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Crockpot BBQ Chicken Legs

Crockpot BBQ Chicken Legs

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

  • Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels.
  • In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Rub this seasoning mix evenly over the drumsticks.

2. Set Up the Crockpot

  • Spray the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray or lightly coat with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  • Arrange the seasoned chicken legs in the crockpot in a single layer, overlapping slightly if needed.

3. Add the BBQ Sauce

  • Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken legs, ensuring each piece is coated.
  • For an extra touch of sweetness, mix honey or brown sugar into the BBQ sauce before pouring.

4. Cook Low and Slow

  • Cover and cook on low heat for 5-6 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).

5. Optional Step: Broil for a Crispy Finish

  • For crispy, caramelized chicken skin, transfer the cooked drumsticks to a baking sheet lined with foil.
  • Brush with additional BBQ sauce and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until slightly charred and sticky.

6. Serve and Enjoy

  • Plate the chicken legs and drizzle with any leftover BBQ sauce from the crockpot.
  • Pair with coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken Legs

  1. Choose Your BBQ Sauce Wisely: Use a sauce you love! Sweet, smoky, or spicy—it’s up to you.
  2. Double the Recipe: Easily scale up the recipe for a crowd. Just ensure the crockpot isn’t overfilled.
  3. Use Chicken Thighs or Wings: This recipe is versatile and works with other cuts of chicken, too.
  4. Make It Smokier: Add a splash of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce for that authentic smoky flavor.
  5. Thicken the Sauce: If you like thicker BBQ sauce, transfer it to a saucepan and simmer until reduced.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless Cooking: The crockpot does all the work while you go about your day.
  • Perfectly Tender: Slow cooking ensures juicy, fall-off-the-bone chicken.
  • Versatile: Works great as a main dish, party snack, or meal prep option.
  • Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, smokiness, or spice level to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

These Crockpot BBQ Chicken Legs are proof that simple ingredients and a little patience can lead to a mouthwatering meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for an easy dinner option, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

Dust off your crockpot and get ready to serve up a dish that will have everyone licking their fingers and asking for seconds. Enjoy!

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