Ingredients
Chicken Drumsticks
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Maple Mustard Sauce
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken drumsticks evenly in the slow cooker. Season them thoroughly with salt, black pepper, and onion powder to enhance the flavor base.
- Make the sauce: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic until you have a smooth, uniform sauce.
- Add sauce and cook: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the coated drumsticks. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optional broiling step: For a caramelized, sticky glaze, transfer the cooked drumsticks onto a baking sheet and broil them in your oven for 3 to 5 minutes. Keep a close watch to avoid burning.
- Serve: Spoon the flavorful sauce from the slow cooker over the drumsticks before serving to ensure every bite is juicy and delicious.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Broiling is optional but recommended for added texture and color.
- Use fresh garlic or bottled minced garlic as preferred.
- Maple syrup can be substituted with honey for a different sweetness profile.
- This recipe works great for meal prepping and leftovers reheat well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
