Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
This Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken is my definition of a weeknight dinner hero: bright, savory, and impossibly easy to assemble, yet it tastes like something you’d order at a charming Mediterranean bistro. Juicy chicken simmers away with a punchy blend of lemon, garlic, and herbs, all mingling together in a luscious sauce that begs to be spooned over everything. Whether you’re set on a wholesome family meal or just need something fuss-free and flavorful, this dish ticks all the boxes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken is that it relies on simple, honest ingredients, each one bringing its own unique magic. From fresh citrus to fragrant herbs, these kitchen staples create a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant—proof that you don’t need a long list to create something memorable.
- Chicken Breasts (or Thighs): Use boneless, skinless for ultra-tender results that soak up all the flavors.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is key here, giving the sauce its signature tang and brightness.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps carry the citrus and garlic flavors evenly throughout the chicken.
- Garlic: Four cloves minced means you get a deep, mellow sweetness rather than just bite; don’t skimp!
- Dried Oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that gives earthy, aromatic notes to the sauce.
- Thyme: Its subtle woodsy flavor pairs beautifully with lemon and garlic.
- Salt: Essential for rounding out all the flavors and making the natural juices sing.
- Black Pepper: Just the right amount of warmth and depth.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a gentle heat that perks up the whole dish—add to taste.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Keeps the chicken juicy and helps create a sauce you’ll want to drizzle everywhere.
- Lemon Slices (for garnish): They add a pop of color and an extra layer of fresh citrus aroma.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional): A handful of this at the end wakes up the whole plate with a bright herbal finish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
Step 1: Arrange the Chicken
Start by laying your chicken breasts or thighs in a single layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. This is the perfect foundation for absorbing all those vibrant flavors, ensuring every piece cooks evenly and stays wonderfully moist.
Step 2: Whisk the Marinade
In a small bowl, vigorously whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you’re after a little fire). It’s amazing how this simple blend transforms into something so aromatic—this is the soul of Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken.
Step 3: Pour and Add Broth
Pour your lemony garlic herb mixture evenly over the chicken. Next, slowly pour the chicken broth around, not directly atop, the chicken. This helps keep moisture levels up while letting that zesty marinade really cling to the meat for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Place the lid on your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know your Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken is ready when it’s fragrant, fork-tender, and the juices run clear—look for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Spoon some of the deeply flavored sauce from the bottom of the slow cooker over the chicken. Finish things off with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of chopped parsley, if desired. This extra step makes the dish as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a beautiful garnish! Fresh lemon slices add a fragrant citrusy note right up front, while a scatter of chopped fresh parsley brings color and a clean, green freshness. Together, these finishing touches make the presentation pop and give each plate a chef-y touch that’s well worth the few seconds it takes.
Side Dishes
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken is heavenly alongside a bed of fluffy white rice that soaks up every drop of that lemony sauce, or with roasted potatoes for a heartier meal. Lightly steamed or sautéed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli make a standout pairing, and a simple side salad keeps things bright and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeding a crowd or love leftovers, try shredding the cooked chicken and mixing it with the sauce for pulled lemon garlic chicken. Stuff it into warm pita bread, pile it atop a grain bowl, or spoon it into lettuce wraps for a lighter, hand-held twist. The possibilities truly keep things exciting, meal after meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep really well! Let your Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken cool to room temperature, then transfer pieces and sauce to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days, making weekday lunches or speedy dinners a breeze.
Freezing
To freeze, portion the cooled chicken and sauce into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with the date and you’ll have a delicious, ready-to-heat meal tucked away for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave with a little of the sauce to keep things juicy, or warm everything on the stovetop over low heat until fully heated through. Give the sauce a stir so it’s just as silky and flavorful as the day you made it.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken pieces instead of boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken will add a bit more flavor and richness. Just add an extra 30 minutes to 1 hour of slow cooking time to make sure everything cooks through perfectly.
Is it possible to make Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble all the ingredients the night before and store the crock in the fridge. In the morning, just pop the insert into your slow cooker and start the cooking process—so easy for busy days!
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but if possible, reach for fresh lemons. Fresh juice and zest bring out a brighter, livelier flavor that really makes this Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken shine.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Definitely! Cooking on high for 2–3 hours is perfect if you’re short on time. The result will still be juicy, but low and slow cooking yields a touch more tenderness if your schedule allows.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat. You could even serve with a side of spicy harissa or chili sauce for those who like a good kick!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken enough—it’s one of those foolproof, flavor-packed recipes that instantly earns a spot in your meal rotation. Give it a try, and you just might find yourself making it on repeat whenever you need a delicious, no-stress dinner!
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Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe is a flavorful and easy dish that’s perfect for a busy day. Tender chicken breasts cooked in a lemon-garlic sauce with Mediterranean herbs, this dish is versatile and delicious.
Ingredients
Chicken:
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Lemon Garlic Sauce:
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 4 cloves garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Additional:
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth, lemon slices for garnish, chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Make Lemon Garlic Sauce: Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Pour over chicken.
- Cook: Add chicken broth, cover, and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until chicken is tender.
- Finish: Spoon sauce over chicken, garnish with parsley and lemon slices. Serve with choice of sides.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for extra flavor before cooking.
- Shred chicken for pulled-style option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
