Crockpot BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate how effortless this meal is to prepare. I simply season the drumsticks, add sauce, and let the slow cooker do the work. The homemade BBQ rub adds depth and warmth, while the sauce keeps the chicken moist and rich. I also like that I can finish the drumsticks under the broiler for a slightly crispy, caramelized exterior.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 pounds chicken drumsticks, seasoned with salt and pepper
2 cups BBQ sauce
1/4 cup BBQ rub

For the Homemade BBQ Rub:
4 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 1/2 teaspoons salt (or more to taste)
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne

1 cup water (for Instant Pot only)

Directions

Slow Cooker Method

1. Add the chicken: I place the drumsticks directly into the slow cooker.

2. Season and coat: I sprinkle the BBQ rub over the chicken and pour the BBQ sauce on top. I toss everything until the drumsticks are evenly coated.

3. Cook: I cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or on LOW for 6–8 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Instant Pot Method

1. Season the chicken: In a bowl, I mix together the homemade rub spices. I toss the drumsticks with the rub until evenly coated.

2. Prepare the pot: I pour 1 cup of water into the base of the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside.

3. Add the chicken: I arrange the drumsticks on the trivet and pour the BBQ sauce over them.

4. Pressure cook: I close the lid, seal the valve, and cook on high pressure for 12 minutes. Once finished, I carefully quick release the pressure.

Optional Broiling Step

1. Preheat the broiler: I set my oven to broil and line a baking sheet with foil.

2. Transfer the drumsticks: Using tongs, I carefully place the hot drumsticks in a single layer on the baking sheet.

3. Brush with sauce: I brush about 1/2 cup of additional BBQ sauce over the drumsticks.

4. Broil: I broil for 3–5 minutes, until the edges are slightly crisp and caramelized to my liking.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6–8 (depending on portion size)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time (slow cooker HIGH): 3–4 hours
Cook time (slow cooker LOW): 6–8 hours
Cook time (Instant Pot): 12 minutes + pressure time

Variations

I sometimes use a smoky BBQ sauce for deeper flavor or a honey-based sauce for extra sweetness. If I want a spicier kick, I increase the cayenne in the rub or add a dash of hot sauce. I also enjoy adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the sauce for a tangy finish.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I place them in a 350°F oven for about 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. I can also microwave them, though I prefer reheating in the oven to keep the texture better. For longer storage, I freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen drumsticks?

I prefer thawing them first for even cooking, but I can cook from frozen in the Instant Pot by increasing the cooking time slightly.

Do I need to brown the chicken first?

No, I don’t need to brown the drumsticks beforehand, though broiling at the end adds great texture.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

I check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the meat is tender and pulling away from the bone.

Can I use store-bought BBQ rub?

Yes, I can substitute a store-bought rub if I want to save time.

What sides go well with BBQ chicken drumsticks?

I like serving them with coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

I find these crockpot BBQ chicken drumsticks to be one of the easiest and most reliable comfort meals I can prepare. With minimal prep and bold flavor, they’re perfect for busy days, family dinners, or casual gatherings. Whether I finish them in the slow cooker or crisp them under the broiler, they always come out tender and delicious.