Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken

This Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken is a bright, flavorful, and fuss-free meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked with fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs, resulting in juicy meat with a deliciously zesty sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a lifesaver for anyone who wants a healthy, home-cooked meal with minimal effort. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a comforting, flavorful dish that pairs well with rice, pasta, or veggies. Plus, it’s light, citrusy, and family-friendly!

Ingredients

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

• Chicken breasts or thighs
• Fresh lemons (juice and zest)
• Garlic cloves
• Chicken broth
• Olive oil or butter
• Italian seasoning or fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary)
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: cornstarch for thickening the sauce

Directions

this recipe

1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Add the chicken to the slow cooker.
3. Top with minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth.
4. Drizzle olive oil or dot with butter for extra richness.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving.
7. Serve with your favorite sides and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people. Total time is about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.

Variations

• Use bone-in chicken thighs for extra flavor and tenderness.
• Add sliced onions or baby potatoes for a complete one-pot meal.
• Substitute fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a different twist.
• Make it creamy by stirring in a splash of heavy cream before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker?

It’s best to thaw chicken before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Using thighs instead of breasts can help, and avoid overcooking by sticking to the recommended times.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the slow cooker function or cook on high pressure for about 10-12 minutes with a natural release.

What sides go well with lemon chicken?

Rice, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad are all great choices.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Absolutely! Try adding green beans, carrots, or potatoes.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in 30 minutes before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and seasonings.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I make the lemon flavor stronger?

Add extra zest or a few lemon slices to intensify the citrus flavor.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken is a simple, healthy, and satisfying dish that brings bright, fresh flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. It’s perfect for meal prepping, family dinners, or whenever you need a fuss-free meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

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