If you’re looking for a dish that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, look no further than these Slow Cooker Lemon Feta Chicken Drumsticks. This recipe combines tender chicken with the zesty brightness of lemon and the creamy tang of feta cheese, creating a delightful meal that your family will love. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it, allowing your slow cooker to do all the hard work while you go about your day. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy Sunday dinner, these drumsticks will soon become a favorite in your household.

Top Reasons to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Feta Chicken Drumsticks

Effortless Preparation: Just season the chicken, pop it in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon and feta creates a deliciously tangy profile that elevates simple chicken drumsticks.
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein and flavor, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, salad, or your favorite roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Make Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prepping; simply store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners.

The Ingredient Lineup

8 skinless chicken drumsticks (about 30 oz total): The star of the dish, providing protein and a juicy texture.
Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the chicken.
2 tsp garlic powder: Adds a savory depth to the dish, complementing the lemon and feta.
1 tbsp dried oregano: Brings an earthy, aromatic quality that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
Juice of 1 lemon: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and acidity, balancing the creaminess of the feta.
1/3 cup feta cheese, fresh grated: Provides a creamy, salty finish that enhances the dish.

Hardware & Gadgets

Slow Cooker: The key tool for this recipe, ensuring the chicken cooks slowly and becomes tender.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements to achieve the perfect flavor.
Mixing Bowl: To combine the seasonings and prepare the chicken before cooking.
Serving Platter: For beautifully presenting your finished dish to your family or guests.

Step-by-Step: Slow Cooker Lemon Feta Chicken Drumsticks

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by rinsing the skinless chicken drumsticks under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine kosher salt, fresh ground pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Toss the chicken drumsticks in the seasoning mixture until they are evenly coated.

Step 3: Add Lemon Juice

Squeeze the juice of one fresh lemon over the seasoned chicken, making sure to coat all the drumsticks. This adds a fresh and zesty flavor to your dish.

Step 4: Place in the Slow Cooker

Arrange the seasoned chicken drumsticks in the slow cooker. Make sure they are in a single layer for even cooking.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The low setting is recommended for the most tender results.

Step 6: Add Feta Cheese

During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the freshly grated feta cheese over the chicken. This allows the cheese to melt slightly and infuse its flavor into the dish.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken drumsticks from the slow cooker and place them on a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining juices from the cooker and serve warm.

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

Spring: Serve with a fresh green salad adorned with seasonal veggies.
Summer: Pair with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad for a light meal.
Fall: Complement with roasted root vegetables for a hearty, comforting dish.
Winter: Enjoy with a side of mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to warm you up.

Little Things that Matter

Using fresh lemon juice rather than bottled will enhance the flavor significantly.
Feel free to experiment with other herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a different twist.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
Don’t skip the last step of adding feta; it’s what makes this dish special.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Slow Cooker Lemon Feta Chicken Drumsticks fresh:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving.
You can also freeze the cooked drumsticks for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Common Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken drumsticks instead of skinless?

Yes, bone-in chicken drumsticks can be used, but cooking times may vary slightly; ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta, consider using crumbled goat cheese or even a mild cream cheese for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can season the chicken and let it marinate in the fridge for a few hours or overnight before cooking.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Just portion the cooked drumsticks into containers with your sides for easy grab-and-go meals.

Healthy-ish Favorites

Bring It Home

Slow Cooker Lemon Feta Chicken Drumsticks are a perfect blend of convenience and flavor that makes any meal special. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting friends, or just looking for an easy weeknight meal, this recipe delivers satisfaction with every bite. The tangy lemon and creamy feta transform simple drumsticks into a dish that feels gourmet yet is incredibly easy to prepare. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a meal that will impress everyone at your table. You’ll find yourself making this dish time and time again, relishing in the delightful flavors and the joy of sharing a home-cooked meal.