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When it comes to simple, mouthwatering meals, nothing beats the ease and convenience of crockpot recipes.
And when you combine the power of a slow cooker with the irresistible flavors of BBQ, you get the ultimate dinner solution that’s both delicious and hassle-free.
Crockpot BBQ drumsticks are a perfect example of how this cooking method can transform a simple cut of chicken into something extraordinary.
Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something savory, these 26+ crockpot BBQ drumstick recipes will become your go-to for flavorful, tender chicken every time.
From sweet and smoky to spicy and tangy, there’s a recipe to satisfy every taste.
So, get your crockpot ready and let’s dive into the best BBQ drumstick recipes you’ll want to try again and again!
26+ Mouthwatering Crockpot BBQ Drumstick Recipes You Need to Try
Crockpot BBQ drumsticks are the perfect way to bring delicious, juicy chicken to the table with minimal effort.
The beauty of using a slow cooker is the ability to create tender, flavorful meals with minimal prep time, allowing you to focus on enjoying your meal rather than stressing over complicated cooking techniques.
With over 26 different BBQ drumstick recipes to choose from, you’ll never run out of tasty options for family dinners, parties, or even meal prep.
From classic smoky BBQ to tropical twists and fiery spice, these recipes offer a delightful variety of flavors to suit every palate.
So, whether you’re new to crockpot cooking or a seasoned pro, these recipes will inspire you to experiment and create new BBQ favorites that everyone will love.
Honey Garlic BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
These honey garlic BBQ drumsticks are a sweet and savory delight that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The rich flavors of honey and garlic blend seamlessly with smoky barbecue sauce, creating a dish that’s sure to impress your family and guests.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, barbecue sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
- Place the drumsticks in your crockpot and pour the sauce mixture over them, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Optional: Transfer the drumsticks to a baking sheet and broil for 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
The honey garlic BBQ drumsticks are incredibly tender and infused with flavor. Pair them with coleslaw or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. This recipe is perfect for anyone craving a finger-licking good dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Spicy Maple BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
For those who enjoy a kick of heat balanced with sweetness, these spicy maple BBQ drumsticks are a must-try. The combination of maple syrup and hot sauce gives the dish a unique, bold flavor profile that’ll leave you wanting more.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1/3 cup hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, hot sauce, barbecue sauce, Dijon mustard, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
- Arrange drumsticks in the crockpot and pour the sauce over them.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Optional: Brush drumsticks with additional sauce and broil for 5 minutes to enhance the glaze.
These spicy maple BBQ drumsticks are a fiery, sweet treat for your taste buds. Perfect for game nights or potlucks, they pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad.
Pineapple Teriyaki BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
These pineapple teriyaki BBQ drumsticks are a tropical twist on the classic BBQ recipe. The sweetness of pineapple and the tangy teriyaki sauce create a mouthwatering fusion of flavors that’s both exotic and comforting.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, with juice)
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix pineapple chunks (with juice), teriyaki sauce, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, ginger powder, and black pepper.
- Add drumsticks to the crockpot and pour the pineapple teriyaki mixture over them.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve with the pineapple chunks spooned over the drumsticks for extra flavor.
The pineapple teriyaki BBQ drumsticks are juicy and bursting with a tropical flair. Serve them over steamed rice or alongside a medley of grilled vegetables for a vibrant and satisfying meal.
Classic Smoky BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
This classic smoky BBQ recipe is a go-to for anyone who loves bold, traditional barbecue flavors. With its rich, tangy sauce and tender chicken, it’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Place the drumsticks in your crockpot and pour the sauce over them, ensuring even coating.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Optional: Broil the drumsticks for 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
These smoky BBQ drumsticks are a crowd-pleaser, pairing perfectly with cornbread, baked beans, or potato salad. It’s a true barbecue classic made easy with your crockpot.
Sweet and Spicy Chipotle BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
These sweet and spicy chipotle BBQ drumsticks deliver a punch of flavor with smoky chipotle peppers balanced by a hint of sweetness. A unique twist on traditional BBQ chicken, this recipe is ideal for those who love bold, adventurous flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine barbecue sauce, honey, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cumin, and garlic powder.
