These crockpot maple mustard chicken drumsticks are tender, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. With a sweet and tangy sauce that slowly infuses into the chicken, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days and family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a true set-it-and-forget-it meal. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming simple ingredients into juicy, fall-off-the-bone chicken. The balance of maple syrup and Dijon mustard creates a sauce that is both sweet and savory, appealing to both adults and kids. It’s made with wholesome, halal-friendly ingredients and pairs beautifully with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 lbs chicken drumsticks
1/2 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth or homemade chicken stock
1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper, or to taste
Optional: cooked brown rice, for serving
Directions
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and well combined.
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry, then season them evenly with sea salt and fresh ground black pepper.
Place the seasoned drumsticks into the slow cooker in a single layer as much as possible.
Pour the maple mustard sauce over the chicken, turning the drumsticks gently so they are well coated.
Add the chicken broth to the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and very tender.
Once cooked, carefully transfer the sauce from the slow cooker into a blender and blend until smooth.
Serve the drumsticks warm with the blended sauce spooned over the top. Pair with cooked brown rice if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 5 servings.
Preparation time: about 10 minutes
Cooking time: 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
Total time: up to 8 hours
Variations
You can add a teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder to the sauce for extra depth of flavor. For a slightly spicy version, stir in a small amount of chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Chicken thighs can be used instead of drumsticks with the same cooking times. For a thicker sauce without blending, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks?
Yes, but for best results and even cooking, it’s recommended to thaw the drumsticks fully before adding them to the slow cooker.
Is Dijon mustard very spicy?
Dijon mustard is tangy rather than spicy, and when combined with maple syrup, the flavor becomes mild and well balanced.
Can I make this recipe without a blender?
Yes, blending is optional. The sauce will still taste great even if left slightly chunky.
What can I serve with these drumsticks?
They pair well with brown rice, white rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Can I cook this only on high?
Yes, cooking on high for 3 to 4 hours works well, but cooking on low yields the most tender chicken.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. The chicken reheats well and keeps its flavor for several days.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, as long as your slow cooker is large enough and the chicken is not overcrowded.
Will the sauce be very sweet?
The sweetness is balanced by the mustard and vinegar, resulting in a savory-sweet flavor rather than overly sweet.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Yes, carrots or onions can be added, but keep in mind they may absorb some of the sauce.
How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and be very tender, easily pulling away from the bone.
Conclusion
Crockpot maple mustard chicken drumsticks are an easy, comforting meal that delivers bold flavor with minimal prep. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or planning simple meals for the week, this recipe offers reliability, taste, and wholesome ingredients all in one dish.
These crockpot maple mustard chicken drumsticks are tender, juicy, and packed with sweet and tangy flavor. Made with wholesome ingredients and minimal prep, it’s an easy, comforting slow-cooker meal perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
2 lbs chicken drumsticks
1/2 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth or homemade chicken stock
1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper, or to taste
Optional: cooked brown rice, for serving
Instructions
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry and season with sea salt and black pepper.
Place the drumsticks in a single layer in the slow cooker.
Pour the maple mustard sauce over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
Add the chicken broth to the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is very tender and fully cooked.
Optional: Transfer the sauce to a blender and blend until smooth for serving.
Serve warm with sauce spooned over the top. Pair with brown rice or vegetables if desired.
Notes
Add garlic powder, onion powder, or chili flakes for extra flavor.
Use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks if preferred.
To thicken sauce without blending, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Blending the sauce is optional—it will still be flavorful if left as-is.
This recipe doubles well for larger meals or meal prep.
