The Ultimate Guide to Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Wings: Tender, Juicy & Fall-Off-The-Bone Perfection

Unlock the secret to incredibly tender, flavor-packed chicken wings with this simple slow cooker recipe. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a casual get-together, or simply looking for an effortless weeknight meal, these Crockpot chicken wings are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Ready in just a few hours, this recipe involves minimal effort – just dump your ingredients and let your slow cooker do all the work. Start with fresh or frozen wings, coat them in a robust dry rub, and finish with a generous drizzle of your favorite buffalo or BBQ sauce. The result? Juicy, succulent wings that effortlessly fall off the bone, every single time!

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Why Readers Love This Recipe

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“If you don’t do anything else, make this recipe!! As soon as I saw it on Instagram, I knew what I was cooking the next day. I used BBQ sauce because my daughter doesn’t like Buffalo sauce. These wings were so tender. I put them in the broiler once they were finished, and the BBQ sauce caramelized nicely.”
~Felicia

This recipe consistently receives rave reviews for its sheer simplicity and outstanding results. Readers particularly appreciate how easy it is to prepare these succulent wings, making them a perfect solution for busy weeknights or stress-free entertaining. Unlike deep-fried wings, slow-cooked chicken wings are a healthier alternative, relying on their own juices for moisture and flavor without the need for excessive oil. They’re also incredibly versatile, easily adapting to various flavor profiles, from spicy buffalo to sweet and tangy BBQ, as Felicia noted in her glowing review. The ability to cook them ahead of time and keep them warm in the slow cooker makes them an ideal choice for parties and game day gatherings, allowing hosts to enjoy their guests rather than being stuck in the kitchen. The promise of “fall-off-the-bone” tenderness is consistently delivered, making this a go-to recipe for many home cooks seeking delicious, hassle-free chicken wings.

Key Ingredients for Succulent Slow Cooker Wings

Creating mouth-watering slow cooker chicken wings doesn’t require a long list of exotic ingredients. In fact, the magic happens with just a few fundamental components:

• **Chicken Wings:** The star of our show! We’ll discuss optimal types and preparation below.
• **Chicken Rub Spices:** A well-balanced dry rub is crucial for building deep flavor that penetrates the meat as it slow cooks.
• **Buffalo Sauce, BBQ Sauce, or any of your favorite sauce:** The sauce is what elevates these wings from simply seasoned to truly spectacular. It adds moisture, tang, and the classic sticky finish we all love. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your personal favorites!

Choosing the Best Chicken Wings for Your Crockpot

When preparing chicken wings in a slow cooker, the type of wing you choose can influence both convenience and the final texture. You have a few options:

Whole Wings: These are the complete chicken wing, including the drumette, wingette (flat), and wingtip, all attached. Whole wings are excellent for slow-cooking methods because the extended cook time ensures even doneness throughout. While often less recommended for other cooking methods like frying or grilling due to uneven cooking, the slow cooker eliminates this concern, allowing them to become incredibly tender. If you prefer a more substantial wing, whole wings are a fantastic choice.

Split Wings (Drumettes and Wingettes): Also known as “party wings” or “wingettes and drumettes,” these are chicken wings that have been separated at the joint into two distinct pieces. The drumette resembles a miniature drumstick, offering more meat, while the wingette (or flat) contains two small bones with a good meat-to-skin ratio. Split wings are incredibly popular for appetizers because they are easy to handle and eat. They also cook beautifully in the slow cooker, absorbing flavor efficiently. I often keep split wings on hand for their convenience and consistent results.

Both whole and split wings work wonderfully in the slow cooker, yielding tender and juicy results. The choice often comes down to personal preference for ease of eating and meat distribution.

Crafting the Perfect Dry Rub and Sauce for Flavor

The secret to truly delicious slow cooker chicken wings lies in layering flavors. I like to start by generously coating the wings in a flavorful dry rub, which adheres directly to the chicken and develops a savory crust. This foundational seasoning then harmonizes beautifully with the sauce during the slow cooking process, creating an ultimate flavor experience. While you can certainly use any of your favorite pre-made rubs, a homemade blend allows for customization and ensures fresh, vibrant tastes. Our go-to dry rub for these wings features a balanced blend of spices:

• Chili Powder: Adds a warm, earthy depth with a subtle hint of spice.
• Smoked Paprika: Delivers a beautiful smoky aroma and a rich, slightly sweet flavor, enhancing the chicken’s natural taste.
• Garlic Powder: Provides an essential savory base that complements almost any dish.
• Onion Powder: Offers a milder, sweeter onion flavor that rounds out the spice blend.
• Salt and Pepper: Crucial for seasoning and bringing all the flavors to life. Adjust to your personal preference.

