Description
This Slow-Cooked Lemon Chicken recipe is a simple and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy boneless, skinless chicken breasts are simmered in a zesty lemon and herb sauce, cooked slowly to tender perfection in a slow cooker. With minimal prep and a hearty, fresh taste, it’s an ideal dish to set and forget while preparing your favorite sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium lemons, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor of the meat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, to build the base of the sauce.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and chicken broth into the skillet with the aromatics. Let the mixture simmer gently for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Prepare in Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the lemon and herb mixture over the chicken to ensure even flavor distribution. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Slow Cook: Cook the chicken on the low heat setting for 4-6 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply into the meat.
- Serve: Once the chicken is done, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve alongside your favorite side dishes and enjoy.
Notes
- For a zestier lemon flavor, add an extra half teaspoon of lemon zest.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth if you’re watching your sodium intake.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to prevent it from drying out; check tenderness at 4 hours.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
