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Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken
Slow cooking is a fantastic way to infuse flavor into meat while keeping preparation simple. One standout dish that exemplifies this is Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken. Imagine arriving home to a fragrant dish that’s not only tender but also bursting with the zesty brightness of lemon and the earthy notes of herbs. This dish is my go-to for busy weeknights or even cozy family dinners. It’s a meal that brings comfort without the fuss, allowing you more time to unwind and enjoy life.
Why You’ll Love Making It
This recipe checks all the boxes! First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy parents or anyone wanting a home-cooked meal without the extra effort. Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you go about your day.
But convenience isn’t the only reason to love this dish. Lemon Herb Chicken is a crowd-pleaser, with its vibrant flavors appealing to both kids and adults alike. Whether served on a chilly evening or during a casual gathering, it’s versatile enough to make any meal special. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, relying on pantry staples and fresh ingredients you can usually find without any hassle.
"This chicken is a winner! So tender and flavorful, my family asks for it every week!" – Happy Home Cook
Your Easy Cooking Guide
Preparing Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken is a breeze. Here’s a quick outline of the steps you’ll be undertaking:
- Combine the flavorful sauce ingredients.
- Add chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well coated.
- Cook low and slow for maximum tenderness.
- Shred the chicken and mix it back in the sauce.
- Serve over rice for a delightful meal.
With minimal steps and uncomplicated ingredients, it’s truly a set-it-and-forget-it recipe, designed for those who value both convenience and taste.
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Gather Your Ingredients
To create this delectable dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Feel free to swap out the herbs if you prefer! Fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can also work wonderfully for a different flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Directions
- In your slow cooker, mix together the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, oregano, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are coated well with the mixture.
- Cover and cook: for low heat, 6-7 hours; for high heat, 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken and stir it back into the sauce.
- Serve the lemon herb chicken over fluffy cooked rice and garnish with fresh parsley.
Best Way to Serve
The beauty of Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken lies in its versatility. Serve it over a bed of fluffy cooked rice, allowing the citrusy sauce to soak in. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try it on a salad instead. Grains, like quinoa or couscous, also make a fantastic base. Add steamed vegetables on the side or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
If you’re entertaining, consider turning it into a mini buffet, allowing guests to assemble their plates their way. With fresh herbs and a sprinkle of feta cheese added, it can feel restaurant-worthy!
Keeping Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken Fresh Longer
To enjoy this dish over several meals, storing it properly is key. Once it has cooled, store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure to do so gently to maintain the chicken’s moisture—a microwave or stovetop on low works well.
Expert Advice
For the best results, consider searing the chicken breasts briefly before adding them to the slow cooker. This will add a nice depth of flavor. Alternatively, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still achieve a delicious meal.
You can also adjust the seasoning to your liking. For a bit of heat, try adding a dash of red pepper flakes, or for extra zing, a splash of white wine can elevate the sauce beautifully.
Flavor Variations
This recipe is fantastic as it is, but there are plenty of ways to switch it up. Replace the oregano and thyme with fresh dill for a Mediterranean twist or add a tablespoon of honey for a sweet flavor profile. For a spicy kick, a dash of cayenne pepper can enliven the dish.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Preparation is quick; you’ll need about 10 minutes to assemble everything. Just set it in the slow cooker and let it do the work!
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure to extend the cooking time by an hour or so, as they will take longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, vegetable broth or even water can work, but chicken broth really enhances the flavor.
With its simple preparation, fantastic flavors, and versatility, Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your collection. Dig in and enjoy the delightful taste of a home-cooked meal effortlessly!
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Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken
- Total Time: 370 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A tender and flavorful slow-cooked chicken dish infused with lemon and herbs, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- In your slow cooker, mix together the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, oregano, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are coated well with the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken and stir it back into the sauce.
- Serve the lemon herb chicken over fluffy cooked rice and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
For added flavor, consider searing the chicken briefly before adding to the slow cooker. You can also customize the herbs and add spices to your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: slow cooker, lemon herb chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal, family-friendly



