When I need a dinner that’s effortless but packed with bold, sticky-sweet flavor, I turn to these Slow Cooker Sweet Baby Ray’s Chicken Drumsticks. This recipe is about as easy as it gets — just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. What comes out hours later is tender, juicy chicken coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly smoky sauce that’s absolutely irresistible.
Whether I’m feeding a hungry family, prepping for a backyard BBQ, or just want a set-it-and-forget-it dinner, these drumsticks never fail. They’re saucy, fall-off-the-bone delicious, and perfect served with simple sides or straight off the platter for a casual finger food feast.
Here’s how I make these crowd-pleasing chicken drumsticks that always have everyone reaching for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only a handful of ingredients — most of which you probably already have
- Juicy, tender chicken with sticky-sweet BBQ flavor
- Perfect for busy days — the slow cooker does all the work
- Great for family dinners, parties, or game day spreads
- Customizable heat level — make it mild or spicy
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 2 cups Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce (or your favorite BBQ sauce)
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
How I Make Slow Cooker Sweet Baby Ray’s Chicken Drumsticks
1. Prep the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, I whisk together the Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. If I’m feeling bold, I toss in some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
2. Add the Chicken
I place the chicken drumsticks in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over the top, making sure every drumstick is well coated in that sweet, tangy goodness.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection
I cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fall-apart tender and easily pulls from the bone.
4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional but Recommended)
Once cooked, if I want a thicker, stickier sauce, I transfer the chicken to a platter and pour the sauce into a small saucepan. I simmer it for about 5-7 minutes until it reduces and thickens, then pour it back over the chicken or serve it on the side.
5. Broil for Crispy Edges (Optional)
If I want a little char and caramelization, I place the drumsticks on a foil-lined baking sheet and broil them for 3-4 minutes until the edges are crispy and sticky.
6. Serve and Enjoy
I plate the drumsticks with a drizzle of extra sauce and usually serve them with cornbread, coleslaw, or buttery mashed potatoes.
Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
- Use skin-on drumsticks for the juiciest flavor, but skinless works if you prefer leaner meat.
- Broil after slow cooking for that irresistible sticky finish.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tang if your BBQ sauce is very sweet.
- Swap drumsticks for chicken thighs or wings — it all works!
- Double the sauce if you like your chicken extra saucy for dipping.
What to Serve with Sweet Baby Ray’s Chicken Drumsticks
- Cornbread or dinner rolls to soak up the sauce
- Coleslaw or a crisp garden salad for freshness
- Baked beans or mac and cheese for classic BBQ sides
- Roasted potatoes or sweet potato fries
- Pickles or sliced jalapeños for a tangy contrast
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen drumsticks?
A: Yes! Just make sure to add an extra hour or so of cooking time and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Q: Can I make this in the oven instead?
A: Definitely! Bake the drumsticks in a baking dish at 375°F for about 45 minutes, basting with sauce halfway through.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chicken reheats well in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I freeze these drumsticks?
A: Yes! Freeze cooled drumsticks in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven for best texture.
Sticky, Sweet, and Completely Addictive
These Slow Cooker Sweet Baby Ray’s Chicken Drumsticks are pure comfort food with minimal effort. Whether you serve them at a casual family dinner or as part of a weekend BBQ spread, they’re always a hit. Juicy, tender chicken coated in sweet, tangy BBQ sauce — what’s not to love?
If you make them, let me know how they turn out! Add your own twist with different BBQ sauces, a touch of heat, or serve them with your favorite sides. Either way, they’re finger-lickin’ good every single time.
Slow Cooker Sweet Baby Ray’s Chicken Drumsticks: Sticky, Sweet, and Finger-Lickin’ Good
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together the Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken drumsticks in the slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken drumsticks and serve, drizzling additional sauce from the slow cooker over the top if desired.
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