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### Step-by-Step Instructions
**1. Prepare the Chicken**
– Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels.
– In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Rub this seasoning mix evenly over the drumsticks.
**2. Set Up the Crockpot**
– Spray the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray or lightly coat with olive oil to prevent sticking.
– Arrange the seasoned chicken legs in the crockpot in a single layer, overlapping slightly if needed.
**3. Add the BBQ Sauce**
– Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken legs, ensuring each piece is coated.
– For an extra touch of sweetness, mix honey or brown sugar into the BBQ sauce before pouring.
**4. Cook Low and Slow**
– Cover and cook on **low heat for 5-6 hours** or on **high heat for 3-4 hours**, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
**5. Optional Step: Broil for a Crispy Finish**
– For crispy, caramelized chicken skin, transfer the cooked drumsticks to a baking sheet lined with foil.
– Brush with additional BBQ sauce and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until slightly charred and sticky.
**6. Serve and Enjoy**
– Plate the chicken legs and drizzle with any leftover BBQ sauce from the crockpot.
– Pair with coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
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### Tips for the Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken Legs
1. **Choose Your BBQ Sauce Wisely**: Use a sauce you love! Sweet, smoky, or spicy—it’s up to you.
2. **Double the Recipe**: Easily scale up the recipe for a crowd. Just ensure the crockpot isn’t overfilled.
3. **Use Chicken Thighs or Wings**: This recipe is versatile and works with other cuts of chicken, too.
4. **Make It Smokier**: Add a splash of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce for that authentic smoky flavor.
5. **Thicken the Sauce**: If you like thicker BBQ sauce, transfer it to a saucepan and simmer until reduced.
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### Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– **Effortless Cooking**: The crockpot does all the work while you go about your day.
– **Perfectly Tender**: Slow cooking ensures juicy, fall-off-the-bone chicken.
– **Versatile**: Works great as a main dish, party snack, or meal prep option.
– **Customizable**: Adjust the sweetness, smokiness, or spice level to suit your taste.
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### Final Thoughts
These **Crockpot BBQ Chicken Legs** are proof that simple ingredients and a little patience can lead to a mouthwatering meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for an easy dinner option, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
Dust off your crockpot and get ready to serve up a dish that will have everyone licking their fingers and asking for seconds. Enjoy!
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