This easy slow cooker lemon garlic chicken recipe is packed with flavor from garlic, herbs and lemon. Tender, juicy chicken cooked right in the crockpot!
This incredibly flavorful slow cooker lemon garlic chicken is a true set-it-and-forget-it meal. By letting chicken cook low and slow in the crockpot with classic flavors like garlic, herbs and bright lemon, you end up with fall-off-the-bone tender meat in a rich, savory sauce. The simple prep takes just minutes – just rub the chicken with seasoning, arrange in the slow cooker with butter, broth and lemon slices, then let it cook for 6 hours. Minimal effort for maximum flavor! This versatile lemon garlic chicken tastes amazing served over rice, pasta or mashed potatoes to soak up all those delicious cooking juices. It’s sure to become a make-again family favorite.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. It may need to cook a bit longer to reach food safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Is this a keto/low-carb recipe?
A: Yes, with only 3g net carbs per serving, this lemon garlic chicken is keto and low-carb friendly.
Can I make this dairy-free or paleo?
Omit the butter to make this recipe dairy-free and paleo approved.
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, cut into pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 2 tsp jarred minced garlic)
- 1.5-2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Preparation Instructions:
- Make the seasoning mix. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika and Italian seasoning.
- Prepare the slow cooker. Spread the butter pieces evenly over the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Sprinkle in the minced garlic.
- Season the chicken. Pat the chicken dry and rub the seasoning mix all over the chicken pieces.
- Layer ingredients. Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, spreading it out in an even layer. Pour the chicken broth over top. Arrange the lemon slices around and on top of the chicken.
- Cook. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve. Remove chicken and lemon slices from slow cooker and transfer to a serving platter or plates. Spoon some of the cooking juices over top. Enjoy!
Notes & Tips:
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for extra flavor if desired. Adjust cook time as needed.
- Store leftovers refrigerated for 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Substitute other herbs like rosemary, oregano or thyme for the Italian seasoning.
- Let chicken sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Cook on high for 3-4 hours instead of low for quicker prep.
- Serve over rice, pasta or mashed potatoes to soak up the tasty cooking liquid.
Nutritional Information:
(Per 4 oz serving with chicken thighs)
Calories: 370
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 175mg
Sodium: 620mg
Total Carbs: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 37g
