Tender and Juicy Turkey Drumsticks in the Slow Cooker
The slow cooker is your best friend when it comes to effortless, flavorful meals, and turkey drumsticks are no exception. This simple recipe will result in succulent, fall-off-the-bone drumsticks that are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
What You'll Need:
- 4-6 turkey drumsticks (about 2-3 pounds total)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped onion, 1/4 cup chopped celery, 1/4 cup chopped carrot, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
- Prep your drumsticks: Rinse the drumsticks and pat them dry with paper towels. If desired, you can trim any excess skin or fat.
- Season the drumsticks: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the drumsticks and toss to coat evenly. You can also add the optional vegetables and spices at this stage.
- Slow cook: Place the drumsticks in the slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Check for doneness: After the cooking time is complete, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the drumsticks reaches 165°F.
- Serve: You can serve the turkey drumsticks as is, or shred them and use them in a variety of recipes. Some ideas include:
- Turkey drumstick sandwiches: Serve the shredded turkey on toasted buns with your favorite toppings like mayo, mustard, lettuce, and tomato.
- Turkey drumstick salad: Combine the shredded turkey with chopped vegetables, a creamy dressing, and your favorite toppings.
- Turkey drumstick soup: Add the shredded turkey to a pot of broth with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Make sure there's enough space between the drumsticks for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: It's the best way to ensure your drumsticks are cooked through and safe to eat.
- Add more flavor: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat, or a tablespoon of honey for a sweet and savory flavor.
Enjoy!
This simple and delicious recipe is a perfect way to enjoy turkey drumsticks without the hassle of traditional oven roasting.
