Easy crock pot lemon chicken: the ultimate comfort food
What To Know
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Brown the chicken and make the sauce in the Dutch oven, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our tantalizing lemon chicken recipe for crock pot. This easy-to-follow dish combines juicy chicken breasts with a zesty lemon sauce, creating a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (from 2-3 lemons)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown.
2. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, garlic, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add to Crock Pot: Place the seared chicken breasts in a 5-quart crock pot. Pour the lemon sauce over the chicken.
4. Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve: Remove the chicken from the crock pot and slice into thin strips. Serve over rice or noodles with the lemon sauce.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use fresh lemons: Fresh lemon juice adds a brighter and more intense flavor to the sauce.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey to taste.
- Cook to perfection: The chicken should be cooked through but still juicy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serve with sides: Complement the lemon chicken with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Variations
- Add vegetables: For a more flavorful dish, add diced carrots, celery, or onions to the crock pot along with the chicken.
- Use a slow cooker liner: To make cleanup a breeze, use a slow cooker liner before adding the ingredients.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
Health Benefits
Not only is this lemon chicken recipe delicious, but it also offers several health benefits:
- Rich in protein: Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
- High in vitamin C: Lemons are packed with vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
- Low in fat: This dish is low in fat, making it a healthier alternative to fried chicken.
Final Thoughts
Our lemon chicken recipe for crock pot is a culinary delight that will impress your family and friends. Its vibrant flavors, tender chicken, and ease of preparation make it a perfect choice for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and indulge in this savory and succulent dish today!
Popular Questions
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, be sure to thaw them completely before searing.
Q: How long can I keep the leftovers?
A: Leftover lemon chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a Dutch oven?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe in a Dutch oven on the stovetop. Brown the chicken and make the sauce in the Dutch oven, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
