Description
This 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Legs recipe is a fuss-free, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With just a handful of common pantry staples, you can create tender, juicy chicken drumsticks that practically cook themselves. Ideal for families or anyone wanting a protein-packed main dish with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken Legs
- 2 to 2.5 pounds chicken drumsticks (about 8-10 chicken legs)
For the Seasoning Blend
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (use low-sodium if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to help the sauce adhere and ensure even cooking. Arrange them in a single layer in the bottom of a slow cooker.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, and minced garlic until fully combined.
- Coat the Chicken: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken drumsticks in the slow cooker, making sure all pieces are lightly coated.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook the chicken legs on low for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Finish and Serve: For extra flavor and color, place cooked chicken legs under the broiler for about 3-4 minutes. Spoon sauce over the chicken and serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for drumsticks; adjust cooking time as needed.
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove chicken at the end of cooking, pour sauce into a saucepan, and simmer for a few minutes to reduce.
- Broiling the chicken at the end is optional but adds a nice caramelized finish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 drumsticks
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 760mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 135mg