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Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken

Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken


  • Author: Jonathan
  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken is an effortless, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken thighs cooked slowly in a bright lemon and rich garlic marinade. This juicy, aromatic recipe requires minimal prep and is perfect for busy days, meal prepping, or casual dinners. Its versatile flavor profile pairs well with many sides and can be easily customized with different herbs, spices, and vegetables.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 to 6 skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme or rosemary

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (optional, mixed with cold water)
  • Vegetables such as baby potatoes, carrots, or green beans (optional for all-in-one meal)
  • Chili flakes or smoked paprika (optional for spice)
  • Plant-based plain yogurt or coconut cream (optional for creamy sauce)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help seasonings stick better. Generously season all sides with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
  2. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and your choice of thyme or rosemary. This marinade infuses the chicken with vibrant lemon and savory garlic flavors.
  3. Combine and Slow Cook: Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the slow cooker. Pour the marinade evenly over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
  4. Optional Sauce Thickening: About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, stir in a mixture of the natural gelling agent and cold water if a thicker sauce is desired. This will create a luscious, silky sauce without overpowering the dish.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Confirm the chicken’s internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C). Serve the tender chicken thighs on plates and spoon the fragrant lemon garlic sauce over the top for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Use skin-on chicken to maintain moisture and add subtle flavor.
  • Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavors.
  • Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid frequently to keep an even cooking temperature.
  • Add extra lemon juice at the end for more brightness if preferred.
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, lemon garlic chicken, easy chicken recipe, slow cooker dinner, meal prep chicken, tender chicken, garlic chicken