31+ Healthy and Tasty Crockpot Chicken Drumstick Recipes to Savor

Crockpot meals are the perfect solution for busy days when you want a delicious meal without the hassle.

When it comes to chicken, drumsticks are an affordable, versatile, and flavorful option that works wonders in the slow cooker.

That’s why we’ve put together a collection of 31+ crockpot chicken drumstick recipes to make your meal planning easier.

These recipes cover a wide range of flavors, from sweet and tangy to smoky and spicy, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or something special for a gathering, these recipes will not disappoint.

Get ready to enjoy tender, juicy chicken drumsticks with minimal effort.

Let’s dive into these 31+ crockpot chicken drumstick recipes that will elevate your cooking game!

31+ Healthy and Tasty Crockpot Chicken Drumstick Recipes to Savor

Incorporating crockpot chicken drumsticks into your meal planning brings a combination of convenience and flavor.

These recipes are perfect for anyone seeking an easy, no-fuss way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken.

From savory garlic butter to sweet chili, there’s a recipe to satisfy every craving.

By using the slow cooker, you can free up time to focus on other tasks while your meal cooks to perfection.

So go ahead and try one of these 31+ crockpot chicken drumstick recipes to enjoy mouthwatering, hands-off meals that your whole family will love.

Honey Garlic Glazed Drumsticks

Juicy, tender chicken drumsticks coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze make this dish a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. The slow cooker does all the work, ensuring the chicken is fall-off-the-bone delicious.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp water

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken drumsticks in the crockpot.
2. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, ketchup, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Pour over the drumsticks.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
4. Once cooked, transfer the drumsticks to a baking sheet.
5. Pour the remaining sauce into a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir into the sauce until thickened.
6. Brush the glaze over the drumsticks and broil in the oven for 3–5 minutes for a caramelized finish.

The honey garlic glaze enhances the natural flavor of the drumsticks, creating a mouthwatering balance of sweet and tangy. Serve with rice or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Spicy BBQ Drumsticks

This slow-cooked spicy BBQ drumstick recipe delivers bold, smoky flavors with a kick of heat. It’s a no-fuss recipe that’s perfect for game day or a backyard picnic.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp hot sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the drumsticks with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot.
3. Mix the BBQ sauce and hot sauce together, then pour over the drumsticks.
4. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
5. For a smoky caramelized finish, broil the drumsticks for 3–5 minutes after removing them from the crockpot.

The smoky spices combined with the tangy BBQ sauce create an irresistible dish that’s both spicy and savory. Pair with coleslaw and cornbread for a Southern-inspired meal.

Lemon Herb Chicken Drumsticks

Infused with zesty lemon and fresh herbs, this recipe is light, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s ideal for those seeking a healthier, yet delicious, crockpot meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Combine lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
2. Rub the mixture over the drumsticks.
3. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and pour the chicken broth around them.
4. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
5. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon slices before serving.

This bright and aromatic dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. It’s a refreshing twist on traditional crockpot chicken recipes, making it a must-try for any occasion.

Teriyaki Drumsticks

Deliciously sweet and savory, these Teriyaki drumsticks are slow-cooked to perfection. The rich teriyaki glaze coats each piece of chicken, creating a tender, flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy. It’s a simple recipe that will satisfy any craving for Asian-inspired cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water
• Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and pour the sauce over them.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
4. Once the chicken is done, remove the drumsticks from the crockpot and set aside.
5. Pour the sauce into a saucepan and bring to a boil. Mix the cornstarch with water, then whisk into the sauce to thicken.
6. Pour the thickened sauce over the drumsticks and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

The Teriyaki glaze gives the chicken a rich, savory flavor with just the right amount of sweetness. Serve over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

Cajun-Spiced Drumsticks

Spicy, smoky, and full of flavor, these Cajun-spiced drumsticks are perfect for those who enjoy bold and zesty dishes. The slow cooker ensures the chicken remains juicy while the spice blend adds a delightful kick.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Mix Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
2. Rub the seasoning mixture over the drumsticks, ensuring they’re well-coated.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the drumsticks for about 2 minutes per side.
4. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

The Cajun spice blend provides a fiery, smoky flavor that complements the juicy, tender chicken. Pair with mashed potatoes or a side of corn on the cob for a true Southern-style feast.

