavorful drumsticks with minimal effort!
