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Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks

A comforting, crowd-pleasing weeknight favorite made easy in the slow cooker. Juicy drumsticks coated in a zingy buffalo glaze, finished with a touch of butter for richness. Simple ingredients, hands-off cooking, and bold flavors that pair perfectly with cool ranch or blue cheese dip and celery sticks.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 pieces bone-in chicken drumsticks
  • 3/4 cup hot buffalo sauce (like Frank's RedHot)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Optional dash of cayenne pepper if you like extra heat
  • 2 tbsp ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing (for serving, optional)

Instructions
 

  • Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels to help the sauce stick. This step also helps the skin crisp a bit once the drumsticks are finished.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the buffalo sauce, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). This creates a well-balanced glaze with balance between heat, tang, and fat.
  • Place the drumsticks in the slow cooker, arranged in a single layer as much as possible. If needed, layer them in two rows to fit a 4-quart or larger slow cooker.
  • Pour the buffalo glaze over the drumsticks, then turn the cooker to low. Cook for 6 to 7 hours, or until the meat is tender and juicy and the internal temperature reaches about 165°F (74°C).
  • If your slow cooker doesn't have a tight lid or you want a stickier glaze, switch to the high setting for the last 15–20 minutes and let the sauce reduce a bit, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  • Carefully remove the drumsticks from the slow cooker and transfer to a serving platter. If you like a glaze that clings a little more, spoon any remaining sauce from the cooker over the drumsticks.
  • Serve immediately with your chosen dipping sauces. A dollop of ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side adds a cooling contrast to the heat, while celery sticks provide a crisp, refreshing crunch.