Crockpot Chicken Garlic Lemon

Crockpot Chicken Garlic Lemon is the ultimate easy dinner solution. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked with a flavorful blend of garlic, zesty lemon, and savory herbs, creating a melt-in-your-mouth dish that’s both fresh and comforting. It can be served with your favorite sides or over rice for a simple, wholesome dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken Garlic Lemon

The beauty of this Crockpot Chicken Garlic Lemon recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. The chicken becomes wonderfully tender after slow-cooking in a garlic lemon marinade, while the seasonings and lemon juices infuse the meat with a tangy zest. Whether you’re craving a low-carb dinner, a keto-friendly meal, or just a comforting dish, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

Perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd, it’s versatile, delicious, and quick to serve. Plus, it works wonderfully with side dishes like rice, potatoes, or steamed veggies, making it an ideal go-to weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Crockpot Chicken Garlic Lemon, here’s what you’ll need:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs): These are the base of your dish, and they cook perfectly in the Crockpot.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a bold and aromatic flavor.
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds that essential citrus zing, complementing the garlic beautifully.
• Olive oil: For a smooth, rich texture.
• Chicken broth: This keeps the chicken moist and enhances the flavors.
• Dried thyme: A subtle herb that pairs wonderfully with garlic and lemon.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.

Optional:

• Lemon zest: For extra citrus flavor.
• Fresh parsley: For garnish and added freshness.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Crockpot Chicken Garlic Lemon

Adjust the Cooking Time: The cooking time can vary depending on your Crockpot model and the size of your chicken. Chicken breasts typically cook in 4-6 hours on low, while chicken thighs might take a little longer to reach perfect tenderness.

Don’t Overcrowd the Crockpot: To ensure even cooking, don’t overcrowd the Crockpot. If you’re making a large batch, it’s better to cook in two rounds or use a larger slow cooker.

Add Extra Garlic for a Bold Flavor: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two for a more robust garlic flavor.

Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor: If you prefer bone-in chicken, go ahead and use it! It might take a little longer to cook, but the bones will add richness to the dish.

Control the Lemon Zing: If you’re not a fan of strong lemon flavor, you can reduce the amount of lemon juice or replace it with half lemon and half orange juice for a milder citrus note.

Variations to Try

While this Crockpot Chicken Garlic Lemon recipe is delicious as is, there are a few variations you can experiment with to suit your taste or dietary preferences:

Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño to the marinade to give it a bit of heat.

Herb Variations: While thyme works beautifully in this dish, you can also experiment with rosemary, oregano, or basil for a different flavor profile.

Creamy Version: For a creamy twist, add a few tablespoons of cream cheese or heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir it into the sauce for a velvety finish.

Add Veggies: Toss in some vegetables like carrots, onions, or bell peppers into the Crockpot for a one-pot meal.

Add a Sweet Note: If you prefer a hint of sweetness, try adding a spoonful of honey or maple syrup to the garlic lemon sauce.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Garlic Lemon

Crockpot Chicken Garlic Lemon is versatile and can be served in various ways:

• With Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the savory garlic-lemon sauce.
• In Wraps or Sandwiches: Use the shredded chicken to make wraps or sandwiches, adding fresh veggies and a drizzle of ranch or tzatziki sauce for extra flavor.
• With Roasted Veggies: Pair it with roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or sweet potatoes for a low-carb, healthy meal.
• Over Mashed Potatoes: The creamy, tangy sauce is perfect over a bed of mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

How to Store Crockpot Chicken Garlic Lemon

If you have leftovers (which is always a bonus!), storing them is easy:

• In the Fridge: Let the chicken cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• In the Freezer: To freeze, place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Recipe FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just ensure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking for best results. If you’re using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low.

2. Can I make this recipe without a Crockpot?

Absolutely! You can make it in a regular pot or dutch oven. Just cook the chicken over medium heat for 25-30 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

3. Can I add cream to the sauce?

Yes! For a creamier sauce, add a few tablespoons of cream cheese or heavy cream near the end of the cooking time. Stir it in to create a luscious, creamy texture.

4. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat leftovers in the microwave, or for a more flavorful result, heat in a pan on the stove with a little extra chicken broth or water to keep the chicken moist.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Garlic Lemon is a simple yet delicious recipe that brings together the best of savory garlic and fresh, zesty lemon flavors. Perfect for meal prep, busy weeknights, or just a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. With its ease of preparation and endless variations, it’s a versatile option for those looking to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful meal. Whether served with a side of rice, veggies, or mashed potatoes, this dish is guaranteed to please.

Try these other crock pot chickens:

• Crockpot Chicken Breast
• Crockpot Barbecue Chicken Breast
• Crockpot Chicken And Dressing Casserole