How To Cook Chicken Drumsticks In Slow Cooker [GUIDE]

Chicken drumsticks are one of the most versatile and flavorful cuts of poultry, prized for their succulent meat and rich, savory taste. Unlike chicken breasts, which can dry out if overcooked, drumsticks offer a perfect balance of dark meat and fat, making them ideal for slow cooking. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together over several hours, producing tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone effortlessly. This method is not only convenient for busy schedules but also locks in flavor, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Whether you prefer a classic herb-roasted flavor, tangy barbecue, or a spicy Asian-inspired glaze, slow-cooked drumsticks can be adapted to suit any palate.

How Long To Cook Chicken Drumsticks In Slow Cooker

The cooking time for chicken drumsticks in a slow cooker depends on the temperature setting and whether the meat is fresh or frozen. On low heat, chicken drumsticks typically require 6-7 hours to cook fully. This long, gentle cooking allows the connective tissue to break down and the meat to become incredibly tender. On high heat, drumsticks cook faster, usually in 3-4 hours, though the texture may not be quite as tender as the low-and-slow method.

If using frozen drumsticks, you should add at least an hour to the cooking time to ensure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature. Always keep in mind that slow cookers can vary in heat intensity, so these times are approximate. Checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer is the most reliable method to ensure the drumsticks are safely cooked.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Determining whether chicken drumsticks are done goes beyond just checking the color of the meat. The most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer, which should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the drumstick, avoiding the bone.

Other indicators include:

• Juices run clear: When pierced with a fork, the juices should not be pink or reddish.
• Tender meat: Properly cooked drumsticks will pull away from the bone easily, with the meat soft and yielding to gentle pressure.
• Skin and texture: While slow cooking won’t produce crispy skin, the skin should be soft and gelatinous, clinging lightly to the meat rather than tough or rubbery.

Avoid cutting the drumsticks open too early, as it can cause the juices to escape and leave the meat slightly dry. Patience is key for perfectly tender slow-cooked chicken.

Ingredients Needed

For a simple, flavorful slow cooker chicken drumsticks recipe, you’ll need:

• Chicken drumsticks – 6-8 pieces, fresh or thawed
• Olive oil – 1-2 tablespoons for searing (optional)
• Salt and black pepper – to taste
• Garlic – 3-4 cloves, minced
• Onion – 1 medium, sliced thinly
• Chicken broth or stock – ½ cup for moisture
• Herbs and spices – e.g., paprika, thyme, rosemary, or a spice blend of your choice
• Optional flavor additions: barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, lemon juice, soy sauce, or honey for glazing

The beauty of slow cooking is that it allows for creativity, so feel free to experiment with marinades, sauces, or aromatics that suit your taste.

How To Cook Chicken Drumsticks In Slow Cooker

1. Prepare the drumsticks: Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick. Season generously with salt, pepper, and your chosen spices.
2. Optional sear: In a hot skillet, brown the drumsticks on all sides in a small amount of olive oil. This step adds a richer flavor but is not mandatory.
3. Layer ingredients: Place sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent sticking and impart flavor. Arrange the drumsticks on top.
4. Add liquid: Pour chicken broth or your chosen sauce over the drumsticks to maintain moisture and enhance flavor.
5. Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid unnecessarily, as it releases heat and extends cooking time.
6. Finish with glaze (optional): For a sticky or caramelized finish, brush the drumsticks with barbecue sauce or honey during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

When Things Go Wrong

Even with a foolproof slow cooker, things can occasionally go awry:

• Undercooked chicken: Usually due to low heat or insufficient cooking time. Always check with a thermometer.
• Dry or tough drumsticks: Often caused by overcooking on high heat. Stick to recommended time ranges.
• Flavorless meat: Can result from too little seasoning or inadequate liquid. Consider marinating the drumsticks beforehand for more depth.
• Excess liquid: If your drumsticks end up swimming in broth, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to allow the liquid to reduce slightly.

Understanding your slow cooker and adjusting time or liquid levels can prevent these issues.

Expert Tips

• Layering matters: Placing aromatics like onions, garlic, and herbs under the drumsticks ensures even flavor distribution.
• Don’t overcrowd: Drumsticks need space for heat circulation. If your slow cooker is packed too tightly, cook in batches.
• Marinate for more flavor: Even a simple overnight marinade in olive oil, lemon, and spices can elevate the dish.
• Finish in the oven: For crispy skin, transfer cooked drumsticks to a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Yes! Chicken drumsticks can be slow-cooked on the stovetop or in an oven:

• Stovetop: Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Simmer drumsticks on low heat with a covered lid for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
• Oven: Bake drumsticks at 300°F (150°C) covered in a roasting pan for 2-3 hours. Uncover in the last 10-15 minutes for slightly crisp skin.

While these methods mimic slow cooking, the convenience of a slow cooker allows unattended cooking, freeing you for other tasks.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

Reheating chicken drumsticks in a slow cooker preserves moisture better than a microwave:

1. Place the drumsticks in the slow cooker.
2. Add a small splash of broth or sauce to prevent drying.
3. Cover and heat on low for 1-2 hours until warmed through.
4. Avoid reheating on high for extended periods, as this can toughen the meat.

Alternatively, reheating in a conventional oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes works well if you prefer quicker results.

FAQs

How Long Does It Take To Cook Chicken Drumsticks In A Slow Cooker?

Chicken drumsticks typically take 4 to 5 hours on High or 6 to 7 hours on Low. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the drumsticks and the efficiency of your slow cooker.

Do I Need To Brown The Chicken Drumsticks Before Slow Cooking?

Browning is optional. Searing the drumsticks before adding them to the slow cooker enhances flavor and improves texture, but it is not required for safe or successful cooking.

Should I Remove The Skin Before Slow Cooking Drumsticks?

You can leave the skin on or remove it based on preference. Leaving the skin on adds flavor but can create extra fat in the sauce. Removing it results in a leaner dish.

Do I Need To Add Liquid When Cooking Chicken Drumsticks In A Slow Cooker?

Most recipes require at least a small amount of liquid such as broth, sauce, or water. Chicken releases moisture during cooking, so typically 1/4 to 1/2 cup is sufficient.

Can I Cook Frozen Chicken Drumsticks In A Slow Cooker?

It is not recommended to cook frozen chicken in a slow cooker due to food safety concerns. Always thaw drumsticks first to ensure they reach a safe temperature quickly and evenly.

How Do I Keep Drumsticks From Becoming Too Soft Or Falling Apart?

Reduce cooking time slightly and avoid overcrowding the slow cooker. For firmer texture, finish the drumsticks under the broiler for several minutes to crisp the exterior.

What Seasonings Work Best With Slow-cooked Chicken Drumsticks?

Popular seasoning options include barbecue sauce, garlic and herb blends, lemon pepper, honey soy marinades, teriyaki sauce, or simple salt, pepper, and paprika.

How Do I Know When Chicken Drumsticks Are Fully Cooked?

The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part near the bone. The meat should also appear opaque and pull away from the bone easily.

Can I Add Vegetables To The Slow Cooker With The Drumsticks?

Yes. Root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and onions work well. Place them at the bottom of the slow cooker since they require more heat and time to soften.

How Can I Thicken The Sauce After Cooking The Drumsticks?

Remove the drumsticks and heat the sauce on High with the lid off for about 15 to 20 minutes, or stir in a cornstarch slurry made of equal parts cornstarch and water.