Savory Lemon Herb Crockpot Chicken

Name: Savory Lemon Herb Crockpot Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 h
Total time: 7 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 lb whole chicken; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lemon, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 onion, quartered

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 7 hours

🍽 Serves: 6

★★★★★

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If you're in the mood for a comforting, fuss-free dinner that fills your kitchen with the aroma of fresh herbs and zesty lemon, this Savory Lemon Herb Crockpot Chicken is your go-to recipe. Perfect for busy days, this dish requires minimal prep and lets your crockpot do all the heavy lifting.

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Ingredients for Savory Lemon Herb Crockpot Chicken

Whole chicken serves as the main protein, and its size is perfect for feeding a family or having leftovers. The olive oil helps the skin crisp up slightly and allows the seasoning to stick. Lemon, sliced, infuses the chicken with a fresh citrusy flavor, while garlic adds a subtle pungency that complements the herbs. The blend of salt and black pepper enhances the natural flavors of the chicken. Dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano provide an earthy, fragrant aroma that pairs beautifully with the citrus notes. Finally, a quartered onion adds a sweet, savory depth to the overall flavor profile.

Tips & Tricks

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary on top of the chicken before cooking.
If you're pressed for time, you can prep the chicken the night before and refrigerate it until you're ready to start cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature without guessing.
If you prefer crispy skin, finish the chicken under a broiler for a few minutes after slow cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or a light couscous salad. For a green element, consider serving it with roasted Brussels sprouts or a fresh garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette to echo the citrus notes in the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead?: Yes, but adjust the cooking time as they will cook faster. They may not be as juicy as a whole chicken.
What if I don’t have a crockpot?: You can roast the chicken in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?: Absolutely! Use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried, and add them towards the end of cooking.

Savory Lemon Herb Crockpot Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

Start by patting your whole chicken dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving the best texture, as moisture can prevent the oil and seasonings from adhering properly. Once dry, rub the chicken all over with olive oil. This will not only help with the adherence of the seasonings but also contribute to a lovely, slightly crisped finish.

Next, evenly season the chicken with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and oregano. Make sure you rub the seasoning into every nook and cranny — it really makes a difference in flavor. Take your lemon slices, minced garlic, and onion quarters, and place them inside the cavity of the chicken. This step ensures that the flavors permeate throughout the meat as it cooks.

Carefully place your seasoned chicken breast side up in the crockpot. Set your crockpot to cook on low for about 6 to 7 hours. You'll know it's done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about 10 to 15 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is as juicy as possible.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Set-it-and-forget-it simplicity — ideal for busy schedules.
Infused with the fresh, bright flavors of lemon and herbs.
Juicy, tender chicken every time — thanks to slow cooking.
Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor, and zero fuss.

Ingredients

4 lb whole chicken

2 tbsp olive oil

1 lemon, sliced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp dried rosemary

1 tsp dried oregano

1 onion, quartered

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Pat the chicken dry and rub it with olive oil.

2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and oregano evenly on all sides.

3. Place lemon slices, minced garlic, and onion quarters inside the cavity of the chicken.

4. Place the chicken in the crockpot, breast side up.

5. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

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