This Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken is a wonderful dish that shines with fresh flavors. Juicy chicken is slow-cooked with zesty lemon and fragrant garlic, creating a yummy meal!
Honestly, the smell while it cooks is just heavenly! I love serving it with rice or steamed veggies. It’s so simple to prepare. Just pop it in, relax, and let the magic happen! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe, but you could also use thighs for more flavor and juiciness. If you have frozen chicken, just add an extra hour of cooking time!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a great flavor. You can substitute it with garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon for each clove) if you’re in a pinch, but fresh is best!
Lemon: Fresh lemons bring bright acidity, but you can use lemon juice from a bottle if that’s what you have. Just use a little less than the recipe states since it can be more concentrated.
Herbs: Dried thyme and oregano work perfectly, but feel free to swap these with Italian seasoning or fresh herbs if you have them on hand!
Chicken Broth: If you’re out of chicken broth, you can substitute with vegetable broth or even water, though broth adds more depth to the flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Tender and Flavorful?
To achieve tender chicken, patience is key! Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become juicy. Here are some tips:
- **Layering:** Start with the chicken at the bottom. Then pour the lemon-garlic mixture on top to ensure it marinates as it cooks.
- **Cook Time:** Keep your slow cooker on low for a longer period (4-6 hours) for the best results. High heat could dry it out.
- **Resting Time:** After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding or slicing. This helps retain moisture!
- **Check Readiness:** Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
These steps will help you serve up a delicious, tender lemon garlic chicken that everyone will love! Plus, it’s perfect to make ahead for meal prep. Enjoy! 😊
Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 4 to 6 hours of cooking time in the slow cooker. Perfect for a busy day, just set it and forget it, and you’ll have a warm meal ready when you’re done with your activities!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. They will soak up all that wonderful lemon and garlic flavor as they cook!
2. Mix the Flavorful Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, juice and zest of the lemon, chicken broth, olive oil, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
3. Pour Over Chicken:
Carefully pour the lemon-garlic mixture over the chicken breasts. Make sure each piece is well coated in the sauce. Cover the slow cooker with a lid.
4. Slow Cook:
Set the slow cooker to low for about 4 to 6 hours. The chicken will become tender and flavorful as it cooks. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high for about 2 to 3 hours, but low and slow really brings out the best flavors!
5. Serve the Chicken:
When the chicken is done cooking, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. Spoon some of that delicious sauce over the top for added flavor. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken hot with your favorite sides. It goes great with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or use the quick method of placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water. If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time by about an hour.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then cook in the slow cooker when you’re ready to eat. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of broth if needed to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve with Lemon Garlic Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides! You can serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Steamed vegetables or garlic bread also complement the flavors nicely!
