Fresh Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
This slow cooker lemon garlic chicken is a simple, flavorful dish perfect for busy families. The combination of tender chicken thighs, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic makes it a family favorite.
Equipment
- 1 slow cooker
- 1 zester
- 1 Mixing bowl medium
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs skin-on, bone-in
- 2 lemons zested and juiced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs. Mince the garlic cloves. Zest and juice the lemons, ensuring only the yellow part is used.
- In a mixing bowl, combine lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Cooking
- Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Pour the lemon mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Sprinkle lemon zest and thyme leaves on top.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- If desired, remove the chicken thighs and transfer the sauce to a small saucepan. Simmer to reduce and thicken before serving over the chicken.
Serving
- Transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Drizzle the thickened sauce over the chicken. Garnish with additional lemon slices and fresh thyme if desired.
Storage
- Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use fresh lemons and garlic for the best flavor. Browning the chicken before slow cooking adds depth to the dish.
Ingredient Substitutions: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but adjust the cooking time.
How to Serve: Serve over rice, pasta, or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, just add them to the slow cooker.
Ingredient Substitutions: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but adjust the cooking time.
How to Serve: Serve over rice, pasta, or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, just add them to the slow cooker.