Crockpot Garlic Scallion Hickory BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Welcome to your new favorite dump-and-go Crockpot meal! This Crockpot Garlic Scallion Hickory BBQ Chicken Drumsticks recipe is a family favorite that's perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can have a comforting, flavorful dinner ready in no time. The best part? The chicken turns out tender, juicy, and completely fall-off-the-bone, infused with the rich, smoky flavors of hickory BBQ sauce, garlic, and scallions. It's an absolute crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love!

So, why spend hours slaving over the stove when you can have a delicious, hearty meal ready with just a few minutes of prep? This Crockpot recipe is not only easy but also budget-friendly and perfect for meal prepping. Let's dive in and explore why this dish is a must-try for your family!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This recipe requires just five minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and tender: The chicken drumsticks turn out incredibly tender and juicy, with a rich, smoky hickory BBQ flavor.
• Budget-friendly: Chicken drumsticks are an affordable protein option, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples.
• Great for meal prepping: This dish can be easily reheated for lunches throughout the week.

Key Ingredients & Flavor Notes

The star of this dish is, of course, the chicken drumsticks. They are cooked low and slow in the Crockpot, resulting in tender, fall-off-the-bone meat. The whole garlic cloves and sliced scallions infuse the chicken with a delicate garlic and onion flavor, while the hickory BBQ sauce adds a rich, smoky sweetness. The combination of these ingredients creates a mouthwatering, comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Chef’s Tips for Foolproof Slow Cooking

To ensure the best results, cook the chicken on LOW for 6-8 hours. This allows the meat to become tender and infused with flavor. If you're short on time, you can cook it on HIGH for 4-5 hours, but keep in mind that the texture may not be as tender. Additionally, resist the temptation to open the lid during cooking, as this can release heat and moisture, affecting the cooking time.

Ingredients

• 8 meaty chicken drumsticks
• 12 whole garlic cloves, peeled
• 4 scallions, sliced
• 1 1/2 cups hickory BBQ sauce (or your favorite BBQ sauce)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place the chicken drumsticks in the Crockpot, arranging them in a circle.
2. Scatter the garlic cloves and sliced scallions evenly over the chicken.
3. Pour the hickory BBQ sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is tender and falling off the bone.
5. Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the chicken drumsticks from the Crockpot and place them on a serving platter. Spoon some of the sauce from the Crockpot over the chicken.
6. Serve the chicken drumsticks hot, with steamed jasmine rice, garlic bread, or your favorite sides.

What to Serve With It & Storage Tips

This Crockpot Garlic Scallion Hickory BBQ Chicken Drumsticks pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice, garlic bread, or even a simple green salad. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question?

Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks. The cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks.

Question?

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or onions, to the Crockpot. They will cook alongside the chicken and absorb the delicious flavors of the BBQ sauce.

Question?

Can I use a different type of BBQ sauce?

Yes, you can use your favorite BBQ sauce in this recipe. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may vary slightly depending on the type of sauce you choose.