There’s something magical about coming home to the aroma of a slow-cooked meal wafting through your kitchen. Slow-Cooker Lemon-Garlic Chicken Breast is one of those comforting, wholesome dishes that checks all the boxes. It’s simple to prepare, bursting with zesty lemon and savory garlic flavor, and the chicken is irresistibly tender. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want to enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal without standing over the stove all day. Let’s dive into this recipe step-by-step so you can create a meal that your family will rave about.

Why You’ll Love Slow-Cooker Lemon-Garlic Chicken Breast

• Effortless Cooking: Minimal prep and the slow cooker does all the work.
• Healthy and Flavorful: High in protein, low in fat, and rich in vibrant, tangy flavors.
• Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead, and enjoy leftovers all week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you get started, gather all the ingredients. This ensures you’re organized and makes the cooking process seamless.

Ingredient	Quantity
Olive oil	1 tablespoon
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds total)	4 pieces
Kosher salt	1/2 teaspoon, plus extra
Freshly ground black pepper	1/4 teaspoon, plus extra
Low-sodium chicken broth	1 cup
Freshly squeezed lemon juice	1/2 cup
Garlic	8 cloves, smashed
Unsalted butter (room temperature)	2 tablespoons
All-purpose flour	2 tablespoons
Fresh parsley (optional)	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sear the Chicken

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Liberally season both sides of the chicken breasts with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
• Place the chicken in the hot skillet and let it sear until browned on one side, about 5 minutes.

Tip: Searing the chicken locks in moisture and enhances the flavor.

2. Prepare the Slow Cooker

• Transfer the seared chicken (browned side up) to a 6-quart or larger slow cooker in a single layer.
• Add the low-sodium chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and smashed garlic cloves to the slow cooker.

3. Slow Cook the Chicken

• Cover and cook on the LOW setting for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.

4. Make the Sauce

While the chicken finishes cooking, it’s time to prepare the rich lemon-garlic sauce.

1. In a small bowl, combine the unsalted butter and all-purpose flour. Use your fingers to mix them together until they form a paste.
2. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a serving platter.
3. Pour the liquid and garlic from the slow cooker into a small saucepan.
4. Bring the liquid to a boil over medium-high heat.
5. Whisk in the butter-flour mixture until fully incorporated. Continue whisking and cooking for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.

Serving Your Lemon-Garlic Chicken Breast

• Drizzle the thickened lemon-garlic sauce over the chicken.
• Garnish with fresh parsley leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor, if desired.
• Serve with sides like:
  • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Steamed broccoli or green beans
  • Fluffy white or brown rice

This dish also pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad for a light, balanced meal.

Tips for Success

• Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, organic chicken breasts if possible. This makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Adjust Lemon Intensity: If you prefer a milder lemon flavor, reduce the lemon juice slightly and add more broth.
• Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing caramelizes the chicken’s exterior, giving it a deeper, richer taste.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and garlic are key to achieving that bright, zesty flavor.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 Chicken Breast)
Calories	260
Protein	36g
Fat	9g
Carbohydrates	3g
Sodium	420mg

Common Questions About Slow-Cooker Lemon-Garlic Chicken

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken thighs or breasts work well. Just extend the cooking time by 30 to 60 minutes on LOW for even cooking.

2. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Use the sauté function to sear the chicken, then pressure cook on high for 8-10 minutes, followed by a natural release.

3. What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

You can substitute with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove, but fresh garlic gives a more robust flavor.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to prevent drying out.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes! Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

6. What sides pair best with this dish?

Some great options include roasted vegetables, couscous, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This recipe is not just another chicken dinner. It combines the ease of slow cooking with the sophisticated flavors of a restaurant-quality dish. The balance of bright lemon, savory garlic, and tender chicken makes it a hit every time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, Slow-Cooker Lemon-Garlic Chicken Breast is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Call to Action

Are you ready to impress your family or guests with this simple yet elegant meal? Try this Slow-Cooker Lemon-Garlic Chicken Breast recipe today and let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and dinner will taste even better!

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