If you’re looking for a straightforward, flavorful chicken dish that practically cooks itself, this Savory Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken is your ticket. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe brings together citrusy brightness and herbaceous depth, all while your slow cooker does the heavy lifting.
The star of the show is the whole chicken. It’s a versatile protein that absorbs all the wonderful flavors during cooking. Lemons not only add a refreshing zest but also help tenderize the chicken from the inside. Olive oil ensures a crisp skin and keeps the meat moist. The combination of dried oregano and thyme brings a Mediterranean touch, while garlic powder adds an essential savory depth. A touch of salt and black pepper rounds everything out, enhancing each ingredient’s natural essence. Chicken broth acts as both a cooking medium and flavor booster. Finally, onions, carrots, and celery create a savory bed for the chicken and soak up all the drippings, turning into delicious accompaniments.
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a light quinoa salad. The carrots and celery cooked with the chicken double as a delicious side dish, absorbing all those incredible flavors. Add a crusty baguette to mop up the delightful juices.
Start by rinsing and patting dry your whole chicken. This step is crucial as it helps the seasoning adhere better to the skin. Rub the entire chicken with olive oil. This acts as a glue for the herbs and spices and aids in browning. Season generously with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and garlic powder. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies for even flavor distribution.
Next, slice your lemons and place about half inside the cavity of the chicken. This infuses the meat with a subtle citrus aroma. In your slow cooker, arrange onions, carrots, and celery to form a flavor bed and pour in the chicken broth. This will help cook the vegetables while keeping the chicken moist.
Place your seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables. Arrange the remaining lemon slices around the chicken for extra zing. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for 6 to 8 hours. Your kitchen will fill with an incredible aroma, and you should avoid peeking too often to keep the heat consistent.
Once done, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This is crucial for safety and ensures the meat is cooked through. Carefully remove the chicken and vegetables from the slow cooker. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before carving, allowing the juices to redistribute.
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