Mediterranean Drumsticks

Infused with the bright, bold flavors of the Mediterranean, this recipe combines zesty lemon, olives, and fresh herbs to create a fragrant and delicious dish. These Mediterranean drumsticks are perfect for a healthy, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1 lemon, juiced and sliced
• 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp oregano
• 1 tbsp garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rub the chicken drumsticks with olive oil, oregano, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and scatter the lemon slices and olives around the chicken.
3. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

The combination of lemon, olives, and aromatic herbs makes for a flavorful dish that’s both light and filling. Pair with couscous or a fresh Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Buffalo Drumsticks

For those who love a little heat, these Buffalo drumsticks are a perfect choice. Coated in spicy buffalo sauce and cooked slowly, these drumsticks are tender, spicy, and irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing (optional)
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the drumsticks with salt and pepper.
2. In a bowl, mix the buffalo sauce and melted butter.
3. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and pour the buffalo sauce over them.
4. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
5. If desired, drizzle with ranch dressing before serving.

The bold, spicy buffalo sauce gives these drumsticks a kick that’s perfect for a game day or casual dinner. Serve with celery and blue cheese dressing to complete the Buffalo-style experience.

Sweet and Sour Drumsticks

A tangy, sweet combination that’s sure to please, these sweet and sour drumsticks are bursting with flavor. The slow cooking ensures the chicken is perfectly tender while the sweet and tangy sauce caramelizes beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and pour the sweet and sour sauce over them.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

The combination of sweet and sour flavors creates a savory, tangy dish that pairs well with rice or steamed vegetables. These drumsticks are perfect for a flavorful dinner with a touch of sweetness.

BBQ Ranch Drumsticks

The fusion of tangy BBQ sauce and creamy ranch dressing results in a mouthwatering combination that makes these drumsticks irresistible. Easy to make and full of flavor, this recipe is a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the drumsticks with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then place the drumsticks in the crockpot.
3. Mix BBQ sauce and ranch dressing in a bowl and pour over the chicken.
4. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

The creamy ranch dressing and smoky BBQ sauce create a unique, flavorful glaze for the drumsticks. Serve with a side of crispy fries or a green salad for a simple yet satisfying meal.

Italian Herb Drumsticks

With the bold flavors of Italian herbs, garlic, and olive oil, these Italian herb drumsticks bring the taste of Italy right into your home. The slow cooking method ensures the chicken is juicy and tender, while the herbs infuse it with rich, savory flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp dried basil
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rub the drumsticks with olive oil, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the seasoned drumsticks in the crockpot.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

These Italian herb drumsticks are full of flavor, with the perfect balance of savory spices. Pair them with roasted potatoes or pasta for an easy, comforting dinner that will transport you to the heart of Italy.

Pineapple Teriyaki Drumsticks

For a tropical twist on a classic, these Pineapple Teriyaki drumsticks are a delicious fusion of sweet pineapple and tangy teriyaki sauce. The crockpot ensures the chicken stays moist and flavorful while the sauce becomes rich and caramelized.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Combine teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, crushed pineapple, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a bowl.
2. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and pour the sauce over them.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
4. If the sauce needs thickening, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the sauce, cooking on high for an additional 30 minutes.

The sweet and tangy pineapple adds a tropical flair to the savory teriyaki sauce, making these drumsticks a hit at any gathering. Serve with steamed rice or a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Balsamic Glazed Drumsticks

This recipe features a rich balsamic glaze that beautifully complements the juicy, tender chicken. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld together, creating a sophisticated yet easy-to-make dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and pour the balsamic mixture over them.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
4. For extra caramelization, broil the drumsticks for 2–3 minutes after removing them from the crockpot.

The balsamic glaze adds a tangy, slightly sweet finish to the drumsticks, making them irresistible. Serve with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a delicious and elegant meal.

Mango Chili Drumsticks

These Mango Chili drumsticks are bursting with tropical sweetness and spicy heat, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The crockpot makes it easy to achieve tender chicken with an irresistible glaze.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1 ripe mango, peeled and pureed
• 1/4 cup chili sauce
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Blend the mango into a puree. In a bowl, mix the mango puree, chili sauce, lime juice, honey, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and pour the mango chili sauce over them.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

The sweetness of the mango combined with the spice from the chili sauce creates a delightful contrast in this dish. Serve with rice or a side of grilled vegetables for a flavorful meal.

