Description
This Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken breasts infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic flavors. Perfectly seasoned with oregano and thyme, this fuss-free dish is ideal for meal prep or a comforting dinner, requiring minimal effort and cooking time. Garnished with fresh parsley and optional lemon slices, it pairs wonderfully with rice or a crisp salad.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Optional: Lemon slices for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the lemon-garlic mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts evenly in the slow cooker. Pour the lemon-garlic mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade.
- Cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and optional lemon slices for added zest. Serve alongside rice, a fresh salad, or your preferred side dish for a complete meal.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking if time permits.
- Use chicken breasts of similar size for even cooking.
- Check the chicken for doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- You can add vegetables like carrots or potatoes to the slow cooker for a one-pot meal.
