I love making this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken when I want a light, comforting meal that’s full of fresh flavor with almost no effort. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, infused with lemon and herbs as it slowly cooks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it’s simple, reliable, and perfect for busy days. I can add everything to the slow cooker, walk away, and come back to perfectly cooked chicken. The lemon keeps the dish bright, while the herbs add a cozy, savory balance that never feels heavy.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
olive oil
garlic cloves, minced
lemon juice
lemon zest
chicken broth
Italian seasoning
dried thyme
dried oregano
salt
black pepper
fresh parsley
Directions
I start by lightly greasing the slow cooker and placing the chicken in an even layer at the bottom. I season the chicken with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, thyme, and oregano.
In a small bowl, I mix together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. I pour this mixture over the chicken, making sure everything is well coated.
I cover the slow cooker and cook until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. Once done, I spoon some of the cooking liquid over the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high
Total time: about 6 hours
Variations
I sometimes add sliced onions or baby potatoes to the slow cooker for a complete meal. When I want extra brightness, I add lemon slices on top of the chicken. I also enjoy using fresh herbs instead of dried when I have them available.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I warm the chicken gently and spoon some of the cooking liquid over it to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
I prefer thawed chicken for even cooking, but I can use frozen if I add extra cooking time.
Does the lemon make the chicken sour?
I find the lemon flavor balanced and mild, especially with the herbs and broth.
Can I shred the chicken?
I often shred it right in the slow cooker and use it for wraps, bowls, or salads.
What can I serve with this dish?
I like serving it with rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
I often make it ahead and reheat it during the week, and it stays tender and flavorful.
Conclusion
I enjoy this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken because it’s fresh, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. It’s a dependable recipe I like using when I want a flavorful homemade meal with minimal effort and maximum reward.
Print
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Tender, juicy slow cooker chicken infused with fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs for an easy, light, and comforting meal with minimal prep.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Lightly grease the slow cooker and place the chicken in an even layer.
- Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, thyme, and oregano.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Spoon some of the cooking liquid over the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use thawed chicken for the most even cooking.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried herbs.
- Great for shredding and using in wraps, bowls, or salads.
- Add vegetables like onions or potatoes for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
