Crockpot BBQ Chicken Legs

5 from 26 votes

This recipe for Crockpot BBQ Chicken Legs is a simple family-favorite recipe that delivers juicy, tender chicken drumsticks with minimal effort.

Prep Time10

Cook Time4

Total Time4 10

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Author: Kristen Chidsey

Equipment

6-8 quart Slow Cooker
Digital Thermometer the BEST way to determine the chicken is fully cooked

Ingredients

12 chicken drumsticks skin on or off
1 cup barbecue sauce

For the Rub

1 tablespoon brown sugar optional
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

In a small bowl, prepare the rub by combining 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon black pepper together.
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with a paper towel then liberally rub the spice rub over the chicken, coating to cover.
Grease the slow cooker insert with cooking spray. Place the chicken legs into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4-5 hours.
Once the chicken legs have reached an internal temperature of 175-190℉, remove them from the slow cooker and place them onto a sheet pan or broiler pan. Brush the chicken legs with barbecue sauce and broil until crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Video

Notes

Chicken Skin: For juicy, flavorful chicken drumsticks, cook with the skin on and discard after cooking if you don't want to eat the skin. Alternatively, you can peel off the skin before rubbing with the spice blend. The chicken will be delicious, but not as juicy.

Brown Sugar: This is completely optional, but adds a nice balance to the rub.

All-Clad Slow Cookers: These models can cook a bit faster, so begin checking the temperature of the chicken 30 minutes prior to what the recipe states.

Determining Cook Time: The best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked, but not overcooked is to use a digital thermometer. Once the center of a chicken leg reaches between 165°F the drumsticks are safe to eat, but taking them to closer to 175-190°F ensures they are super tender.

Storage: Store leftover chicken legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 days. Reheat by broiling under a broiler for 2-3 minutes per side.

Nutrition