This slow cooker BBQ chicken legs recipe is a total winner! Juicy and tender chicken legs are coated in a tasty barbecue sauce, making them super delicious without a lot of fuss.
Who doesn’t love a hands-off dinner? I just pop the chicken in the slow cooker, add the sauce, and let it do its magic while I kick back and relax. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Legs: The star of the show! You can use all drumsticks, or mix in thighs for added flavor. If you prefer other cuts, chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster than legs.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your go-to BBQ sauce for flavor. Can’t find your favorite? Try a homemade version with ketchup, honey, vinegar, and spices. For a healthier option, use a low-sugar barbeque sauce.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a lovely depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can work too, though it’ll lack that smoky flavor. Similarly, any garlic or onion seasoning can substitute the powders if you’re in a pinch!
Olive Oil: This helps in browning which creates a nice crust. If you don’t have olive oil, any oil, like canola or vegetable oil, can also work well.
How Do I Achieve Tender and Juicy Chicken Legs?
The trick to tender chicken is low and slow cooking. The slow cooker works wonders here, but for added texture, browning the chicken first really enhances the flavor.
- Start by mixing the spices in a bowl and coating the chicken legs evenly. This infuses flavor directly into the meat.
- If you decide to brown the chicken, heat your skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat and cook each leg for about 2 minutes per side. This step locks in juices!
- Then, place the chicken in a slow cooker, pour BBQ sauce over the top, and cover it up. Cook on low for 6-7 hours for a tender result.
Enjoy your meal and the fantastic aroma filling your kitchen!
EASY Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 8 chicken legs (drumsticks and thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll let the slow cooker do its work! Plan for about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning mix will give your chicken legs a tasty kick!
2. Season the Chicken:
Rub the seasoning mix evenly over all the chicken legs. Make sure to coat each leg well for maximum flavor!
3. Brown the Chicken (Optional):
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken legs and brown them for about 2 minutes on each side. This step locks in the juices and adds a nice color, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
4. Load the Slow Cooker:
Place the browned chicken legs into the slow cooker. Don’t worry if they’re crowded; they’ll shrink a bit while cooking!
5. Add the BBQ Sauce:
Pour the barbecue sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. This adds delicious flavor and moisture to your dish.
6. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and easily pulls away from the bone!
7. Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Spoon some extra sauce over the top for added flavor.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish the chicken legs with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious BBQ chicken!
This recipe yields tender, flavorful BBQ chicken legs with minimal effort thanks to the slow cooker. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Legs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken legs, but it’s essential to thaw them completely before cooking. The safest way to do this is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or using the cold water method: put them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water until thawed.
What If I Don’t Have Barbecue Sauce?
No worries! You can quickly whip up a simple homemade BBQ sauce using ketchup, honey, vinegar, and your favorite spices. Mix equal parts of ketchup and vinegar, add honey to taste, and season with spices like chili powder, garlic powder, and mustard for a delicious alternative.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and apply the seasoning the night before and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just pop it in the slow cooker with the BBQ sauce and let it cook throughout the day.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in a skillet, adding a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to keep it moist.