Description
Fall-off-the-bone tender chicken with a glossy, sticky glaze that’s the perfect balance of sweet maple syrup, tangy Dijon, and smoky depth. This recipe was born out of kitchen chaos and has become a forever favorite—simple, forgiving, and guaranteed to wow whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a party platter. Get ready for the easiest, most flavor-packed drumsticks you’ll ever make.
Ingredients
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16 skinless chicken drumsticks
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½ cup pure maple syrup
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½ cup Dijon mustard
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4 tbsp balsamic vinegar
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1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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1½ tsp garlic salt (or 1 tsp garlic powder + ½ tsp salt)
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
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Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
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Whisk the Sauce – In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, garlic salt, paprika, and black pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust for sweetness or tang.
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Coat the Chicken – Place drumsticks in the crock pot and pour sauce over. Toss until fully coated.
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Slow Cook – Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until chicken reaches 165°F and is tender.
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Caramelize (Optional but Amazing!) – Transfer cooked drumsticks to a baking sheet, brush with sauce, and broil 3-5 minutes until sticky and lightly crisp.
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Serve & Garnish – Place on a platter, drizzle with extra sauce, and sprinkle with parsley or green onions.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 6-7 hrs (low) / 3-4 hrs (high)