This Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken is a tasty dish that practically cooks itself! With juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant garlic, it’s a winner for any dinner.
Honestly, the best part is just tossing everything in the slow cooker and letting it do its magic. I like to serve it over rice for a cozy meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe, but thighs are a great option for added juiciness. They won’t dry out as easily if cooked too long.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. About 1 teaspoon of garlic powder equals 1 clove if you’re in a hurry.
Lemon: Fresh lemons are ideal for juicing and slicing, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. Use it when fresh lemons aren’t available, but fresh really makes a difference.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps it healthy. If you’re out, vegetable broth or even water can be used, though they may slightly alter the taste.
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme add depth, but fresh herbs can improve the flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs instead of dried.
How Can I Make My Chicken Tender in the Slow Cooker?
Tender chicken comes from cooking it low and slow. The slow cooker works its magic by creating a moist environment that breaks down the chicken fibers. Here’s how to ensure it turns out perfect:
- Keep the chicken in a single layer at the bottom of the cooker – this ensures even cooking.
- Cook on low heat for longer periods for the best tenderness. The low setting for 4-6 hours is optimal.
- Don’t lift the lid while cooking! It releases heat and can add extra cooking time.
- If you want to check for doneness, use a meat thermometer – 165°F is the safe temperature for chicken.
Enjoy your delicious and easy lemon garlic chicken! It’s a great hands-off meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
You will need about 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients. The slow cooker will then do its magic for 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high. Altogether, you’ll have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they’re laid out flat for even cooking.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This will be the flavorful sauce that enhances the chicken.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the garlic-lemon mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. This ensures that all the chicken gets infused with that delicious flavor!
4. Add Lemon Slices:
Take the thinly sliced lemon and arrange them on top of the chicken. This adds a lovely visual touch and contributes extra lemony goodness.
5. Cook It:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
6. Finish It Off:
When the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. Spoon some of the cooking juices over the top to keep it moist and flavorful.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and freshness right before serving. Enjoy it with rice, potatoes, or any side of your choice!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy slow cooker lemon garlic chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to extend the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low, or 30-60 minutes on high until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. It’s best to thaw the chicken first to ensure even cooking if possible.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or water. Keep in mind that using water may result in a slightly less flavorful dish, so try to use broth if you can!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe with Other Proteins?
Absolutely! This recipe also works well with boneless pork chops or turkey breasts. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different proteins may require slight adjustments based on thickness and type.
