Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken

  • Author: Eleanor
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Tender chicken slow-cooked with fresh lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and butter. A zesty, savory, and effortless dish perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–7 ounces each)

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest (from 1–2 lemons)

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme

  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed

  • Optional garnish: fresh parsley, lemon slices

Instructions

  1. Prep chicken: Pat chicken dry with paper towels.

  2. Season: Combine salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and paprika in a bowl. Rub evenly over chicken.

  3. Layer in slow cooker: Place onion and garlic on the bottom. Add seasoned chicken on top.

  4. Add liquids: Pour chicken broth and lemon juice over chicken. Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle lemon zest. Place butter cubes on top.

  5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

  6. Finish: Remove chicken carefully. Stir sauce in slow cooker and spoon over chicken. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor.

  • Lemon zest boosts citrus flavor without extra acidity.

  • Cook on low for juicier chicken.

  • Add ½ cup heavy cream in last 30 minutes for a creamy version.

  • Bone-in chicken may be used—extend cooking time slightly.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
  • Calories: 335 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 680 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 125 mg

Keywords: slow cooker lemon garlic chicken, crockpot chicken, lemon garlic chicken slow cooker, easy chicken dinner

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://eleanorrecipes.com/slow-cooker-lemon-garlic-chicken/