Juicy, tender, and loaded with bold smoky-sweet flavor, these Easy Crock Pot Barbecue Chicken Legs are a weeknight dinner dream come true. With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing all the hard work, this recipe delivers perfectly seasoned drumsticks coated in a rich barbecue sauce blend infused with honey, Worcestershire sauce, and aromatic spices like garlic powder and paprika. For added depth of flavor, a quick sear in olive oil locks in a golden, caramelized exterior before the slow cooking begins. Whether served as a crowd-pleasing party appetizer or a comforting main dish with sides like coleslaw or mashed potatoes, these BBQ chicken drumsticks are sure to impress. Plus, with the option to broil for crispy skin, this recipe offers the perfect balance of convenience and customizable texture. Perfect for busy families or game-day gatherings!
Prepare the chicken drumsticks by patting them dry with a paper towel. Lightly season them with the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
In a medium-sized bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. Set the sauce aside.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken drumsticks for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown. This step is optional but adds extra flavor.
Place the seared chicken drumsticks at the bottom of your crock pot in an even layer.
Pour the barbecue sauce mixture evenly over the chicken drumsticks to coat them well.
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Optional: If you prefer crispy skin, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet, brush with additional barbecue sauce, and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes.
Serve the chicken legs hot with your favorite side dishes, such as coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or corn on the cob.
Calories |
2372 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 90.6 g | 116% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.2 g | 116% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 744 mg | 248% | |
| Sodium | 6158 mg | 268% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 210.2 g | 76% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.4 g | 19% | |
| Total Sugars | 171.8 g | ||
| Protein | 182.3 g | 365% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 266 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 11.9 mg | 66% | |
| Potassium | 2996 mg | 64% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.