Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken

Ever since I discovered the Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken, it has become a staple in my kitchen. There’s something magical about coming home to the enticing aroma of tender chicken infused with zesty lemon and savory spices. I remember the first time I made it; the sun was setting, and the house filled with warmth and comfort. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy Sundays with family. The best part? It practically cooks itself while you go about your day. Just throw in some ingredients, set the slow cooker, and let it work its magic!

Each bite of the Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken bursts with flavor, thanks to the delicious blend of fresh ingredients. The chicken emerges succulent and juicy, infused with the bright notes of lemon and the savory depths of Italian dressing mix. I love how versatile this dish is; it pairs beautifully with rice or steamed vegetables, creating a complete meal that everyone adores.

One of my favorite moments is when I lift the lid off the slow cooker and see the chicken glistening in its sauce. The capers add a unique touch, providing a burst of tanginess that elevates the dish to a whole new level. Plus, it’s such a simple recipe that even novice cooks can master it. I often find myself sharing this recipe with friends, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Ingredients to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken

This Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken recipe features a few simple ingredients that work wonders together. The fresh lemon juice adds brightness, while the Italian dressing mix provides a rich depth of flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a delightful dish.

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish! They become tender and juicy after slow cooking.
• 1 (0.6-oz) packet Italian dressing mix: This adds a burst of flavor and seasoning to the chicken.
• 2 Tbsp butter: For richness and moisture, enhancing the chicken’s flavor.
• ¼ cup lemon juice: Freshly squeezed if possible, it brightens the dish beautifully.
• ½ cup chicken stock: Keeps everything moist and full of flavor.
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed: Adds aromatic depth to the dish.
• 3 Tbsp capers, drained: Provides a unique tanginess that complements the chicken.

Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken Instructions

Cooking the Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time.

1. Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil to the pan. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear for about two minutes on each side until they develop a lovely golden color. This step locks in the juices and adds flavor.
2. Once the chicken is nicely browned, transfer it to your 6-qt slow cooker. It’s okay if it’s not cooked through yet; it will finish cooking in the slow cooker.
3. Next, sprinkle the Italian dressing mix evenly over the chicken. This will infuse the dish with a fantastic savory flavor.
4. Now it’s time to add the remaining ingredients. Place the crushed garlic, butter, drained capers, fresh lemon juice, and chicken stock into the slow cooker. Make sure everything is spread out evenly.
5. Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low heat for six hours. During this time, the flavors will meld, and the chicken will become incredibly tender.
6. After six hours, check the chicken for doneness. It should be tender and easily shredded with a fork. The juices should be bubbling and fragrant. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
7. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps to keep it juicy!
8. Serve the Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken over rice or alongside your favorite vegetables. Spoon some of the sauce over the top for extra flavor.
9. Enjoy the deliciousness of your hard work! This recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Customization Ideas

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to customize the Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Vegetables: Add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the slow cooker for a one-pot meal.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be added for extra flavor just before serving.
• Spice it up: For a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken, there are countless possibilities. Here are some ideas to make your meal unforgettable:

• Over Rice: Serve the chicken over fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.
• With Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or a mixed vegetable medley for a well-rounded dinner.
• As a Wrap: Shred the chicken and serve it in a wrap with fresh veggies for a light lunch.
• On a Salad: Use the chicken as a protein boost in a fresh garden salad, drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
• For a Crowd: This dish is perfect for gatherings; you can easily double the recipe and serve it at parties or potlucks.
• Seasonal Pairings: Consider serving with seasonal sides like roasted squash in the fall or fresh corn in the summer.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken is a delightful dish that combines convenience with incredible flavor. It’s perfect for busy nights or family gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. I encourage you to try making this recipe; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, this Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken is a zesty and savory dish that cooks itself. With tender chicken and bright lemon flavors, it’s the perfect easy weeknight dinner. You’ll want to make it again and again!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 335

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet Italian dressing mix
• 2 Tbsp butter
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• ½ cup chicken stock
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 3 Tbsp capers, drained

Equipment

• 6-qt Slow Cooker
• 10-inch Skillet

Method

 

1. Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil to the pan. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear for about two minutes on each side until they develop a lovely golden color. This step locks in the juices and adds flavor.
2. Once the chicken is nicely browned, transfer it to your 6-qt slow cooker. It’s okay if it’s not cooked through yet; it will finish cooking in the slow cooker.
3. Next, sprinkle the Italian dressing mix evenly over the chicken. This will infuse the dish with a fantastic savory flavor.
4. Now it’s time to add the remaining ingredients. Place the crushed garlic, butter, drained capers, fresh lemon juice, and chicken stock into the slow cooker. Make sure everything is spread out evenly.
5. Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low heat for six hours. During this time, the flavors will meld, and the chicken will become incredibly tender.
6. After six hours, check the chicken for doneness. It should be tender and easily shredded with a fork. The juices should be bubbling and fragrant. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
7. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps to keep it juicy!
8. Serve the Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken over rice or alongside your favorite vegetables. Spoon some of the sauce over the top for extra flavor.
9. Enjoy the deliciousness of your hard work! This recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Notes

• You can use any chicken that you have on hand: Boneless or bone-in chicken both work fine.
• Frozen chicken works well: You can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe.
• Skipping the browning: You can skip browning the chicken if you’re short on time.
• Do NOT make the dressing: Just use the seasoning packet from the Italian dressing mix.
• Cooking on HIGH: You can cook the chicken on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours in the slow cooker.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave.

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Meet Piper Cross

I am obsessed with using fresh, seasonal produce to make meals shine. I believe a squeeze of citrus or a handful of herbs can change everything. I cooked and photographed this dish with a focus on vibrant colors and natural textures, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes when you make it.