Aside from their mouth-watering taste, slow cooker drumsticks offer several health benefits. Chicken drumsticks are a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The use of a slow cooker also means that the chicken retains its moisture without the need for excessive oils or fats, making it a healthier cooking method. Additionally, the spices used in the recipe, like paprika and garlic powder, are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Ingredients:
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
2 teaspoons granulated garlic powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
3 pounds chicken drumsticks
1 ½ cups BBQ sauce
Instructions:
Mix together the paprika, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl.
Place the chicken drumsticks in a 6-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle with the spice mixture and toss to coat.
Pour over ½ cups of bbq sauce and smooth to cover the tops of the chicken legs.
Cover and cook on high for 2-4 hours or low for 4-6, or until the chicken is cooked through and very tender.
FOR CRISPY SKIN:
Carefully remove to a foil lined broiler safe pan. Discard the remaining cooking liquid, or strain and reserve for another use.
Brush all sides of the chicken legs with remaining 1 cup bbq sauce, then broil on high for 2-4 minutes, flip, then broil an additional 2 minutes or until just starting to crisp, watching it carefully to avoid burning. *Trust me, don’t walk away or the chicken will burn.
Notes:
Sugar content and nutritional information will depend on the specific BBQ sauce used.
For paleo and refined sugar free version, be sure to look for a barbecue sauce with paleo friendly ingredients.
Enjoy!
