Slow Cooker Drumsticks

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Drumsticks

• Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the seasoning stick better.
• If you’d like crispier skin, you can lightly brown the drumsticks in a pan with a bit of olive oil before placing them in the slow cooker. This step is optional but adds extra flavor. Just heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the drumsticks on each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.

Step 2: Mix the Seasonings and Sauce

• In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix.
• In another bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), mustard, and chicken broth. This will form your sauce.

Step 3: Season the Drumsticks

• Sprinkle the dry seasoning mixture evenly over the drumsticks. If you browned them, this will be the last step before placing them in the slow cooker. If you skipped the browning step, just rub the seasonings onto the drumsticks while they are raw.
• Place the seasoned drumsticks in the slow cooker. You can stack them, but try to arrange them as evenly as possible so that the heat can circulate and cook them evenly.

Step 4: Pour the Sauce

• Pour the prepared sauce over the drumsticks, ensuring they are all covered. The sauce adds moisture, flavor, and sweetness, balancing the spices and creating a rich glaze.

Step 5: Cook in the Slow Cooker

• Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The drumsticks are done when they are tender and easily pull away from the bone. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Once the drumsticks are cooked, remove them from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving platter. You can spoon some of the sauce from the slow cooker over the top for extra flavor.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Step 7: Enjoy!

• Serve your slow cooker drumsticks alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Your family will love the juicy, flavorful chicken that’s just fallen off the bone!

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Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Drumsticks

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: If your slow cooker is too full, the drumsticks may not cook evenly. If you’re cooking a large batch, consider using a larger slow cooker or cooking in batches.
2. Use Bone-In Drumsticks: Bone-in drumsticks are perfect for slow cooking because the bone helps keep the meat moist and adds flavor. Boneless drumsticks will cook faster, but the texture may not be as juicy.
3. Customize the Sauce: Feel free to get creative with the sauce! You can use different types of mustard (like spicy brown or honey mustard), add a bit of BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor, or even use a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
4. Add Vegetables: If you’d like to make your meal a one-pot dish, try adding some veggies to the slow cooker. Carrots, potatoes, and onions work well with this recipe. Add them at the beginning of cooking for tender vegetables by the time your drumsticks are done.
5. Make It a Freezer Meal: If you want to save time later, you can prepare the drumsticks in advance. Season the chicken and prepare the sauce, then place everything in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, just dump the contents into the slow cooker and cook as usual. It’s an easy way to have dinner ready in a pinch!

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Why Slow Cooker Drumsticks Are Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best things about slow cooker drumsticks is that they’re perfect for meal prep. You can easily cook a big batch and store the leftovers for future meals. The chicken stays juicy and tender in the fridge for 3-4 days, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Here are some ideas for using leftover slow cooker drumsticks:

• Chicken Tacos: Shred the meat and use it for taco fillings. Add your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, and shredded cheese.
• Chicken Salad: Shred the chicken and mix with mayo, mustard, chopped veggies, and seasonings for a simple and satisfying chicken salad.
• Chicken and Rice: Pair the leftover chicken with some rice and vegetables for a hearty meal.
• Sandwiches: Shred the chicken and use it for sandwiches or wraps. Add some lettuce, tomato, and your favorite spread.

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Conclusion: A Simple, Flavorful Dinner Made Easy

Slow cooker drumsticks are a simple, flavorful, and low-effort way to prepare a delicious meal. With minimal preparation, you can have tender, juicy drumsticks that your whole family will love. The best part? The slow cooker does most of the work for you! So, next time you’re looking for an easy dinner solution, give this recipe a try. You’ll be amazed at how delicious and effortless it is to make a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.