When your taste buds are calling for something bright, fresh, and comforting, this Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken answers with zest. It’s a citrusy, herb-kissed meal that transforms simple chicken breasts into a dish bursting with flavor. And the best part? Your slow cooker does all the work. If you love an easy meal that’s light but satisfying, this is your new weeknight go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken

This dish is everything a good zesty chicken recipe should be: juicy, fragrant, and infused with lemon, garlic, and herbs. It’s low effort, high reward—perfect for busy days when you want something delicious waiting for you at dinnertime. Serve it with rice, salad, or couscous, and you’ve got a crockpot chicken masterpiece that feels both wholesome and elegant.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
¼ cup olive oil (60 ml)
4 garlic cloves, minced
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Optional: Lemon slices for serving

How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken

Mix the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, zest, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add to slow cooker: Place chicken breasts in the crockpot and pour the lemon-garlic mixture over the top.
Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Garnish and serve: Spoon some of the lemony juices over the chicken before serving. Top with fresh parsley and lemon slices if you like.

Tips for Flavorful Lemon Herb Chicken

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
Add a few lemon slices into the crockpot for an extra citrus punch.
Prefer dark meat? Thighs work beautifully in this recipe too.
For a touch of richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter just before serving.

A Fresh Take on Dinner

This recipe came from one of those “clean out the fridge” moments. I had lemons, garlic, and chicken—thankfully, that’s all I needed. The result was so flavorful and juicy that it became a staple in our meal rotation. It’s that perfect blend of simple and special, especially on those days when you want a break from heavier meals.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your lemon garlic chicken with white or wild rice to soak up the citrusy juices. Roasted veggies, a crisp green salad, or couscous also make great sides. For a cozy comfort option, serve over mashed potatoes with an extra drizzle of that lemony broth.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep it juicy. This dish also freezes well—just thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs About Lemon Garlic Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs are flavorful and stay extra juicy.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Add baby potatoes, green beans, or carrots into the slow cooker for a complete one-pot meal.

What if I don’t have fresh lemons?

Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but fresh zest really lifts the flavor.

Can I make it ahead?

You can prep everything the night before and store it in the fridge. Just place the bowl in the cooker the next day and start cooking.

A Bright, Herbaceous Dinner Made Easy

This Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken is proof that simplicity can be delicious. With bold citrus, earthy herbs, and juicy, tender chicken, it’s a fresh take on lemon herb chicken that’s both light and comforting. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a low-key gathering, this dish delivers sunshine in every bite.

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