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5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Legs Recipe

5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Legs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 60 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Lactose

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

  1. 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.
  2. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, and minced garlic until fully combined.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken drumsticks in the slow cooker, making sure all pieces are lightly coated.
  4. 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).
  5. 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