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bbq chicken legs in the crock pot served rustic-style

BBQ Chicken Legs in the Crock Pot

Summary: BBQ chicken legs in the crock pot are juicy, flavorful, and fall-off-the-bone tender. An easy slow cooker meal with minimal prep and maximum comfort.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Resting Time 0 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 –3 lbs Chicken drumsticks Skin-on bone-in
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Onion powder
  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika
  • To taste Salt and black pepper
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce Plus more for finishing
  • 1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar Optional adds depth

Equipment

  • 1 Crock Pot 4–6 quart size recommended
  • 1 Baking Sheet For optional broiling

Method
 

  1. Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
    patting chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels
  2. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
    spice mix for crock pot bbq chicken drumsticks
  3. Rub seasoning blend all over the drumsticks.
  4. Place drumsticks in the crock pot in a single layer.
    seasoned chicken drumsticks arranged in crock pot
  5. Pour about ½ cup of BBQ sauce over the chicken, just enough to lightly coat.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–3.5 hours.
  7. Optional: After cooking, transfer chicken to a foil-lined baking sheet.
  8. Brush with more BBQ sauce and broil 3–5 minutes for caramelized edges.
  9. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
    plated crock pot BBQ chicken legs with sides

Notes

Don’t overdo the sauce at the beginning, save most for the finish.
Broiling isn’t required, but adds a grilled texture.
Great leftovers! Store in airtight container up to 3 days.