Apple Cider Glazed Drumsticks

Sweet, tangy, and savory, these Apple Cider Glazed drumsticks are a fall-inspired dish that brings together the comforting flavors of apple cider, cinnamon, and rosemary. The slow cooking method ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked, while the glaze adds a rich, seasonal flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup apple cider
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together apple cider, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and pour the glaze over them.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

The apple cider glaze creates a lovely sweetness that perfectly balances the savory chicken. Serve with mashed sweet potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts for a delicious, seasonal meal.

Greek Yogurt Marinated Drumsticks

For a healthier twist, these Greek Yogurt Marinated drumsticks are infused with tangy yogurt, lemon, and fresh herbs. The marinade not only enhances the flavor but also helps keep the chicken juicy and tender.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the drumsticks with the marinade and let them sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Place the marinated drumsticks in the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

The yogurt marinade provides a creamy, tangy flavor that tenderizes the chicken beautifully. Serve with a cucumber salad or roasted vegetables for a light and flavorful meal.

Lemon Garlic Butter Drumsticks

These Lemon Garlic Butter drumsticks are a simple yet decadent dish, featuring juicy chicken coated in a rich garlic butter sauce with a refreshing hint of lemon. The slow cooker ensures the chicken is fall-off-the-bone tender, while the lemon and garlic add bold, aromatic flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp dried thyme

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Coat the chicken drumsticks with the butter mixture, making sure they’re fully covered.
3. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

The rich garlic butter sauce infuses the chicken with incredible flavor while the lemon adds a fresh, tangy note. Serve with roasted potatoes or a side salad for a light and indulgent meal.

Maple Dijon Drumsticks

Sweet and tangy, these Maple Dijon drumsticks are a perfect balance of flavors. The maple syrup adds sweetness, while the Dijon mustard gives the sauce a zesty kick. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is sure to impress with its delicious combination.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the drumsticks in the maple Dijon sauce.
3. Place the chicken in the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

The combination of maple and Dijon creates a flavorful glaze that caramelizes as the drumsticks cook, making for a sweet, tangy, and savory meal. Serve with roasted carrots or a grain of your choice for a complete meal.

Smoky Paprika Drumsticks

These Smoky Paprika drumsticks are packed with deep, smoky flavors and a bit of spice. The smoky paprika combined with a touch of garlic and onion creates a rub that infuses the chicken with rich flavors, making this an irresistible dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the seasoning mixture over the chicken drumsticks.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the drumsticks for about 2 minutes per side.
4. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

The smoky flavor from the paprika and the added kick of cayenne pepper make these drumsticks bold and flavorful. Pair with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a savory, satisfying meal.

Sweet Chili Drumsticks

These Sweet Chili drumsticks bring a delightful balance of sweet and spicy, with a flavorful glaze that makes the chicken irresistible. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken is tender, while the sauce becomes rich and sticky.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tsp ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, rice vinegar, ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and pour the sauce over them.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
4. For a glossy finish, remove the drumsticks and simmer the sauce in a saucepan until it thickens, then pour it over the chicken.

The sweet chili sauce gives these drumsticks a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. Serve with jasmine rice or a vegetable stir-fry to complete this flavorful meal.

Pesto Parmesan Drumsticks

These Pesto Parmesan drumsticks are full of vibrant flavor from the basil pesto, complemented by the richness of Parmesan cheese. Slow-cooked to juicy perfection, this dish is a delightful twist on traditional chicken.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the pesto, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the chicken drumsticks with the pesto mixture.
3. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

The pesto and Parmesan bring a burst of flavor to the drumsticks, making them a savory, herbaceous delight. Serve with pasta or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Garlic Parmesan Ranch Drumsticks

A winning combination of garlic, Parmesan, and ranch seasoning creates a flavorful crust on these drumsticks, making them rich, creamy, and absolutely delicious. The crockpot ensures they stay tender and juicy while the seasoning soaks into every bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 packet ranch dressing mix
• 2 tbsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the chicken drumsticks with the seasoning mixture.
3. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and ranch seasoning makes this dish incredibly flavorful, while the slow cooking ensures the chicken is tender and juicy. Pair with a side of mashed potatoes or green beans for a comforting dinner.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!