Juicy, fall-off-the-bone tender and infused with a blend of herbs and spices, Crock Pot Chicken Legs are the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dinner. This recipe turns a simple pack of drumsticks into a crave-worthy family meal with barely any effort. Whether you’re juggling work, errands, or just want dinner to cook itself, this slow cooker gem delivers every single time.

The secret to the flavor? A garlic and herb marinade that slowly melds into the meat during hours of low-and-slow cooking. Serve it up with your favorite side dishes or pile it high on a plate for game day munching. Either way, these chicken legs are guaranteed to impress.

What Kind of Chicken Legs Should I Use?

Fresh or frozen chicken legs both work beautifully in the crock pot, though thawed legs will cook more evenly. Look for drumsticks with the skin still on—it helps lock in moisture and keeps the meat from drying out. If you prefer leaner results, you can remove the skin before serving.

Ingredients for the Crock Pot Chicken Legs

Chicken Legs (Drumsticks): The star of this recipe! Choose meaty drumsticks for juicy results.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the chicken with deep, savory notes.
Soy Sauce: Adds umami depth and enhances browning.
Honey: A touch of sweetness balances the saltiness and gives the legs a glossy finish.
Paprika: For color and mild heat.
Onion Powder: Boosts the savory flavor.
Dried Thyme or Italian Seasoning: Adds an herby kick that pairs perfectly with slow-cooked meat.
Olive Oil: Helps coat the drumsticks in seasoning and prevents sticking.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning every bite.

How To Make the Crock Pot Chicken Legs

Step 1: Mix the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper until fully combined.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels. Place them in the crock pot and pour the marinade over them. Use tongs or your hands to toss until all pieces are well coated.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Set your slow cooker to LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F).

Step 4: Optional Broil for Crispy Skin

For crispy skin, transfer the cooked chicken legs to a foil-lined baking sheet. Broil for 3-5 minutes until the tops are golden and slightly crisp.

How to Serve and Store These Chicken Legs

Once cooked, these crock pot chicken legs can be served straight from the pot with some of the rich juices spooned over the top. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F until warmed through or microwave in short intervals.

What to Serve With Crock Pot Chicken Legs?

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and buttery potatoes soak up the flavorful juices from the chicken legs.

Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Rich and indulgent, these au gratin potatoes add a luxurious touch to this homey dish.

Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes

A vibrant and earthy pairing with a touch of sweetness.

Cheeseburger Soup

A fun, hearty side to serve on a chill evening—perfect comfort food.

Classic Dinner Rolls

Soft, fluffy rolls to mop up every last drop of that delicious sauce.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love these Crock Pot Chicken Legs, you’ll definitely want to check out these other satisfying meals:

Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken with bacon and ranch flavors that melt in your mouth.
Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken for a golden, crunchy twist.
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy if you’re in the mood for smothered, savory bites.
Baked Legs with Cream of Mushroom for a creamy, oven-baked variation.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni if you’re craving a pasta-packed plate.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of BBQ sauce or a smoky rub? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Crock Pot Chicken Legs

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Need a no-fuss dinner idea? These Crock Pot Chicken Legs deliver melt-in-your-mouth flavor with minimal effort. Coated in a savory garlic and herb marinade, then slow-cooked to perfection, this easy dinner idea is ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s juicy, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with so many sides. Whether you’re after healthy snack ideas, food ideas for meal prep, or crave-worthy comfort food, this recipe checks every box.