Spicy, sticky, and delicious, these Spicy Chicken Drumsticks are one of the top recipes you can make in your slow cooker using Sriracha, Piri-Piri rub, basil pesto, paprika, and garlic granules.

To make Chicken Drumsticks in your slow cooker or crockpot, simply marinate the drumsticks overnight, then cook them on low for 6 hours, turning halfway through.

Isn’t it great when cooking is this simple? Give these drumsticks a try, then pop back here to share your experience and encourage others to try it too!

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Drumsticks Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 1 tbsp of Sriracha sauce
• 2 tsp of Piri-Piri rub
• 1 tbsp of basil pesto
• 2 tsp of paprika
• 1 tsp of garlic granules
• 1 tbsp of tomato ketchup

For the Chicken:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• Sea salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Serving:

• 1 red chili, finely chopped
• A handful of fresh coriander leaves, roughly chopped
• 4 servings of oven chips, cooked from frozen
• 4 corn on the cob, prepared as desired

How To Make Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Drumsticks

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine Sriracha sauce, Piri-Piri rub, basil pesto, paprika, garlic granules, and tomato ketchup. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add chicken drumsticks to the marinade in the bowl. Toss them gently to coat evenly. Seal the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Cook the Chicken: The following day, transfer the marinated chicken drumsticks to your slow cooker. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Cover and set the cooker on low heat. Let the drumsticks cook for 6 hours, turning them once halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
4. Prepare the Side Dishes: While the chicken is cooking, prepare your side dishes. Cook the oven chips according to the package instructions until golden and crisp. For the corn on the cob, boil, grill, or steam them according to your preference.
5. Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, arrange the drumsticks on a serving platter. Scatter the finely chopped red chili and fresh coriander leaves over the chicken for garnish. Serve hot alongside the crispy oven chips and corn on the cob.

Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish up to the point of cooking and keep it refrigerated. Prepare the marinade and chicken a day ahead, and start slow cooking the next day. This is useful for managing time during busy days.

Recipe Tips

• Optimize Marinating Time: To deepen the flavors, marinate the chicken drumsticks for at least 24 hours if your schedule allows; this extra time helps the spices penetrate more deeply into the meat.
• Maintain Moisture: To prevent the chicken from drying out during slow cooking, ensure the lid of your slow cooker is tightly sealed; this traps steam and keeps the chicken moist.
• Enhance Flavor With Smoke: For a smoky taste, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the marinade before mixing it with the chicken; this mimics the flavor of grilling without an actual grill.
• Check for Doneness: Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F with a meat thermometer before serving; this ensures the chicken is safely cooked and tender.

Recipe Variations

• Alternate Protein: Replace chicken drumsticks with chicken thighs for a richer flavor and more tender meat; adjust cooking time as needed to ensure thorough cooking.
• Vegetarian Twist: Substitute chicken with large portobello mushrooms or chunks of eggplant for a vegetarian version; these vegetables make a hearty alternative when marinated and slow-cooked.
• Change Up the Heat: For a different type of heat, substitute the Sriracha and Piri-Piri with a tablespoon of chipotle in adobo sauce; this adds a smoky heat instead of the sharp bite of Sriracha.
• Add Citrus Zing: Introduce a tablespoon of orange zest to the marinade for a citrus twist; the brightness of the orange complements the deep, spicy flavors of the marinade.

What To Serve With Spicy Chicken Drumsticks

Serve your Spicy Chicken Drumsticks with sides like a crisp apple slaw, Cornbread, a tangy Greek salad, roasted sweet potatoes, and a creamy cucumber raita.

You can also pair these drumsticks with steamed green beans, a zesty quinoa salad, and a simple pasta salad for a balanced meal.

How To Store Leftover Spicy Chicken Drumsticks

In The Fridge:

Store leftover Spicy Chicken Drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken cools to room temperature before storing it to maintain its quality.

In The Freezer:

Spicy Chicken Drumsticks can be stored in the freezer, although the texture may slightly change. Pack the drumsticks in a freezer-safe bag or container, squeeze out excess air, and freeze for up to 3 months.

How To Reheat Leftover Spicy Chicken Drumsticks

Reheat your leftover Spicy Chicken Drumsticks by placing them in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.

If you prefer, you can also microwave them on high for 2-3 minutes, turning halfway to ensure even heating.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Jerk Chicken
• Slow Cooker Butter Chicken With Jar Sauce
• Malaysian Chicken Curry In Slow Cooker