Slow Cooker Bourbon Glazed Chicken Drumsticks Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For the most tender chicken, cook on low heat. The longer, gentler cooking time breaks down collagen more effectively than high heat.

If you're short on time, high heat works, but check the temperature early to avoid overcooking. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving helps the juices redistribute.

To make the sauce even thicker, remove the chicken and simmer the remaining liquid on the stovetop for 5-10 minutes. This concentrates the flavors and creates a syrupy glaze.

You can also add a splash of bourbon at the end for extra depth, but be aware that alcohol won't fully cook off in a slow cooker.

Variations

• Spicy Bourbon Glaze: Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
• Honey Garlic Version: Replace the bourbon BBQ glaze with a mixture of 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, and 4 cloves minced garlic. Omit the brown sugar.
• Smoky Chipotle: Stir 1-2 minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce into the glaze. The smoky heat pairs well with the sweet molasses notes.
• Citrus Bourbon: Add the zest and juice of one orange to the glaze. The bright citrus cuts through the richness and adds a fresh dimension.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until piping hot.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The sauce will thicken as it cools; reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to loosen it. The chicken can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

This dish can be assembled the night before and refrigerated, then placed in the slow cooker in the morning.

Add 30 minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold. Alternatively, cook the chicken fully and reheat gently before serving.

Serving ideas

Serve the drumsticks over creamy garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the extra sauce. A side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad balances the richness. Crusty bread is also great for dipping into the glaze.

For a casual gathering, arrange the drumsticks on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh scallions and sesame seeds.

Provide plenty of napkins — this dish is deliciously messy. Leftover sauce can be served on the side for extra dipping.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Bourbon Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Prep 10 minCook 4 hTotal 4 h 10 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 12 peeled whole garlic cloves
• 4 scallions, sliced
• 1 cup bourbon BBQ glaze
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar, packed
• garlic mashed potatoes, for serving

Instructions

1. Place the chicken drumsticks in the slow cooker, arranging them in a circle so they fit snugly. Scatter the garlic cloves and scallions over the top.
2. Pour the bourbon BBQ glaze over the chicken, using a spoon to coat each piece. Sprinkle the dark brown sugar evenly over the top.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Once the chicken is cooked, use tongs to transfer to a serving plate. Spoon some of the glaze over the top. Serve with garlic mashed potatoes if desired.

Contains: gluten, milk, sulfites

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

540

Protein

38 g

Carbohydrates

45 g

Fat

22 g

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.