Easy Crock Pot BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Need a simple, no-fuss dinner? These easy crock pot BBQ chicken drumsticks take just 5 minutes of prep and three ingredients! Let your slow cooker do the work, and you'll have juicy, fall-off-the-bone chicken ready for dinner.

Slow cooker chicken drumsticks are a budget-friendly meal the whole family will love. The low-and-slow cooking method keeps the meat tender and full of flavor. Just season the drumsticks, coat them in BBQ sauce, and let them cook-no need to brown them first! If you want crispy skin, you can broil them for a few minutes at the end.

This post may include affiliate links. For more info, see my disclosure here.

Ingredients You'll Need

Making flavorful chicken drumsticks in your crock pot is super easy. You only need a few simple ingredients.

• Chicken Drumsticks - Look for organic drumsticks (I keep my freezer stocked with this chicken). Dark meat stays juicy and tender in the slow cooker.
• Seasonings - I like using my homemade chili powder (smoked paprika (both sweet and hot), cumin, garlic powder and oregano) mixed with a bit of sea salt, but feel free to use your favorite spice blend.
• BBQ Sauce - Choose a high-quality BBQ sauce made with real ingredients. Avoid added sugar and artificial ingredients. I like this one and this one.

How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Drumsticks

Cooking chicken drumsticks in the slow cooker is effortless. Here's how to do it.

1. Season the Chicken: Place the drumsticks in a large bowl and toss them with the spice blend until fully coated.
2. Arrange in the Crock Pot: Stack the drumsticks in alternating directions so they fit well. Pour BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken.

3. Cook Low and Slow: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 4-6 hours until the meat is tender and fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
4. Crisp the Skin (Optional): For crispy, caramelized skin, transfer the cooked drumsticks to a baking sheet. Brush with extra BBQ sauce and broil for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Equipment You'll Need

• Slow Cooker - A model with a built-in timer and a "keep warm" option makes this even easier.
• Meat Thermometer - Ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat (165°F).

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Make your meal complete with one of these easy side dishes:

• Sweet Potato Salad - A spicy-sweet twist on potato salad made with sweet potatoes has chipotle and lime flavors that pair perfectly with BBQ.
• Creamy Coleslaw - A cool, crunchy non dairy coleslaw that takes just minutes to make. Try the spicy version with this.
• Grain-Free Cornbread - Perfect for soaking up that extra sauce.

Keep it simple so your sides complement, not compete with, the BBQ drumsticks. A fresh green salad or air fryer veggies also work well if you want a lighter option.

And if you're in the mood for something on the grill, these grilled marinated chicken drumsticks are another easy weeknight option.

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Here are more ways to reheat chicken.

More Crock Pot Chicken Recipes

Love easy slow cooker meals? Try these next:

• Crock Pot Chicken Soup - A cozy, comforting meal with rich broth and tender chicken.
• Whole Chicken in the Slow Cooker - A hands-off way to make juicy, flavorful crockpot chicken that falls right off the bone.
• Cauliflower Chicken Chili - A hearty, low-carb chili packed with flavor and texture.
• Homemade Chicken Stock - Save money by making your own rich, flavorful broth using leftover bones and veggies.

This easy crock pot BBQ chicken drumsticks recipe makes dinnertime effortless and delicious. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you'll have a meal everyone will love!