Crock Pot Lemon Herb Chicken

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 7 hours
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you’re looking for a comforting, homey meal that practically cooks itself, look no further than this Crock Pot Lemon Herb Chicken. With tender, juicy chicken thighs and bright, zesty flavors, it’s a perfect dish for any day of the week.

Ingredients for Crock Pot Lemon Herb Chicken

Chicken thighs are the star of the show here, offering rich flavor and tenderness that stands up well to slow cooking. Lemon slices and lemon zest add a bright, tangy punch that complements the savory notes of the chicken. Garlic brings that aromatic depth we all love, while onion adds a subtle sweetness. Dried thyme and dried rosemary are the herbs of choice, lending a classic, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with lemon. Chicken broth keeps everything moist and helps meld the flavors together. Finally, a little salt and pepper rounds out the seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors without overshadowing them.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours, though low and slow is best for tenderness.
  • For a richer flavor, sear the chicken thighs in a skillet before placing them in the crock pot.
  • Use fresh herbs if you have them on hand for an even brighter taste.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. Consider serving it over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful juices. A crusty bread on the side wouldn’t hurt either!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but keep in mind that breasts can dry out more easily than thighs. Check for doneness around the 5-hour mark.
How long does this dish keep in the fridge?
It should last about 3-4 days in the fridge. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.

Crock Pot Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

Start by placing the 2 lbs of chicken thighs at the bottom of your crock pot. This gives them direct contact with heat, ensuring they cook evenly and become tender. Next, layer the lemon slices and lemon zest over the chicken. The zest is where the lemon's essential oils live, so it’s crucial for that intense citrus flavor.

Sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped onion evenly over the chicken. Don’t worry about getting it perfect; they’ll work their magic as they cook. Then, add your dried thyme and rosemary. These herbs are quite potent, so a teaspoon each is just right.

Pour the half cup of chicken broth over all the ingredients. This will create a gentle steaming effect, keeping everything moist and flavorful. Season with salt and pepper to taste; remember, you can always add more salt later if needed.

Cover your crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours. This low and slow method ensures the chicken becomes incredibly tender, soaking up all those lovely flavors. Once it’s done, uncover the pot and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This short rest allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy and delicious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • You can toss it in the crock pot in minutes and forget about it until dinner time.
  • It’s a healthy, flavorful meal that doesn’t require a ton of ingredients.
  • The lemon and herbs create a refreshing profile that’s not overpowering.
  • It’s perfect for meal prep and can easily be doubled for extra servings.

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken thighs
1 lemon, sliced
1 tsp lemon zest
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, chopped
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1/2 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Begin by placing the chicken thighs in the bottom of the crock pot.
2. Add the lemon slices and lemon zest over the chicken.
3. Sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped onion evenly over the chicken.
4. Add dried thyme and dried rosemary.
5. Pour the chicken broth over all the ingredients, then season with salt and pepper.
6. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
7. Uncover and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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