- Arrange drumsticks in the crockpot and pour the sauce over them.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
The result is a spicy yet sweet dish with a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with rice or grilled corn. Perfect for lovers of bold flavors!
Brown Sugar Bourbon BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
A fusion of sweet brown sugar and the deep flavor of bourbon makes this BBQ recipe an indulgent treat. These drumsticks are perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Mix barbecue sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Pour the sauce mixture over drumsticks in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
The bourbon adds a sophisticated depth of flavor to these juicy drumsticks. Serve with roasted sweet potatoes or buttery biscuits for a meal that feels both comforting and refined.
Asian Sesame BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
This Asian-inspired recipe features a tangy sesame twist that brings an international flair to your crockpot. It’s a savory-sweet delight with hints of soy and sesame.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Whisk soy sauce, barbecue sauce, sesame oil, honey, and grated ginger in a bowl.
- Place drumsticks in the crockpot and pour the sauce over them.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the drumsticks before serving.
These sesame BBQ drumsticks are perfect with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a delicious, Asian-inspired meal.
Cranberry BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
Tangy cranberries meet smoky barbecue in this unique recipe that’s both festive and flavorful. It’s perfect for holidays or any time you want to try something different.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole or jellied)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme
Instructions
- Combine cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, and thyme in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture over the drumsticks in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
The tartness of cranberries perfectly balances the smoky barbecue sauce, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. Serve with wild rice or roasted root vegetables for a hearty meal.
Lemon Herb BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
This fresh and zesty recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and herbs with the smoky depth of barbecue sauce. It’s light yet packed with flavor, perfect for spring or summer meals.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and pour the mixture over them.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Garnish with fresh lemon slices before serving.
The citrusy brightness of the lemon herb BBQ drumsticks is incredibly refreshing, making it perfect when served with a simple side salad or grilled asparagus.
Garlic Parmesan BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
These garlic Parmesan BBQ drumsticks are a perfect combination of savory garlic, rich Parmesan, and smoky barbecue flavors. It’s a wonderful fusion of Italian-inspired seasoning with the comforting, familiar taste of BBQ chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, minced garlic, oregano, and black pepper.
- Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and pour the sauce mixture over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Optional: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top of the drumsticks and broil for 5 minutes to create a crispy finish.
These garlic Parmesan BBQ drumsticks are both rich and savory, perfect for a family dinner. Serve with mashed potatoes or garlic bread for a comforting and indulgent meal.
Maple Dijon BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
The blend of sweet maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard creates a beautifully balanced sauce that’s both bold and comforting. These drumsticks are perfect for anyone looking for a unique BBQ twist.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper.
- Coat the drumsticks with the maple Dijon sauce and place them in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
The maple Dijon BBQ drumsticks have a rich sweetness with a zesty finish, ideal for pairing with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. It’s a perfect dish for those who love a balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
Buffalo BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
If you love spicy wings, you’ll adore these Buffalo BBQ drumsticks. A fusion of spicy buffalo sauce and smoky barbecue sauce creates an irresistible flavor combination that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder.
- Pour the sauce over the drumsticks in the crockpot, ensuring they’re fully coated.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Optional: Serve with a side of ranch dressing or blue cheese for dipping.
The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and smoky BBQ is an exciting twist that’s sure to be a hit at any party or gathering. Serve with celery and carrot sticks for an authentic wing experience!
Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
What’s better than juicy drumsticks? Bacon-wrapped drumsticks! This indulgent recipe adds smoky, crispy bacon to the mix for a deliciously savory BBQ experience.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Wrap each drumstick in a slice of bacon and secure with toothpicks.
- In a bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and honey.
- Coat the bacon-wrapped drumsticks in the BBQ sauce mixture.
- Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Optional: Broil the bacon-wrapped drumsticks for 5-7 minutes to make the bacon extra crispy.
These bacon-wrapped BBQ drumsticks are a decadent treat that’s perfect for special occasions or as a hearty snack. Pair them with a side of fries or a crispy salad for the ultimate indulgence.
