When you need a low-effort, high-reward dinner that pleases everyone at the table, Slow Cooker Sticky Chicken Drumsticks deliver every time. These tender, fall-off-the-bone drumsticks are glazed in a sweet, savory sauce made with honey, soy sauce, and just the right blend of spices.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or feeding a crowd, this easy slow cooker recipe is guaranteed to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Bonus: The slow cooker does most of the work, and you’ll only need a few pantry staples to make it happen.
Why You’ll Love These Sticky Drumsticks
- Hands-off Cooking: Let your slow cooker take care of dinner while you do other things.
- Kid-Friendly: Sweet and sticky is always a hit with kids!
- Budget-Friendly: Drumsticks are one of the most affordable cuts of chicken.
- Customizable: Add heat, make it gluten-free, or give it an Asian fusion twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this finger-lickin’ good dish:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- ½ cup honey – for that perfect sticky sweetness
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce – adds rich umami flavor
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – helps the sauce cling and keeps chicken moist
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – for tang and balance
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic – aromatic flavor boost
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – adds depth and subtle smokiness
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Pro Tip: Always go for skin-on drumsticks for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Honey
- Soy sauce
- Olive oil
- Apple cider vinegar
- Minced garlic
- Onion powder
- Smoked paprika
- Black pepper
Whisk until everything is fully combined and smooth.
- Arrange the Chicken
Place the drumsticks in a single layer at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Pour the Sauce
Pour your prepared sauce evenly over the drumsticks. Use a spoon to make sure each drumstick is well coated.
- Cook Low & Slow
Cover and cook:
- On LOW for 5–6 hours
- Or HIGH for 3–4 hours
The chicken should be fully cooked, tender, and infused with flavor.
- Broil for Crispiness (Optional)
To get caramelized skin, transfer cooked drumsticks to a baking sheet, brush with leftover sauce, and broil for 3–4 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning!
- Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.
Expert Tips for Perfect Drumsticks
Use Skin-On Chicken: The skin protects the meat and keeps it juicy.
Thicker Sauce Hack: To thicken sauce, transfer it to a saucepan, simmer, and add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).
Spice it up with a hint of ground ginger or a touch of red pepper flakes to elevate the flavor.
No Slow Cooker? Use a Dutch oven at 300°F in the oven for 2.5–3 hours.
Variations & Substitutions
Spicy Kick: Add sriracha, chili paste, or cayenne.
Asian-Inspired: Toss in grated ginger, sesame oil, or hoisin sauce.
Need it Gluten-Free: You may use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Make it a Meal: Add baby carrots or halved potatoes into the slow cooker.
What to Serve with Sticky Chicken Drumsticks
These sticky drumsticks pair beautifully with:
- Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice
- Mashed potatoes
- Garlic butter noodles
- Roasted broccoli or carrots
- A crisp garden salad
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storage:
To store leftovers use an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 or 4 days.
Reheat:
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts until warm.
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Crisp them back up at 375°F for 5–7 minutes.
Make-ahead tip: The sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving – Est. for 1 drumstick)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 17g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Carbs | 12g |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Sodium | 420mg |
Values are approximate and will vary by brand and portion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen drumsticks in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken drumsticks, but for best results, it’s recommended to thaw them completely before slow cooking. Starting with frozen meat can lead to uneven cooking and poses food safety risks, especially if the internal temperature doesn’t rise fast enough. Thawed chicken also absorbs the sticky sauce better, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy outcome.
Tip: Thaw drumsticks overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
- What’s the best way to thicken the sauce for sticky chicken drumsticks?
To achieve that glossy, sticky texture, you can thicken the sauce after cooking. Simply pour the remaining sauce into a saucepan and simmer it over medium heat. Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and cook until the sauce thickens and clings to a spoon.
Pro Tip: Let the thickened sauce cool for a few minutes before brushing it over the drumsticks for a better glaze.
- Can I make Slow Cooker Sticky Chicken Drumsticks in an Instant Pot?
Yes, this recipe adapts well to the Instant Pot! Use the sauté function to sear the drumsticks first (optional but adds flavor), then pour in the sauce. Cook on Manual/Pressure Cook for 10 minutes with a natural pressure release for best texture. To thicken the sauce, use the sauté function post-cooking and follow the same thickening instructions as above.
This method is perfect if you’re short on time but still want tender, flavorful chicken.
