Crock Pot Chicken Legs

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There’s something deeply comforting about coming home to a warm, savory dinner that’s been slowly simmering all day. These Crock Pot Chicken Legs are just that kind of comfort food—tender, juicy drumsticks coated in rich seasoning and cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. This is the kind of weeknight dinner you can count on to be easy, family-friendly, and incredibly flavorful.

Whether you’re looking to save time, stretch your budget, or simply want to enjoy a meal that feels like it took hours of attention (without actually giving it any), this recipe delivers. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, you get a hands-off main dish that fills the kitchen with savory aromas and plates with falling-off-the-bone goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Chicken Legs Recipe

This recipe checks all the boxes: it’s budget-friendly, ridiculously easy to prep, and guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults. The slow cooker does all the hard work, making the chicken moist and juicy while allowing the spices and sauce to soak deep into every bite. It’s also versatile enough to pair with countless sides—from mashed potatoes to roasted veggies or classic coleslaw.

Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping or busy days when you want dinner ready the moment you walk in the door. You can make it sweet, spicy, smoky, or tangy depending on the seasonings and sauces you choose.

What Kind of Chicken Legs Should I Use?

This recipe uses classic drumsticks, but feel free to mix in thighs if you prefer a bit more dark meat richness. Make sure the skin is left on for that added flavor and moisture retention. Bone-in chicken is essential here because it adds depth of flavor and holds up well in the long, slow cooking process. Fresh or frozen chicken legs can be used—if using frozen, just be sure to thaw them first.

Ingredients for the Crock Pot Chicken Legs

Chicken legs may be the star, but each ingredient in this recipe adds its own bit of magic. A few simple ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering glaze that clings to each bite of chicken.

• Chicken legs
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Barbecue sauce
• Honey

The chicken legs are the base and soak up the flavors during the slow cooking. Paprika adds a warm, smoky undertone. Garlic powder and onion powder infuse savory depth, while salt and black pepper round out the seasoning. A generous slathering of barbecue sauce brings the sweet-smoky richness, and a drizzle of honey enhances it with just a touch of sticky sweetness.

How To Make the Crock Pot Chicken Legs

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken legs, coating them evenly.

Step 2: Add to Crock Pot

Place the seasoned chicken legs in the crock pot. Arrange them in a single layer if possible, or stack them slightly if needed.

Step 3: Add Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix barbecue sauce with honey. Pour the mixture over the chicken legs, ensuring each piece is coated.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for about 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked through.

Step 5: Optional Broil for Crisp

For extra flavor and a slightly crispy skin, transfer the cooked legs to a baking sheet, brush with additional sauce, and broil in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes.

Serving and Storing Crock Pot Chicken Legs

This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. Serve the chicken legs hot from the slow cooker, drizzled with any extra sauce left at the bottom. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What to Serve With Crock Pot Chicken Legs?

Classic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the sweet and savory juices from the chicken.

Cornbread

A slice of warm, buttery cornbread adds a touch of comfort to round out the meal.

Coleslaw

Crunchy and tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, slow-cooked chicken.

Roasted Vegetables

A mix of roasted carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers pairs beautifully with the smoky flavors.

Mac and Cheese

The ultimate comfort food combo—cheesy, creamy pasta with tender chicken.

Green Beans Almondine

Light, crispy green beans tossed with toasted almonds for a slightly elegant touch.

Rice Pilaf

Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs makes a great base to soak up the sauce.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cool, juicy, and lightly dressed—this salad balances out the heartiness of the dish.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love these Crock Pot Chicken Legs, you’ll definitely want to check out these other hearty dishes from Mia Plates:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up or keep it classic? Did you pair it with mashed potatoes or maybe something unexpected?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better.

Explore beautifully curated comfort meals and simple family dinners on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feel-good food!

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