Once the wings are seasoned with this aromatic dry rub, they’re ready to be slow-cooked with a generous drizzle of sauce. Buffalo sauce is a classic choice for a tangy, spicy kick, but BBQ sauce offers a smoky, sweet, and savory alternative. Feel free to use your preferred sauce to match your taste! The combination of the dry rub and the slow cooking in sauce ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Slow Cooker Crockpot Wings

Making these tender, flavorful slow cooker wings is incredibly straightforward. Follow these detailed steps for perfect results every time:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by thoroughly patting your chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the dry rub adhere better to the skin and can contribute to a slightly crispier finish if you choose to broil them later. Once dry, place the wings in a large bowl and generously sprinkle them with all of your chosen spices (chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper). Use your hands to massage the spices into every nook and cranny of the chicken, ensuring each wing is fully and evenly coated for maximum flavor. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
2. Load the Slow Cooker: Carefully arrange the seasoned chicken wings in your slow cooker. For best results and more even cooking, try to arrange them in a single layer or as close to it as possible. If stacking, ensure there’s enough room for heat circulation. Once the wings are in place, generously drizzle your chosen sauce – whether it’s classic buffalo, tangy BBQ, or another favorite – over all the wings. The sauce will mingle with the dry rub and create a fantastic flavor bath as it cooks.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection: Secure the lid on your slow cooker. Cook the wings on the HIGH setting for 2 to 2 ½ hours, or on the LOW setting for 4-5 hours. The cooking time can vary slightly depending on your slow cooker’s model and the size of your wings. The most important indicator of doneness is an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) when measured with a meat thermometer, and the chicken should be fork-tender, practically falling off the bone. Keep a watchful eye, especially towards the end of the cooking time, to ensure they don’t overcook and become mushy.

Optimal Cook Time for Slow Cooker Chicken Wings

The beauty of the slow cooker lies in its ability to gently cook food to perfection, and chicken wings are no exception. For these delicious, fall-off-the-bone wings, the general guidelines are:

• On High: Cook for 2 to 2 ½ hours. This is a great option if you’re a bit short on time but still want that slow-cooked tenderness.
• On Low: Cook for 4-5 hours. This longer, slower cook time yields even more succulent and deeply flavored results, allowing the spices and sauce to meld beautifully.

Regardless of the setting you choose, the key is to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Always use a reliable meat thermometer to verify doneness for food safety. The wings should also be visibly tender, easily pulling away from the bone. Remember that every slow cooker model can vary slightly in temperature and cooking speed, so it’s always wise to monitor your wings, especially during your first attempt with a new recipe or appliance. Avoid overcooking, as this can lead to a mushy texture rather than the desired tender crispness.

The Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture of Slow-Cooked Wings

When you prepare chicken wings in a slow cooker, you are intentionally opting for a specific, highly desirable texture: incredibly tender, juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth and effortlessly falls off the bone. The moist, enclosed environment of the Crockpot breaks down the connective tissues in the chicken over several hours, resulting in this signature tenderness. If your primary goal is this deeply succulent, fall-off-the-bone experience, then this slow cooker recipe is absolutely perfect for you.

However, if you prefer wings with a chewier bite or a distinctly crispy skin straight out of the pot, this method alone won’t deliver that. The slow cooker excels at tenderness, not crispness. For those who prioritize a crisp exterior, we highly recommend an additional finishing step, which we’ll cover in the next section. But if pure, unadulterated tenderness is what you crave, look no further!

How to Achieve Crispy Slow Cooker Wings

While the slow cooker excels at producing incredibly tender, juicy, fall-off-the-bone chicken wings, it doesn’t typically create that sought-after crispy skin on its own. The moist environment inside the Crockpot is perfect for tenderizing, but not for crisping. However, you can easily achieve a delightfully crispy exterior with a quick extra step after they’ve finished slow cooking.

Once your wings are fully cooked and wonderfully tender, carefully remove them from the slow cooker (they will be very delicate!). Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Then, place the baking sheet under your oven’s broiler for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until the skin turns golden brown and achieves your desired level of crispness. Keep a close eye on them, as broilers can vary in intensity, and wings can go from perfectly crispy to burnt very quickly. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, for similar crispy results. This simple finishing touch transforms tender slow-cooked wings into crispy, restaurant-quality delights.

