Go Back
barbecue chicken drumsticks crock pot recipe

Barbecue Chicken Drumsticks Crock Pot

Juicy, flavorful barbecue chicken drumsticks made in the crock pot with only 3 ingredients. Finished under the broiler for a sticky, crispy glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights and slow-cooked comfort.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 323
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 –3 pounds Chicken drumsticks Skin-on for best texture
  • 2 tbsp BBQ rub Homemade or store-bought
  • 2.5 cups BBQ sauce Divided use
  • as needed Cooking spray or olive oil To coat the slow cooker

Equipment

  • 1 Crock Pot 6-quart recommended
  • 1 Baking Sheet For broiling at the end
  • 1 Basting Brush To apply extra BBQ sauce
  • 1 Tongs For easy handling of drumsticks

Method
 

  1. Spray the inside of your crock pot with cooking spray or lightly coat with oil.
  2. Rub the BBQ seasoning all over the chicken drumsticks.
  3. Layer drumsticks in the crock pot, adding BBQ sauce between layers.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
  5. Preheat your broiler. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly oil it.
  6. Transfer drumsticks to the baking sheet and brush with remaining BBQ sauce.
  7. Broil for 3–5 minutes until edges are crispy and sauce is bubbling.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use thick BBQ sauce for best texture and flavor.
  • For added sweetness, mix a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar into the sauce.
  • To make it spicy, add chipotle peppers or red pepper flakes.
  • Drumsticks can be replaced with thighs or bone-in legs.