Description
This Slow-Cooker Lemon-Garlic Chicken Breast recipe is an effortless way to prepare a wholesome, flavorful dinner. The zesty lemon juice, savory garlic, and tender chicken come together to create a dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s a one-pot meal that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds total)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for seasoning the chicken
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning the chicken
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
- 8 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken in the skillet and sear until browned on one side, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the seared chicken (browned side up) into a 6-quart or larger slow cooker in a single layer.
- Add the chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and smashed garlic cloves to the slow cooker.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Cover and cook on the LOW setting for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and registers 165°F on an instant-read thermometer.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix the butter and flour together to form a smooth paste.
- Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a serving platter and cover to keep warm.
- Pour the liquid and garlic from the slow cooker into a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Whisk in the butter-flour mixture until fully incorporated, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
- Serve:
- Pour the thickened lemon-garlic sauce over the chicken.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Lemon Flavor Adjustment: If you prefer a milder lemon flavor, reduce the lemon juice to 1/3 cup and add an extra 1/4 cup chicken broth.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Freezer-Friendly: Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely before freezing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American