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
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (4): Lean and tender, perfect for slow cooking.
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Substitution: Chicken thighs for juicier results, or tofu for a vegetarian option (adjust cooking time).
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Olive Oil (¼ cup): Forms the base of the marinade, adding richness.
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Substitution: Avocado oil or melted butter for a different fat.
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Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with warm, savory depth.
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Substitution: 1 tsp garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
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Lemons (Juice and zest of 2): Provides bright, tangy flavor and aroma.
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Substitution: ¼ cup bottled lemon juice (no zest) or lime juice for a different citrus note.
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Dried Oregano (1 tsp): Adds earthy, Mediterranean flair.
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Substitution: Fresh oregano (1 tbsp) or dried Italian seasoning.
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Dried Thyme (1 tsp): Brings warm, herbal notes.
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Substitution: Fresh thyme (1 tbsp) or dried rosemary.
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Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
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Substitution: Sea salt or low-sodium options for dietary needs.
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Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
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Substitution: Cilantro, chives, or no garnish.
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Optional: Lemon Slices (for serving): Enhances presentation and adds extra citrusy flair.
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Substitution: Orange slices or omit.
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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.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
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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.
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Taste the marinade and adjust with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
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Tip: Zest the lemons before juicing for easier prep, and use a microplane for fine zest.
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Step 2: Prep the Chicken
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Place 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer.
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Pour the lemon-garlic marinade over the chicken, ensuring each breast is fully coated. Use tongs to turn the chicken if needed.
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Tip: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the fridge for 1-2 hours before cooking, but this is optional.
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Step 3: Cook
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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).
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Check the chicken at the lower end of the time range to avoid overcooking; breasts should be juicy, not dry.
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Tip: Spoon the marinade over the chicken halfway through if possible, but avoid lifting the lid too often.
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Step 4: Serve
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Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place on a serving platter or plates.
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Spoon some of the cooking juices over the chicken for extra flavor and moisture.
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Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and optional lemon slices for a vibrant presentation.
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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.
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