Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 3 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Dry Rub
- 1/4 cup favorite dry rub or spice mixture
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, salt, paprika, black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and any additional dry rub spices to create a flavorful spice mixture.
- Coat the Chicken: Place the chicken drumsticks, olive oil, and dry rub mixture into a large plastic bag. Seal the bag and toss well to evenly coat each drumstick with the spices and oil.
- Arrange in Slow Cooker: Lay the seasoned chicken in a single, even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker, alternating the orientation of pieces to fit more. Pour half of the barbecue sauce over the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low heat for approximately 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
- Finish with BBQ Sauce: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and toss the drumsticks in the remaining barbecue sauce for an extra layer of flavor and moisture.
- Serve: Serve the drumsticks immediately while hot, perfect alongside your favorite sides.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes.
- Use your favorite brand of barbecue sauce to customize the taste, whether smoky, sweet, or tangy.
- To crisp the skin after slow cooking, briefly broil the chicken drumsticks in the oven for 3-5 minutes before tossing in the remaining sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Chicken can also be cooked on high for about 2-3 hours, but low and slow yields better tenderness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
