Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering dish that practically cooks itself? Look no further than these Crock Pot BBQ Chicken Legs! With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a savory meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine tender, juicy chicken legs infused with rich BBQ flavors, all while you go about your day. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, and it promises to be a crowd-pleaser every time. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover how effortless deliciousness can be!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 chicken legs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken legs by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the seasoning adhere better.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Thoroughly season the chicken legs on all sides with this spice mixture.
- Lightly grease the inside of the crock pot with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken legs in a single layer inside the crock pot, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow even cooking.
- Pour the BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken legs, making sure each piece is well-coated and covered.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and absorb the BBQ sauce flavors.
- After 6 hours, check the internal temperature of the chicken legs with a meat thermometer. It should read at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure safe consumption.
- Optional: For a crispy exterior, transfer the chicken legs to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until slightly caramelized.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dishes like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Prep the Chicken: Always pat the chicken legs dry before seasoning. This step helps the spices adhere better and ensures a more flavorful result.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Make sure to coat the chicken legs evenly with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper mixture for maximum flavor.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When placing the chicken in the crock pot, arrange them in a single layer. This allows for even cooking and ensures that every piece gets the perfect amount of BBQ sauce.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken legs reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Crispy Finish: For an extra touch, broil the cooked chicken legs in the oven for 3-5 minutes. This will give them a delightful crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This lets the juices redistribute, making each bite even more succulent.
- Pair Perfectly: Serve these BBQ chicken legs with classic sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 340kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 140mg
