Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Drumsticks Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Slow Cooker Drumsticks recipe offers tender, flavorful chicken cooked to perfection with a sweet and tangy maple mustard sauce. Prepared easily in a slow cooker, this dish requires minimal effort and is perfect for a comforting American main course. Optional broiling adds a caramelized, sticky finish to enhance both texture and presentation.

  • Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings (1 drumstick per person)

Ingredients

Chicken Drumsticks

  • 8 chicken drumsticks
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Sauce

  • ½ cup pure maple syrup
  • ¼ cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken drumsticks in the slow cooker. Season them evenly with salt, pepper, and onion powder to enhance their natural flavor and ensure balanced seasoning during cooking.
  2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic until the sauce is smooth and well combined. This mixture will provide a sweet, tangy, and aromatic glaze for the chicken.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the drumsticks in the slow cooker. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 5 to 6 hours, or alternatively on high heat for 3 to 4 hours. Cook until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safely cooked through.
  4. Optional Broiling: For a caramelized, sticky finish and richer color, transfer the cooked drumsticks to a baking sheet. Place them under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes while watching closely to prevent burning and achieve a perfect glossy glaze.
  5. Serve: Spoon the reserved sauce from the slow cooker over the drumsticks before serving to maximize flavor and juiciness. Enjoy your flavorful and tender slow-cooked chicken drumsticks!

Notes

  • Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked.
  • Broiling is optional but recommended for added texture and flavor.
  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; minced from fresh cloves is ideal.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce it on the stove after removing the chicken from the slow cooker.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the chicken’s moisture and flavor.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American