Tired of complicated dinners? Craving a healthy and flavorful meal that's practically effortless? Then look no further! This chicken drumsticks crock pot recipe is your answer. Imagine tender, juicy chicken drumsticks, falling off the bone, with a rich and savory sauce – all made with minimal effort in your trusty slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, effortless entertaining, or simply a comforting homemade meal. It's one of those easy recipes that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but it only takes minutes to prep!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind!)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prep the ingredients: Start by chopping the onion, carrots, and celery. This is the most time-consuming part of the entire recipe, and it only takes about 5 minutes!
- Layer in the crock pot: Place the chopped vegetables at the bottom of your slow cooker. Then, arrange the chicken drumsticks on top of the vegetables.
- Combine the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour over the chicken: Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Cook on low: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily falls off the bone. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, serve the chicken drumsticks hot, alongside the delicious vegetables. You can enjoy them as is, or serve them over rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish.
Cooking Tips for Extra Delicious Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the crock pot: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken drumsticks to allow for even cooking. If necessary, use two crock pots.
- Use bone-in, skin-on drumsticks: The bone and skin add flavor and help keep the chicken moist.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. A dash of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick!
- Thicken the sauce (optional): For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and vegetables from the slow cooker, then simmer the sauce on the stovetop until it reduces to your desired consistency. You can also mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to thicken it.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Honey Garlic Chicken: Replace the barbecue sauce with honey and soy sauce for a sweet and savory glaze.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon, along with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, to the sauce for a bright and flavorful dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate for one serving (assuming 4 servings) is approximately:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy crock pot recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both simple and satisfying. The homemade cooking experience is elevated with this recipe, making it a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Try it out and let us know what you think!