Lemon Garlic Chicken Made Easy in a Slow Cooker

Introduction

Slow cookers have transformed the way home cooks approach mealtime, providing an effortless way to create delicious, hearty dishes. One such dish that shines in this appliance is Lemon Garlic Chicken. This dish combines the bright, zesty notes of lemon with the aromatic depth of garlic, resulting in a mouthwatering meal that practically cooks itself.

As the chicken simmers away, it absorbs the flavors of the marinade, becoming tender and juicy. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply relax.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions & Preparation

1. In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the lemon garlic mixture over them, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and set it aside. If desired, you can thicken the sauce by turning the slow cooker to high and letting it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.
5. Serve the chicken garnished with fresh parsley, alongside your choice of sides.

FAQs

What can I do if the chicken is dry after cooking?

If the chicken turns out dry, it may have been overcooked. Always check the doneness with a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I scale this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger slow cooker. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time accordingly, as it may take a bit longer.

What if my sauce is too tangy?

If the sauce is too tangy for your taste, you can balance it by adding a teaspoon of honey or sugar to mellow the acidity.

How can I enhance the flavor of the chicken?

Consider adding zest from the lemon before juicing or incorporating additional herbs like rosemary or basil for more complexity.

What if the chicken isn't cooked through after the recommended time?

If the chicken isn't cooked through, simply cover and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes on low until properly done.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes, you can add vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers. Just ensure they are cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor and simplicity to your kitchen. With its minimal prep time and the ability to let the slow cooker do the work, it’s a meal perfect for any occasion.

Enjoy the tender chicken infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite sides for a complete meal. Your family and friends will surely ask for seconds!

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Lemon Garlic Chicken Made Easy in a Slow Cooker

Make Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken with clear steps, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 2 lbs chicken thighs boneless and skinless
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Method

 

1. In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the lemon garlic mixture over them, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and set it aside. If desired, you can thicken the sauce by turning the slow cooker to high and letting it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.
5. Serve the chicken garnished with fresh parsley, alongside your choice of sides.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.

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