Crockpot Chicken Legs

Name: Crockpot Chicken Legs
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 5 min
Yield: 5
Ingredients: 2 - 2 1/2 pounds chicken legs; 2 1/2 teaspoons Kosher salt; 1 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 2 tablespoons oil (avocado, canola, or olive oil)

These Crockpot Chicken Legs are one seriously delicious, really easy dinner idea that requires zero effort on your behalf to get over-complicated recipes and fussy sauces. This is one such recipe that will bring you, your family, and your friends closer together.

These crockpot chicken legs are a simple, straightforward recipe that every family member at the dinner table will love, including the kids and the grownups. You only need chicken legs, my simple Southern spice blend, and a little oil. Let’s get started.

Ingredients

Chicken Legs – This recipe calls for 2 to 2 1/2 pounds of chicken legs, which are juicy and flavorful. You can easily adjust the amount depending on how many hungry mouths you have to feed and the size of your slow cooker. If you prefer chicken thighs or drumsticks, you can use those instead, but keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.

Oil – Avocado oil is my go-to for this recipe because it can handle high heat and has a mild taste. You can swap it with any oil you have on hand, such as canola oil or olive oil. The oil helps the seasoning adhere to the chicken and keeps it moist.

Kosher Salt – A generous amount of kosher salt (2 1/2 teaspoons) brings out the flavor of the chicken and the spices. Kosher salt has larger grains than table salt, creating a nice crust on the chicken. You can adjust the salt level to your liking.

Black Pepper – A dash of black pepper (1 1/4 teaspoons) adds heat and depth to the seasoning. You can increase or decrease the amount of pepper depending on how spicy your chicken tastes.

Garlic Powder – A sprinkle of garlic powder (1 teaspoon) gives some aroma and flavor to the seasoning. You can never go wrong with garlic in my opinion, but you can use more or less of it depending on your preference.
Paprika – A touch of paprika (1 teaspoon) adds some color and flavor to the seasoning. Paprika can be sweet or smoky, depending on the variety. I like to use sweet paprika for this recipe, but you can use smoked paprika if you want a more intense flavor.

How To Cook Chicken Legs in The Crockpot

➊ Pat the chicken legs dry. Use a paper towel to remove any excess moisture from the surface of the chicken. This will help the oil and the seasoning to stick better.

➋ Drizzle the chicken legs with oil. You can use any oil, but I prefer avocado oil for its high smoke point and neutral flavor. Toss the chicken legs to coat them evenly with oil.

➌ Make a savory Southern spice blend. In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. Sprinkle the seasoning over the chicken legs and rub it in with your hands. Make sure to cover all sides of the chicken with the spice blend.

➍ Add the chicken legs to the slow cooker. Arrange them in a single layer in a 6-quart slow cooker. You don’t need to add any liquid to the pot, as the chicken will release its juices as it cooks.

➎ Cook the chicken legs in the Crock Pot. Cover and cook on low for 3 1/2 to 4 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach at least 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer.

➏ Transfer the chicken legs to a platter and garnish with parsley if desired.

➐ Enjoy your crockpot chicken legs with your favorite side dishes or salads.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken legs?

Yes, you can use any cut of chicken that you like for this recipe. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. Chicken thighs and drumsticks may take longer to cook than chicken legs.

Can I make this recipe keto-friendly or low-carb?

Yes, this recipe is already keto-friendly and low-carb as it is. The only thing you need to watch out for is the oil that you use. Make sure to use a keto-friendly oil such as avocado, coconut, or olive oil. Avoid vegetable oils or canola oils as they are high in omega-6 fatty acids and may cause inflammation.

What are some good side dishes or salads to serve with crockpot chicken legs?

There are many options for side dishes or salads that go well with crockpot chicken legs. Some of my favorites are:
Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts
Green beans or asparagus
Coleslaw or cucumber salad
Cornbread or biscuits

Can I cook frozen chicken legs in a Crockpot?

Yes, you can cook frozen chicken legs in a Crockpot. However, it is recommended to thaw the chicken legs first to ensure that they cook evenly and to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken legs in a Crockpot recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of chicken legs in a Crockpot recipe. However, chicken breasts tend to dry out more easily than chicken legs, so you may need to adjust the cooking time and/or add more liquid to the recipe to prevent the chicken from becoming too dry.