Using Frozen Chicken Wings in the Slow Cooker

One of the many conveniences of slow cooking is its flexibility, even when it comes to using frozen ingredients. You absolutely can use frozen chicken wings for this recipe, making it an even quicker option on those days when you forget to thaw the meat. However, there are a few adjustments to keep in mind to ensure optimal flavor and proper cooking:

1. Seasoning: Since the spices won’t adhere effectively to frozen chicken, you’ll need to adapt your seasoning method. Instead of rubbing the frozen wings directly, mix all the dry rub spices thoroughly into your chosen sauce (buffalo, BBQ, etc.). This allows the sauce to become a flavorful marinade that infuses the chicken as it thaws and cooks.
2. Cook Time: Frozen wings will naturally require a longer cooking time compared to fresh or thawed wings. Plan to add at least an additional hour to the recommended cook time. So, if cooking on HIGH, aim for 3-3.5 hours; on LOW, plan for 5-6 hours. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) before serving.
3. No Added Liquid: It’s generally not necessary to add any extra liquid when cooking frozen chicken wings in the slow cooker, as they will release a significant amount of moisture as they thaw. The sauce you add will provide enough liquid for the tenderizing process.

By following these simple adjustments, your frozen chicken wings will emerge from the slow cooker just as tender and delicious as those made with fresh poultry, proving this recipe’s ultimate versatility.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Spices and Seasoning Ideas

While our classic dry rub provides a fantastic flavor base, the beauty of chicken wings is their adaptability to a world of spices and seasonings. Don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own signature blend! Here are some additional spice options and homemade seasoning ideas to elevate your slow cooker wings:

• Homemade Ranch Seasoning: For a creamy, herb-infused flavor, a good ranch seasoning mix can transform your wings.
• Homemade BBQ Seasoning and Rub: If you’re leaning towards a smoky, sweet, and savory BBQ profile, a dedicated BBQ rub will intensify those flavors.
• Dry Rub for Chicken: Explore various general chicken dry rubs that often include a blend of garlic, paprika, brown sugar, and various herbs for a well-rounded flavor.
• Cajun Seasoning and Rub: For those who love a bold, spicy kick, Cajun seasoning delivers vibrant flavors with a hint of heat and a medley of herbs.
• Herbs & Spices: Consider adding dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. Lemon zest can also add a bright, fresh note to your rub.

Remember, when using a different rub, ensure it complements your chosen sauce. The slow cooker provides the perfect environment for these layered flavors to meld and develop, ensuring your wings are always a culinary adventure.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftover Wings

It’s rare to have leftovers when these delicious slow cooker chicken wings are on the menu, but if you do, storing and reheating them properly ensures they remain just as enjoyable. The key is to maintain their moisture and flavor, and ideally, restore a bit of that crispy texture if you desire.

How to Store: Once the wings have cooled to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container. This is crucial for preventing them from drying out and absorbing other fridge odors. Stored correctly, your leftover slow cooker chicken wings will stay fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months.

How to Reheat: The best way to reheat these wings depends on your desired outcome:

• For Tender Wings (Slow Cooker or Oven): If you want to maintain maximum tenderness, reheat them gently in the slow cooker on the LOW setting until thoroughly warmed through. Alternatively, place them in a baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot.
• For Crispy Wings (Air Fryer or Oven Broiler): If you prefer to bring back some crispiness, the air fryer is your best friend. Reheat in a single layer in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until heated and crispy. You can also use the oven broiler method described earlier: arrange on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes per side until crisp and heated.

Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as it can make the wings rubbery and diminish their flavor. With these tips, your slow cooker chicken wings will be a delight from the first serving to the last!

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Slow Cooker Wings

Slow cooker chicken wings are a versatile main course or appetizer that pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Whether you’re aiming for a classic comfort food spread or a fresh, vibrant meal, here are some excellent recipes to complement your tender wings:

• Air Fryer French Fries: The ultimate classic pairing. Crispy, golden fries offer a perfect textural contrast to the tender wings.
• Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad: A creamy, savory, and refreshing pasta salad adds a delightful coolness, especially with spicy wings.
• Southern Macaroni Salad: A timeless side dish, this creamy macaroni salad provides a comforting and tangy balance.
• Smoked Baked Potatoes: For a heartier side, a fluffy baked potato with a hint of smokiness is always a winner.
• Celery and Carrot Sticks with Blue Cheese or Ranch Dressing: A traditional accompaniment that offers a refreshing crunch and a cool, creamy dip to cut through the richness of the wings.
• Coleslaw: The crispness and tangy dressing of coleslaw make it an ideal counterpoint to rich, saucy wings.

Feel free to mix and match these sides to create a complete and satisfying meal that will impress your family and guests.

