drumsticks in the crock pot recipe
The Best drumsticks in the crock pot recipe
I love how this dish works for so many different occasions. It’s hearty enough for a family gathering but still light enough to enjoy on a regular night. Plus, the crock pot makes it stress-free, so you can focus on other things while it cooks. And honestly, there’s something comforting about the smell wafting through the house—it’s that warm, savory aroma that makes everything feel just a little bit better. It’s also a great way to use up extra chicken if you’ve got it, and the kids always ask for seconds. Plus, the natural flavors from the spices and herbs make it a healthier option than deep-fried or heavily processed meals. It’s a win all around.
Slow-Cooker Honey-Glazed Drumsticks
Tender chicken drumsticks glazed with a sweet-savory honey-soy sauce, perfect for a hands-off weeknight meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tsp dried thyme
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. -
2
In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and thyme until smooth. -
3
Place the drumsticks in the crock-pot. Pour the glaze mixture over them, ensuring they’re fully coated. -
4
Cook on low for 2 hours or high for 1 hour, until the drumsticks are tender and the glaze thickens slightly.
🔧Equipment
- Crock-Pot
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow-Cooker Honey-Glazed Drumsticks Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow-Cooker Honey-Glazed Drumsticks
How do I know if the drumsticks are cooked through?
The drumsticks are done when the meat is tender and pulls apart easily when you twist them. For a fully cooked result, the internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the bone. You can also check for doneness by cutting into one—if it’s bright red and the juices run clear, they’re ready.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Yes, you can swap chicken thighs for drumsticks, but adjust the cooking time slightly. Thighs take about 5–10 minutes longer than drumsticks in the crock pot because they’re thicker. Check for doneness at 3–4 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high.
What if my drumsticks aren’t bone-in?
Non-bone-in chicken pieces work fine, but they’ll cook faster. For even results, cook on high heat for 1 hour, then reduce to low for the remaining time. If using skinless pieces, add 10 minutes to the total cooking time.
How can I prevent the drumsticks from drying out?
To keep them juicy, avoid overcrowding the pot and let them cook undisturbed for the first 1–2 hours. Add 1 cup of chicken broth or water halfway through if needed, but don’t stir the meat. For extra moisture, lightly coat the drumsticks with olive oil before seasoning.
