Delicious and Easy Chicken Drumsticks in a Slow Cooker
Are you craving a flavorful and tender chicken dish that requires minimal effort? Look no further than cooking chicken drumsticks in a slow cooker! This method allows the meat to simmer in its own juices, resulting in succulent, fall-off-the-bone chicken that will impress your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or simply want to enjoy a stress-free meal, this recipe will become your go-to favorite.
What You’ll Need
- 6-8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for some extra heat)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening the sauce)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Start by seasoning the chicken drumsticks with salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if desired. Rub the spices onto the chicken to ensure even distribution.
- Next, heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Brown the drumsticks on all sides for a few minutes to enhance the flavor and create a crispy exterior.
- Transfer the browned drumsticks to your slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth. The broth will infuse the chicken with moisture and keep it tender during the cooking process.
- Set the slow cooker to low heat, cover with the lid, and let it cook for 4-6 hours. This method allows the chicken to slowly cook and develop intense flavors.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and stir gently to combine.
- Once the chicken drumsticks are cooked to perfection, remove them from the slow cooker and transfer to a serving dish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra burst of freshness and color.
Serve your delicious slow-cooked chicken drumsticks with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The tender and flavorful meat will surely impress your family and friends.
Now that you know the secret to preparing chicken drumsticks in a slow cooker, you can enjoy a tasty and effortless meal any day of the week. Plus, the leftovers make for great sandwiches or meal prep options. So, dust off that slow cooker and get ready to indulge in succulent and juicy chicken drumsticks like never before!
Share your tips and tricks for making delicious slow cooker chicken drumsticks in the Cooking Techniques forum section.
FAQ:
Can I cook frozen chicken drumsticks in a slow cooker?
It is not recommended to cook frozen chicken drumsticks directly in a slow cooker. Thaw the drumsticks completely before cooking to ensure even and safe cooking. You can thaw them by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or using the defrost setting on your microwave.
Should I remove the skin from the chicken drumsticks before slow cooking?
The decision to remove the skin or not depends on personal preference. Keeping the skin intact will result in moist and flavorful drumsticks as the slow cooker will help render the fat. However, if you prefer less fat, you can remove the skin before cooking.
How long should I cook chicken drumsticks in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for chicken drumsticks in a slow cooker will vary based on the size of the drumsticks and the heat setting used. On low heat, chicken drumsticks usually take about 4-6 hours to cook, while on high heat, they can be ready in approximately 2-3 hours. It’s always best to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached 165°F (74°C).
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the chicken drumsticks?
Yes, you can add vegetables to the slow cooker with the chicken drumsticks to make a complete meal. Root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and onions work well as they can cook alongside the drumsticks without getting overly soft. Just make sure to cut them into larger chunks so they can withstand the slow cooking process.
Do I need to add liquid to the slow cooker when cooking chicken drumsticks?
Adding liquid is crucial when cooking chicken drumsticks in a slow cooker to prevent them from drying out. You can use chicken broth, stock, water, or even a combination of these liquids. The amount of liquid depends on personal preference, but a good rule of thumb is to cover the drumsticks about halfway to three-quarters of the way up.
Can I use marinades or sauces with chicken drumsticks in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Marinades and sauces can add flavor and depth to your chicken drumsticks. You can marinate the drumsticks overnight in your preferred marinade before placing them in the slow cooker. Alternatively, you can also pour your favorite sauce over the drumsticks during the cooking process or towards the end. This will infuse the chicken with delicious flavors.
Should I brown the chicken drumsticks before slow cooking them?
Browning the chicken drumsticks before slow cooking is not necessary but can enhance the overall flavor and appearance. If you have the time, you can quickly sear the drumsticks in a hot skillet with some oil to achieve a nice golden color. However, it is not a mandatory step for slow cooking chicken drumsticks.
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