Unveiled: the easiest slow cooker lemon chicken recipe that’ll make you drool
What To Know
- Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- For a more colorful and nutritious dish, add chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the slow cooker along with the chicken.
- Whether you’re craving a quick and easy meal or a comforting dish for a special occasion, this recipe will deliver.
Craving a tantalizing dish that effortlessly combines tangy citrus flavors with tender chicken? Look no further than our delectable lemon chicken recipe for slow cooker. This culinary masterpiece will tantalize your taste buds with its vibrant lemon notes, while the slow cooking process ensures a fall-off-the-bone tenderness that will melt in your mouth.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts, lemon juice and zest, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat.
2. Place in Slow Cooker: Transfer the seasoned chicken to your slow cooker.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth and honey.
4. Cook on Low: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Shred or Slice: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred or slice it into bite-sized pieces.
6. Thicken Sauce (Optional): If desired, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water. Pour the mixture into the slow cooker and stir until the sauce thickens.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the lemon chicken over rice, pasta, or your favorite side dish. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley for a vibrant presentation.
Tips:
- Use a High-Quality Lemon: The lemon juice and zest are crucial for the dish’s flavor. Opt for a ripe, juicy lemon to maximize the citrusy notes.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your preferences.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the chicken during the last hour of cooking to prevent it from becoming dry.
- Add Vegetables: For a more colorful and nutritious dish, add chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the slow cooker along with the chicken.
Variations:
- Lemon-Garlic Chicken: Add 2-3 minced garlic cloves to the seasoning mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
- Honey-Mustard Chicken: Substitute 1/4 cup of honey with 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard for a tangy and savory twist.
- Creamy Lemon Chicken: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a velvety sauce.
Health Benefits:
- Citrus Boost: Lemons are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
- Lean Protein: Chicken breasts are a lean source of protein, essential for building and repairing muscle tissue.
- Reduced Fat: Slow cooking allows the fat to render out of the chicken, resulting in a healthier dish.
Perfect for:
- Weeknight Dinners: This recipe is a breeze to prepare and requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Sunday Suppers: Impress your family and friends with this flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for a leisurely Sunday supper.
- Potlucks and Gatherings: The tangy lemon flavor and tender chicken will be a hit at any potluck or gathering.
The Final Sizzle:
Our lemon chicken recipe for slow cooker is not only delicious but also versatile and nutritious. Whether you’re craving a quick and easy meal or a comforting dish for a special occasion, this recipe will deliver. So gather your ingredients, turn on your slow cooker, and prepare to savor the tantalizing flavors of lemon and tender chicken.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Thaw them completely before seasoning and cooking them in the slow cooker.
Q: How long can I keep the leftovers?
A: Store leftover lemon chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe in an Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then release the pressure naturally for 10 minutes before shredding the chicken.
