Crockpot BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Crockpot BBQ chicken drumsticks made with a simple homemade BBQ rub and your favorite barbecue sauce. Juicy, tender chicken slow cooked to perfection with minimal prep and maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3–8 hours
- Total Time: Varies by method
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker / Instant Pot / Broiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
3 pounds chicken drumsticks, seasoned with salt & pepper
2 cups BBQ sauce
¼ cup BBQ rub (homemade below or store-bought)
1 cup water (for Instant Pot only)
Homemade BBQ Rub:
4 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 ½ teaspoons salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
Slow Cooker Method
Add the chicken drumsticks to the slow cooker.
Sprinkle the BBQ rub evenly over the drumsticks.
Pour the BBQ sauce on top. Toss until evenly coated.
Cover and cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or LOW for 6–8 hours, until tender and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 75°C).
Instant Pot Method
In a small bowl, mix together the homemade rub spices.
Place drumsticks in a large bowl and coat evenly with the rub mixture.
Pour 1 cup water into the base of the Instant Pot. Insert the trivet.
Arrange the drumsticks on the trivet and pour BBQ sauce over the top.
Close lid and seal valve. Cook on High Pressure for 12 minutes.
Carefully quick release the pressure when cooking is complete.
Optional Broiling Step (For Crispy Skin)
Preheat oven to BROIL.
Line a baking sheet with foil.
Carefully remove drumsticks using tongs and place in a single layer.
Brush with additional BBQ sauce (about ½ cup if desired).
Broil for 3–5 minutes, or until caramelized and slightly crisp.
Notes
Broiling adds a delicious sticky glaze and slight crisp texture.
Use your favorite smoky, sweet, or spicy BBQ sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze cooked drumsticks for up to 2 months.
Find it online: https://elladishes.com/crockpot-bbq-chicken-drumsticks/
