Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2–2½ lb)

• ⅓ cup honey

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium onion, diced

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt, or to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

• ½ cup chicken broth

• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

2. Add the onion: Spread the diced onion across the bottom of the slow cooker.

3. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chicken broth.

4. Add chicken: Arrange the drumsticks over the onion and pour the honey-garlic sauce over them. Turn the chicken to coat evenly.

5. Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at minimum and is tender.

6. Thicken the sauce: Transfer the sauce to a small saucepan if desired. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 2–3 minutes until glossy and thick. Alternatively, thicken the liquid in the slow cooker on HIGH with the lid slightly open.

7. Optional caramelized finish: Place the cooked drumsticks on a foil-lined baking tray and broil for 3–5 minutes, watching closely so the honey does not burn.

8. Serve: Brush with extra sauce and serve with rice, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Quick recipe

1. Add diced onion to the slow cooker.

2. Season chicken drumsticks and arrange them on top.

3. Mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, lemon juice, and broth.

4. Pour sauce over chicken.

5. Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until at least 165°F (74°C).

6. Thicken the sauce if desired and spoon it over the chicken.

Nutrition information

Estimated per serving, assuming 6 servings

Values vary with drumstick size, skin, and the brands of honey and soy sauce.

Nut information and allergens

• Peanuts: None intentionally added.

• Tree nuts: None intentionally added.

• Soy: Contains soy sauce; use coconut aminos if appropriate.

• Gluten: Regular soy sauce may contain wheat; use certified gluten-free tamari if needed.

• Dairy: Naturally dairy-free with the listed ingredients.

• Allergy caution: Check all packaged ingredients for allergen and cross-contact warnings.

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly to 165°F (74°C).