- Are these sticky chicken drumsticks gluten-free?
Not by default, since soy sauce typically contains wheat, but it’s easy to make this recipe 100% gluten-free. Just replace the soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Always check your other ingredients (especially vinegar and spices) to make sure they’re labeled gluten-free.
Always read labels carefully if you’re cooking for someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
- How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover Slow Cooker Sticky Chicken Drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat:
- Microwave: 1–2 minutes per piece (covered, with a splash of sauce or water to keep it moist).
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
- Air Fryer: Crisp the skin by reheating at 375°F for 5–7 minutes.
Freezer-friendly tip: You can freeze cooked drumsticks for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- What can I serve with sticky chicken drumsticks?
These flavorful drumsticks pair perfectly with:
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Roasted or stir-fried vegetables
- A crisp cucumber salad
- Dinner rolls or flatbreads
You can also serve them with coleslaw or corn on the cob for a summer BBQ vibe.
Want to keep it low-carb? Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Can I use other cuts of chicken besides drumsticks?
Absolutely! This sticky sauce works beautifully with chicken thighs, legs, or even wings. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will cook a little faster and soak up tons of flavor. Just adjust the cooking time:
- Boneless thighs: 2.5–3.5 hours on LOW
- Chicken wings: 2–3 hours on HIGH
- Bone-in thighs or legs: same as drumsticks
Be sure to check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- How do I make this recipe spicier?
If you like a little heat with your sweet, add:
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- 1 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste) for a flavorful kick
Adjust the spice level to your preference. Start small—you can always add more heat at the end.
- Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for doubling—especially for parties, meal prep, or family gatherings. Just make sure:
- Your slow cooker has enough space to fit all drumsticks in layers.
- You rotate the drumsticks halfway through cooking to ensure even coating and cooking.
- You double the sauce to keep everything juicy and flavorful.
Leftovers reheat well and make great lunches the next day.
7 Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Sticky Chicken Drumsticks
1. Pat the Drumsticks Dry Before Cooking
Moisture on the skin can dilute the sauce and affect texture. Use a paper towel to pat your drumsticks dry before placing them in the slow cooker. This helps the glaze stick better and enhances the overall flavor.
2. Use Skin-On Chicken for Maximum Flavor
While skinless drumsticks are an option, skin-on drumsticks hold moisture better and absorb the sticky glaze beautifully during slow cooking. They also crisp up nicely under the broiler if you choose to finish them in the oven.
3. Layer the Sauce Strategically
Don’t just dump the sauce on top. Pour half of it under the chicken and the rest over the top. This ensures even coating and allows the flavors to infuse the meat from all angles during cooking.
4. Go Low and Slow for Juicier Results
If time allows, always choose the low setting on your slow cooker (5–6 hours). It gives the chicken time to break down slowly, making the meat more tender and helping the flavors develop fully.
5. Broil at the End for a Sticky Finish
For that glossy, caramelized finish, place the drumsticks on a baking sheet after slow cooking, brush with extra sauce, and broil for 3–5 minutes.
6. Thicken the Sauce with Cornstarch Slurry
Want a thicker glaze that clings to each bite? After cooking, transfer the remaining sauce to a saucepan, bring it to a simmer, and stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water). Let it reduce until glossy and thick.
7. Make It Your Own with Flavor Add-Ins
This recipe is a fantastic base; feel free to experiment! Add a teaspoon of grated ginger for a warm bite, chili flakes for heat, or a splash of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist. Customizing it lets you create a signature version your family will crave.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply comforting about a meal that comes together effortlessly yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. That’s exactly what makes these Slow Cooker Sticky Chicken Drumsticks a true weeknight hero. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll be rewarded with fall-off-the-bone tender chicken glazed in a rich, sweet-and-savory sauce that’s sticky in all the best ways.
Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a hassle-free dinner, a beginner cook testing the waters, or a meal prepper wanting bold flavors without the fuss, this recipe checks all the boxes. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, giving you the gift of time while still delivering on flavor.
Even better? This dish is budget-friendly, kid-approved, and endlessly versatile. Serve it with rice for a quick dinner, tuck leftovers into wraps for lunch, or pair it with roasted veggies for a low-carb option. The possibilities are endless—just like the compliments you’ll get when you serve this at the table.
Pro tip: Save this recipe to your favorites and double the batch next time, you’ll thank yourself later.
