Step 1

Whisk together the hoisin, honey, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic and chile flakes if using in a medium bowl. Sprinkle the drumsticks all over with the five-spice powder, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.

Step 2

Place the chicken in a 6-quart slow cooker and cover with the hoisin mixture, then toss the drumsticks to coat. Cook on low until the chicken is very tender when pierced with a knife and the sauce is thickened slightly, about 4 hours. Remove the drumsticks and sauce to a bowl, top with the scallions and serve with rice.