The Ultimate Crock-Pot Chicken Drumsticks (Sweet, Spicy & Sticky!)
Imagine the most perfectly cooked chicken drumstick—unbelievably tender, falling right off the bone, and lacquered in a sticky, sweet, and savory glaze with a gentle kick of heat. Now, imagine achieving that restaurant-quality result with almost zero effort, thanks to your slow cooker. That, my friends, is the weeknight-winning, crowd-pleasing magic of these Crock-Pot Chicken Drumsticks. This is, without a doubt, the easiest and most flavorful chicken drumstick recipe you will ever make.
I promise you, from the moment you pour that simple marinade over the chicken, you’ll know you’re in for a treat. The final, quick trip under the broiler is the secret that takes these from simply delicious to absolutely irresistible, creating a beautiful, caramelized, and slightly crispy skin. It’s a true show-stopper that is perfect for a busy family dinner, a game day feast, or any time you’re craving a seriously delicious and easy meal.
Get ready to let your crock-pot do the heavy lifting and create a stunning, unforgettable batch of chicken that will have everyone licking their fingers and asking for more.
Why This Will Be Your New Favorite Chicken Recipe!
You are going to be completely obsessed with this simple, savory, and incredibly satisfying dish. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Here’s why you have to make it:
- Fall-Off-the-Bone Tender: The low-and-slow cooking method is the secret to the most incredibly tender, succulent, and juicy chicken drumsticks imaginable.
- A Powerhouse of Sweet and Spicy Flavor: The simple marinade is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, tangy, and spicy, creating a sticky, addictive glaze that coats every single piece of chicken.
Recipe Snapshot
| Prep Time | 10 minutes (+ 30 mins marinating) |
| Cook Time | ~4 hours |
| Total Time | ~4 hours 40 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Calories | 573 kcal per serving |
| Course | Main Course |
| Cuisine | American / Asian-Inspired |
| Difficulty/Method | Easy / Slow Cooker |
Your Shopping List for These Sticky Drumsticks
This recipe uses a handful of powerful pantry staples to create its incredible flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
→ For the Chicken and Marinade
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce → The savory, umami-rich base.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth → Adds depth to the cooking liquid.
- 1/4 cup sweet Thai chili sauce → For the perfect touch of sweetness and gentle heat.
- 2 Tbsp. Sriracha → For that signature spicy kick. Adjust to your heat preference!
- 2 Tbsp. brown sugar → Helps to create a beautiful, caramelized glaze.
- Juice of 1 lime → For a bright, tangy finish that cuts through the richness.
- 1″ fresh ginger, peeled and minced → Adds a wonderful, warm, zesty spice.
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed → The essential savory, aromatic foundation.
- 4 to 4 1/2 lbs. chicken drumsticks → The star of the show!
→ For Garnish
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp. toasted sesame seeds
Let’s Get Cooking! Your Step-by-Step Guide
Ready for the easiest, most rewarding chicken dinner ever? Let’s get that slow cooker ready to work its magic.
Crock-Pot Sweet and Spicy Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chicken broth, chili sauce, Sriracha, brown sugar, and lime juice. Stir in ginger and garlic.
- Place drumsticks in a large resealable bag. Pour the marinade over and seal. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
- Pour the drumsticks and all the marinade into a slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours or on LOW for 5 to 6 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. Transfer the cooked drumsticks to a large foil-lined baking sheet.
- Broil for 3 to 5 minutes, watching carefully, until the skin is golden and crisp.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds and serve hot.
