Lemon Garlic Chicken
Bright, bold, and unbelievably easy, this Lemon Garlic Chicken brings zippy citrus and savory garlic to your slow cooker for a delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Lean protein that stays tender with careful cook time.
- 2 tbsp Olive oil Carries lemon and garlic flavors and adds moisture.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced The savory backbone of Lemon Garlic Chicken.
- 2 large Juice and zest of lemons Zest gives fragrant citrus oils; juice adds tang.
- 1 tbsp Dried oregano Classic Mediterranean herb that loves lemon.
- 1 tsp Dried thyme Earthy note that rounds the sauce.
- 1 tsp Salt Lifts every flavor.
- 1/2 tsp Pepper Lifts every flavor.
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped Fresh pop of green and a clean finish.
- 2 slices Optional lemon slices Release gentle citrus oils during cooking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Lightly oil a 5 to 6 quart slow cooker. Pat the chicken dry for better seasoning.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer. Pour the lemon mixture over the top and turn to coat. Add optional lemon slices on top.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on Low for 2 to 3 hours, or until the thickest breast reaches 165°F. Avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.
- Optional: Transfer chicken to a plate and tent with foil. Stir 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water, whisk into the cooking juices, cover, and cook on High for 10 to 15 minutes until slightly thickened.
Serving
- Return chicken to the pot or slice and spoon sauce over the top. Shower with chopped parsley. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
Notes
Pat chicken dry for seasoning to stick and to keep moisture inside. Use zest for lemon flavor without excess acidity. Cook on Low, checking early at the 2-hour mark. Rest chicken for 5 minutes before slicing to keep juices in. If sauce tastes sharp, whisk in 1 teaspoon honey.