Name: Slow Cooker Braised Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks; 1 large onion, sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup chicken stock; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

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If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, then my Slow Cooker Braised Chicken Drumsticks Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine succulent chicken drumsticks, slowly simmered in a deeply flavorful, savory sauce until they are fall-off-the-bone tender and infused with aromatic herbs and spices. This dish comes together with such ease and little fuss, making it the ultimate comfort food that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and your heart with cozy satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows five raw chicken drumsticks arranged in a row on a light brown wooden board with a handle at the top. Above the board, there is a small white bowl filled with dark reddish dried chili peppers. Around the board, three small white bowls hold different spices: one with white granules, one with red chili flakes, and one with ground black pepper. To the right, a wooden spoon with a white handle carries dark red chili powder. All items are placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients in this Slow Cooker Braised Chicken Drumsticks Recipe are simple yet so essential for building its rich layers of flavor and giving the dish a gorgeous color and irresistible aroma. Each component brings something magical to the table, from the hearty chicken drumsticks to the fragrant herbs and umami-packed sauce.

Chicken drumsticks: The star of the show, bringing tender, juicy meat that shines with slow braising.
Onion, sliced: Adds natural sweetness and a soft texture as it cooks down beautifully in the sauce.
Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic enriches the sauce with its garlic warmth and depth.
Chicken stock: Creates a savory base for the sauce, enhancing the chicken’s natural flavors.
Tomato paste: Gives a rich, concentrated tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
Soy sauce: Adds a salty umami boost that deepens the overall flavor profile.
Paprika: Infuses a mild smoky sweetness and a beautiful reddish hue.
Dried thyme: An earthy, herbal note that pairs perfectly with chicken.
Bay leaf: Subtle floral and herbal undertones that elevate the braise.
Olive oil: For browning the chicken to lock in flavor and add richness.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all ingredients.

How to Make Slow Cooker Braised Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Chicken Drumsticks

Start by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Lightly brown the chicken drumsticks on all sides. This step seals in their juices and adds a delicious caramelized flavor that makes the final dish so much tastier.

Step 2: Layer Onions and Garlic

Transfer the browned chicken into your slow cooker. Scatter sliced onions and whole garlic cloves on top and around the chicken. These will slowly soften and melt into the sauce, infusing it with sweetness and aroma.

Step 3: Prepare the Braising Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the chicken stock, tomato paste, soy sauce, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined. This sauce mixture forms the heart of the braise, balancing savory and tangy flavors with a hint of smokiness.

Step 4: Combine and Cook

Pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies in the slow cooker. Tuck in the bay leaf for that subtle depth. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is fall-off-the-bone tender.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the bay leaf. You can thicken the sauce by simmering it on the stovetop if you prefer a thicker consistency. Serve these tender drumsticks over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice for a meal that feels like a true treat.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Braised Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Slow Cooker Braised Chicken Drumsticks Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme make a lovely bright garnish that complements the rich sauce and adds a refreshing pop of color. A light sprinkle of red pepper flakes can bring in a little extra warmth if you want some spice.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up the luscious sauce, or fluffy white rice that balances the powerful flavors. For a lighter side, try steamed green beans or roasted seasonal vegetables for texture and color contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, arrange the drumsticks on a large serving platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for brightness. You could also shred the meat for sandwiches or tacos the next day to enjoy the versatility of this Slow Cooker Braised Chicken Drumsticks Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken and sauce keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making each bite even more satisfying the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion out the drumsticks and sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. It’s a fantastic way to meal prep or have ready-made comfort food on busy nights.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or stock if needed to loosen the sauce. Reheating slowly helps the meat stay tender and moist.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While drumsticks are perfect for their flavor and texture, chicken thighs or even bone-in breasts can be used. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure tenderness.

Is it necessary to brown the chicken before slow cooking?

Browning the chicken is highly recommended as it locks in juices and boosts flavor, giving the dish that beautiful deeper color and savory caramelized notes.

Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?

If you’re avoiding soy, you can substitute tamari for gluten-free or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor. The sauce will still have plenty of depth and richness.

How thick should the sauce be when serving?

That depends on your preference! The sauce will be rich but slightly thin from the slow cooking, so you can simmer it on the stove to reduce and thicken as you like before serving.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes! Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips work well and will soak up the flavors beautifully. Add them at the start for a one-pot dinner that’s even heartier.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Braised Chicken Drumsticks Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites because it’s the perfect combination of simplicity and incredible flavor. The tender chicken, savory sauce, and effortless cooking process make it a genuine crowd-pleaser any day of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and savor every comforting, juicy bite!