Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken is a wonderful dish that brings bright and zesty flavors to your table with very little effort. The chicken becomes incredibly tender thanks to the long cooking time, and the lemon and garlic infuse every bite with deliciousness. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests, this recipe offers a delightful combination of taste and ease.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 260
Protein: 30 grams
Carbohydrates: 5 grams
Fat: 14 grams
Fiber: 0 grams
Sugar: 0 grams
Sodium: 350 mg

Why Make This Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken

This Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of lemon juice and garlic not only enhances the chicken’s taste but also provides numerous health benefits. Lemon is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, while garlic can boost your immune system and lower cholesterol levels. Plus, using a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, giving you more time to spend with family or focus on other tasks.

How to Make Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken

Making this dish is straightforward, and the results are incredibly rewarding. Follow these simple steps to enjoy a wholesome meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts
1/4 cup lemon juice
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lemon, sliced
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot in a single, even layer to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 2: Mixing

In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined into a uniform mixture.
Step 3: Cooking

Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Top with lemon slices for added flavor. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Step 4: Finishing

Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. The vibrant colors and aromas are sure to impress!

How to Serve Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken

Serve this delicious chicken with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. It makes a fantastic dish for weeknight dinners, but it’s also elegant enough for entertaining guests. Pair it with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon slices for a refreshing drink.

How to Store Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken

To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken

Customize the Flavor: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic according to your preference. If you love garlic, add an extra clove or two!
Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken after cooking and whisk in a little cornstarch mixed with water, then heat it on the stove or in the crockpot until thickened.
Spice it Up: Add a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat if desired.
Use Chicken Thighs: For a juicier option, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts.

Delicious Variations

Herb Variations: Swap out dried thyme for rosemary or oregano to change the flavor profile.
Mediterranean Twist: Add olives and cherry tomatoes to the crockpot for a Mediterranean flair.
Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just be sure to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours as they’ll take longer to cook through.
What can I use instead of lemon juice?
If you don’t have lemon juice, lime juice or vinegar can work as alternatives, though they will change the flavor a bit.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.
Can this recipe be doubled?
Absolutely! Just make sure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the greater quantity of chicken and sauce.
How can I enhance the garlic flavor?
Consider roasting the garlic cloves before mincing them to get a sweeter, richer flavor.

Conclusion

Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken is an easy, flavorful dish that brings a taste of sunshine to your dinner table. With minimal prep and stunning results, it’s perfect for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a delightful homemade meal with little fuss. Give this recipe a try, and you may find it becoming a go-to favorite for many occasions! Enjoy the bright flavors and tender chicken that will surely impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!

Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken

Author: mia-harper
Total Time: 370 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Paleo

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Description

A tender and flavorful chicken dish cooked in a crockpot with lemon and garlic.

Ingredients

Scale

4 chicken breasts
1/4 cup lemon juice
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lemon, sliced
Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot in a single, even layer.
In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Pour the mixture over the chicken, ensuring they are well coated. Top with lemon slices.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For a juicier option, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts. Customize the flavor by adjusting the amount of garlic.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 360 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Crockpot
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 260
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 75mg