Mango Habanero BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
For those who love a fiery kick with a touch of sweetness, the mango habanero BBQ drumsticks are a perfect choice. The combination of juicy mango and fiery habanero peppers adds depth and heat to this unique dish.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup mango puree (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1-2 habanero peppers (seeds removed, chopped)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
Instructions
- In a blender, combine mango puree, barbecue sauce, honey, chopped habanero peppers, lime juice, and cumin. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the drumsticks in the crockpot, coating them well.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
These mango habanero BBQ drumsticks are spicy, sweet, and tangy all at once. Serve with a cooling side of rice or a tangy cucumber salad to balance the heat.
Peach BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
The sweetness of peaches combined with smoky BBQ flavors creates a deliciously fruity and savory dish. These drumsticks are a fantastic summer treat that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup peach preserves
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, and cinnamon.
- Coat the drumsticks in the peach BBQ sauce and place them in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
These peach BBQ drumsticks are perfectly balanced with sweet and smoky flavors. They pair wonderfully with grilled corn on the cob or a fresh fruit salad, making them a great option for a summer BBQ.
Lime and Cilantro BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
For a refreshing, citrusy twist on traditional BBQ, these lime and cilantro drumsticks are vibrant and packed with flavor. The zesty lime and fragrant cilantro give the chicken a fresh, bright flavor, making it perfect for spring or summer meals.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, cumin, and black pepper.
- Coat the drumsticks with the lime-cilantro BBQ sauce and place them in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Garnish with additional fresh cilantro before serving.
These lime and cilantro BBQ drumsticks are light and full of zest, making them ideal for pairing with a refreshing cucumber salad or a light quinoa dish. It’s a perfect meal for a warm day!
Balsamic BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
This balsamic BBQ recipe offers a sophisticated twist on traditional BBQ chicken. The balsamic vinegar adds a deep, tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the smoky flavor of the barbecue sauce, making these drumsticks a real treat.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine barbecue sauce, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and black pepper.
- Coat the drumsticks with the balsamic BBQ sauce and place them in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Optional: Brush the drumsticks with extra sauce and broil for 5 minutes to enhance the glaze.
These balsamic BBQ drumsticks are rich and tangy, with a caramelized finish. Pair them with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Tropical BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
Bring the taste of the tropics to your dinner table with these tropical BBQ drumsticks. The sweetness of pineapple and coconut, along with the rich BBQ sauce, creates a flavorful fusion that’s perfect for a fun and vibrant meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, shredded coconut, honey, and ground ginger.
- Coat the drumsticks with the tropical BBQ sauce and place them in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Optional: Top with extra shredded coconut before serving.
These tropical BBQ drumsticks are sweet, savory, and just the right amount of exotic. Serve with rice or a fruit salad for a refreshing and tropical-inspired meal.
Coffee BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
For a deep, rich flavor, try these coffee BBQ drumsticks. The robust taste of coffee adds a surprising depth to the smoky barbecue sauce, creating a dish that is bold and uniquely flavorful.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup brewed coffee
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine barbecue sauce, brewed coffee, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and ground cinnamon.
- Pour the coffee BBQ sauce over the drumsticks in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Optional: For an extra flavor boost, brush the drumsticks with additional sauce and broil for a crispy finish.
These coffee BBQ drumsticks are perfect for those who enjoy bold, deep flavors. Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes or grilled corn for a satisfying meal.
Pomegranate BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
This recipe combines the sweet-tart flavor of pomegranate with smoky BBQ sauce, creating a unique and delicious dish. Pomegranate molasses adds a sophisticated layer of sweetness to the chicken, making this recipe perfect for a special dinner or holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, pomegranate molasses, honey, ground coriander, and black pepper.
- Coat the drumsticks with the pomegranate BBQ sauce and place them in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Optional: Garnish with pomegranate seeds and fresh mint before serving.
The pomegranate BBQ drumsticks are sweet and slightly tangy, with a depth of flavor that’s perfect for special occasions. Serve them with couscous or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Rosemary and Lemon BBQ Crockpot Drumsticks
These rosemary and lemon BBQ drumsticks are full of fresh, herbaceous flavors. The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic rosemary elevates the BBQ sauce, making for a bright, delicious dish that’s perfect for a spring or summer meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, and garlic powder.
- Coat the drumsticks with the rosemary lemon BBQ sauce and place them in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Optional: Garnish with additional rosemary before serving.
These rosemary and lemon BBQ drumsticks are refreshing and aromatic. They pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, grilled asparagus, or a light pasta salad.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!
