Description

Craving a bright, flavorful meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with zesty goodness? Look no further than Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken! This dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts infused with a vibrant lemon-garlic marinade, enhanced by fragrant herbs. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, making it a perfect choice for busy days when you want a wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired dinner

Ingredients

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (4): Lean and tender, perfect for slow cooking.
- Substitution: Chicken thighs for juicier results, or tofu for a vegetarian option (adjust cooking time).
Olive Oil (¼ cup): Forms the base of the marinade, adding richness.
- Substitution: Avocado oil or melted butter for a different fat.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with warm, savory depth.
- Substitution: 1 tsp garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
Lemons (Juice and zest of 2): Provides bright, tangy flavor and aroma.
- Substitution: ¼ cup bottled lemon juice (no zest) or lime juice for a different citrus note.
Dried Oregano (1 tsp): Adds earthy, Mediterranean flair.
- Substitution: Fresh oregano (1 tbsp) or dried Italian seasoning.
Dried Thyme (1 tsp): Brings warm, herbal notes.
- Substitution: Fresh thyme (1 tbsp) or dried rosemary.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
- Substitution: Sea salt or low-sodium options for dietary needs.
Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Substitution: Cilantro, chives, or no garnish.
Optional: Lemon Slices (for serving): Enhances presentation and adds extra citrusy flair.
- Substitution: Orange slices or omit.

Why They’re Important: The chicken is the protein-packed base, the lemon and garlic create a zesty, aromatic marinade, and the herbs add Mediterranean depth. Parsley and lemon slices elevate the dish with a fresh, polished look.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together ¼ cup olive oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, the juice and zest of 2 lemons, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried thyme, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper until well combined.
Taste the marinade and adjust with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
- Tip: Zest the lemons before juicing for easier prep, and use a microplane for fine zest.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

Place 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer.
Pour the lemon-garlic marinade over the chicken, ensuring each breast is fully coated. Use tongs to turn the chicken if needed.
- Tip: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the fridge for 1-2 hours before cooking, but this is optional.

Step 3: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Check the chicken at the lower end of the time range to avoid overcooking; breasts should be juicy, not dry.
- Tip: Spoon the marinade over the chicken halfway through if possible, but avoid lifting the lid too often.

Step 4: Serve

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place on a serving platter or plates.
Spoon some of the cooking juices over the chicken for extra flavor and moisture.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and optional lemon slices for a vibrant presentation.
- Tip: For a thicker sauce, simmer the cooking juices in a saucepan with 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water for 5 minutes, then drizzle over the chicken.