Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks

These slow cooker chicken drumsticks became my lifesaver for busy weeknights when I wanted the house to smell comforting but needed a break from the stove. The chicken turns tender and juicy while the sauce clings perfectly to each drumstick for a sweet and smoky bite.

What Makes It Special

• Uses only a handful of ingredients found at any grocery store
• Cooks hands-off thanks to the slow cooker
• Combines BBQ sauce and blackberry preserves for a unique twist on classic flavors
• Perfect for meal prep or casual gatherings

The first time I blended fruit preserves with BBQ sauce my family was skeptical but after the first taste they all went for seconds. Now it is our go-to for backyard movie nights or when friends come over.

The first time I blended fruit preserves with BBQ sauce my family was skeptical but after the first taste they all went for seconds. Now it is our go-to for backyard movie nights or when friends come over.

What You’ll Need

• Chicken drumsticks: These are affordable and turn incredibly tender in a slow cooker Choose plump and pink drumsticks for the best flavor
• BBQ sauce: Brings bold and smoky notes Look for your favorite brand with a touch of sweetness
• Seedless blackberry preserves: Add a fruity depth to the sauce Opt for a preserve without added seeds for a smooth finish
• Red pepper flakes: Offer a gentle kick Crush fresh if you prefer more heat
• Salt and pepper: Classic seasoning to balance the flavors Use freshly ground pepper for best results
• Cornstarch: Essential for thickening the sauce Wait to add this at the end so it does not break down during cooking

Let’s Cook This Together

Prepare the Chicken:

Nestle the drumsticks snugly in your slow cooker arranging them in a single layer if you can

Season the Meat:

Lightly sprinkle salt pepper and red pepper flakes over all the drumsticks coating each piece thoroughly so every bite is seasoned

Blend the Sauce:

In a bowl mix the BBQ sauce with blackberry preserves stirring until fully combined and smooth You want the flavors to meld together before hitting the heat

Add the Sauce:

Pour that BBQ and blackberry mixture evenly over the chicken making sure all drumsticks are well coated This ensures maximum flavor absorption as they cook

Cook Low and Slow:

Cover and set your slow cooker on high for about four hours or choose low for about six hours The chicken will become fall off the bone tender and infused with the sauce

Thicken the Sauce:

Once the drumsticks are cooked spoon out a few tablespoons of liquid from the cooker Add in cornstarch whisk until smooth then pour back into the pot Give everything a gentle stir

Let the Sauce Set:

Leave the lid off and allow the sauce to thicken in the warm cooker for another half hour You will notice it turn glossy and sticky clinging to each piece of chicken

Good to Know

• Works beautifully with both bone in and boneless drumsticks
• Sauce can be made ahead for even quicker prep
• Flavor improves even more after a night in the fridge

My favorite part of this dish is the unexpected burst of blackberry in the sauce It brings back memories of picking berries with my kids on late summer afternoons and now every bite feels nostalgic and special

My favorite part of this dish is the unexpected burst of blackberry in the sauce It brings back memories of picking berries with my kids on late summer afternoons and now every bite feels nostalgic and special

Keeping It Fresh

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days The sauce tastes even deeper after a night’s rest Warm in the oven or a covered skillet to keep the drumsticks juicy

Easy Ingredient Swaps

If you do not have blackberry preserves try raspberry or even apricot for a similar sweet note Leftover rotisserie chicken can also be tossed in the sauce for a speedy version

How to Serve It Right

Pile the saucy drumsticks high on a platter and sprinkle with a bit of chopped parsley for color Serve alongside roasted potatoes or a crunchy slaw to balance the rich sauce I love offering extra warmed sauce on the side for dipping

Behind the Dish

This recipe was born on a day when all I had was a slow cooker and five minutes to prep That little experiment became a family favorite inspiring me to always keep a jar of preserves on hand for recipes It is the kind of dish that feels homey but still a little surprising

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent chicken from drying out in a slow cooker?

Using bone-in drumsticks and keeping the lid closed during cooking help retain moisture, resulting in juicy chicken.

→ Can I use a different type of preserves instead of blackberry?

Yes, you can substitute with raspberry, apricot, or even orange marmalade for a twist on the flavor, though blackberry pairs especially well with BBQ sauce.

→ Is it necessary to sear the drumsticks before slow cooking?

Searing is not required for this method. The long, slow cook will provide tender, flavorful results on its own.

→ How do I thicken the sauce at the end?

Mix cornstarch with some of the cooking liquid, then stir it back into the slow cooker and allow it to thicken as the drumsticks rest.

→ What sides go well with these drumsticks?

They pair nicely with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.