Name: Slow-Cooker Lemon Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487020H34M51S
Total time: PT-487020H34M51S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 cup chicken broth Juice and zest of 2 lemons 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried rosemary Salt and pepper to taste Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow-Cooker Lemon Chicken is packed with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare. The chicken slowly cooks in a zesty lemon sauce, absorbing all the citrusy goodness. The result is a dish that’s not only tender but also bursting with fresh, tangy flavors. It’s the kind of meal that’s both comforting and refreshing. Plus, with minimal prep time and the convenience of the slow cooker, you’ll have a meal ready to serve with minimal effort.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup chicken broth
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. This step is optional, but it helps to lock in flavor and color.
Transfer the chicken breasts to the slow cooker.
In a small bowl, combine the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Pour the lemon mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and, if desired, shred it using two forks.
Return the chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce. Alternatively, serve the chicken whole with the sauce spooned over it.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. The preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker.

Variations

Add vegetables: You can add vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers to the slow cooker to cook alongside the chicken.
Spicy twist: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the lemon sauce.
Herb blend: Experiment with different herbs such as basil, oregano, or parsley for a flavor twist.
Use chicken thighs: Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a richer, more flavorful dish.
Make it creamy: Add a tablespoon of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese at the end of cooking for a creamy version.

Storage/Reheating

To store: Place any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To reheat: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through. You may need to add a little extra chicken broth to keep the sauce from thickening too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it will take a little longer to cook. Just be sure to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They will cook up tender and juicy, with a slightly richer flavor than chicken breasts.

3. Can I make this recipe without browning the chicken first?

Yes, you can skip the browning step. While searing adds flavor and color, you can still achieve a great result by placing the raw chicken directly into the slow cooker.

4. Can I make this recipe in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can! Use the sauté function to brown the chicken, then add the sauce ingredients and cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally before serving.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe to feed more people, but be sure to check that your slow cooker can accommodate the increased quantity. If you’re doubling the chicken, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

6. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or onions to the slow cooker to cook alongside the chicken for a complete meal.

7. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh herbs will work just as well in this recipe. Use about 3 times the amount of fresh herbs as the dried ones called for in the recipe.

8. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce and store it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the slow cooker or on the stove the next day for an easy meal.

9. How can I make this dish more flavorful?

You can add a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce for added depth of flavor. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese before serving also adds a nice touch.

10. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Slow-Cooker Lemon Chicken is a simple, delicious, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy days or lazy weekends. The combination of lemon, herbs, and tender chicken creates a dish that’s both bright and comforting. With minimal prep time and the convenience of the slow cooker, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to become a go-to in your meal rotation.