More Dry Rub Wing Recipes to Explore

If you’ve fallen in love with the depth of flavor a good dry rub can bring to chicken wings, then you’re in for a treat! Dry rubs are fantastic for creating a crispy exterior and infusing the meat with robust seasonings. Explore these other fantastic dry rub wing recipes for different cooking methods and flavor profiles:

• Air Fryer Chicken Wings: Achieve incredible crispiness with less oil, perfect for a guilt-free “fried” wing experience.
• How to Grill Chicken Wings: Learn the secrets to perfectly charred and smoky wings straight from the grill.
• Crispy Ranch Chicken Wings: A delightful savory and herbaceous twist on classic crispy wings.
• Air Fryer Turkey Wings: A great option for a larger, more substantial wing, perfect for the air fryer.
• Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken: While not strictly a wing recipe, this offers inspiration for cheesy, crispy coatings that can be adapted.
• Cajun Chicken Wings: For a fiery and flavorful kick, these wings bring the taste of the Bayou to your table.
• Naked Chicken Wings: Simple, un-sauced wings that rely purely on the dry rub and the natural flavor of the chicken, allowing for post-cooking sauce customization.

More Flavored Wing Recipes for Every Palate

Beyond the classic buffalo and BBQ, chicken wings are a canvas for an incredible array of flavors. Whether you crave sweet, savory, tangy, or spicy, there’s a wing recipe to satisfy every palate. Dive into these diverse flavored wing recipes to expand your culinary repertoire:

• Sweet Chili Chicken Wings: A harmonious blend of sweet and spicy, these wings are incredibly addictive with a sticky glaze.
• Teriyaki Chicken Wings: Immerse your wings in a rich, savory, and slightly sweet Japanese-inspired glaze.
• Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings: Bright, zesty, and peppery, offering a refreshing departure from heavier sauces.
• Honey Hot Wings: The perfect balance of sweet honey and fiery hot sauce for a truly irresistible combination.
• Honey Garlic Wings: A universally loved flavor profile that combines sticky sweetness with aromatic garlic.
• Air Fryer Buffalo Wings: Get that classic buffalo flavor with a crispy finish, ideal for those following keto or low-carb diets.
• Garlic Parmesan Wings: A savory, cheesy delight with a rich garlic butter flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Honey BBQ Wings: A sweet and smoky take on traditional BBQ, with a touch of honey for extra stickiness.
• Keto Low Carb Chicken Wings (Maple BBQ): Enjoy the rich flavors of BBQ while keeping it low-carb with a maple-infused sauce.
• Traeger Smoked Chicken Wings: Infuse your wings with incredible smoky flavor using a pellet grill for a gourmet touch.

Slow Cooker Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Wings: The Full Recipe

By Brandi Crawford

This Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken Wings recipe is incredibly easy, taking just a couple of hours from start to finish. Simply combine the ingredients and let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. Using fresh or frozen wings, season them with a delicious dry rub and a generous drizzle of buffalo or BBQ sauce for tender, juicy, fall-off-the-bone wings every single time!

Rated 5 stars from 7 votes

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Prep Time 10 mins

Cook Time 2 hrs 30 mins

Total Time 2 hrs 40 mins

Course dinner, lunch

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 438 kcal

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Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Meat Thermometer

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken wings (I use drummettes/split wings)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• salt and pepper to taste
• ¾ cup buffalo sauce You can substitute any sauce, like BBQ, etc.

Instructions

• Pat the chicken dry and season thoroughly with all of the spices (smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper). Ensure the chicken is fully coated; use additional spices if necessary.
• Place the seasoned wings in your slow cooker (a 7-quart slow cooker works well). Drizzle the buffalo sauce evenly over all the wings.
• Cook on High for 2 to 2 ½ hours or on Low for 4-5 hours. Continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) and is tender. Keep in mind that slow cookers vary, so monitor your wings to prevent overcooking, which can lead to a mushy texture.
• Carefully remove the wings from the slow cooker, as they will be extremely tender.
• If you prefer crispy wings, transfer them to a baking sheet and broil for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired crispness.

Notes

If you choose not to use any sauce for the recipe, cook the wings in 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth to keep them moist.

Feel free to use any of your favorite spice blends or dry rubs to customize the flavor of the chicken.

Making these wings in the Crockpot results in incredibly tender, juicy wings that will literally fall off the bone. If you are not looking for this fall-off-the-bone texture and prefer a firmer wing, this recipe may not be for you.

Nutrition

Serving: 4oz
Calories: 438kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 28g

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Nutrition Data

Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.

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