Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Lemon Garlic Chicken

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 7 hours
🍽 Serves: 6
Be the First to Review!

If you're looking for a way to effortlessly elevate your weeknight dinners, this Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Lemon Garlic Chicken is a must-try. It's all about juicy, tender chicken infused with fresh herbs and zesty lemon, all cooked to perfection in your trusty slow cooker.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Lemon Garlic Chicken

The star of the show is, of course, the chicken. A whole chicken ensures you get a mix of white and dark meat, making every bite juicy and flavorful. Lemon slices add a bright, zesty note that cuts through the richness of the chicken. Meanwhile, garlic brings in an earthy, robust flavor that enhances the overall taste. Onion acts as a sweet, aromatic base that absorbs all the lovely juices. Seasoning the chicken with salt and black pepper is essential for drawing out the natural flavors. The olive oil helps keep everything moist, while dried thyme and rosemary infuse the dish with a warm, herby aroma. Finally, chicken broth adds depth and helps keep the chicken succulent.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • If you prefer crispier skin, pop the chicken under the broiler for a few minutes after slow cooking.
  • Consider adding root vegetables like carrots or potatoes to the slow cooker for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a warm, crusty bread to mop up those delicious juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in pieces like thighs or breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What if I don't have a slow cooker?
You can roast the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 1.5 hours, or until fully cooked.

Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

Start by giving your chicken a good rinse under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting that lovely, crispy skin. Next, season the chicken all over — inside and out — with salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Be generous; you want those flavors to penetrate every bite.

Slice a lemon and stuff the slices along with the minced garlic into the cavity of the chicken. This will allow the flavors to steam from the inside out. Dice up an onion and spread it across the bottom of your slow cooker. This not only flavors the chicken but also prevents it from sticking to the bottom.

Place your seasoned chicken on top of the onions, breast side up. Drizzle olive oil and pour chicken broth over the top. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it do its magic for 6-7 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.

Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Minimal prep time — just set it and forget it.
  • Aromatic herbs and lemon create a flavor-packed dish.
  • Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
  • Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.

Ingredients

4 lbs whole chicken
1 lemon, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1/2 cup chicken broth

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Place lemon slices and minced garlic inside the chicken cavity.
4. Scatter chopped onion at the bottom of the slow cooker.
5. Place the chicken on top of the onions.
6. Pour olive oil and chicken broth over the chicken.
7. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
8. Carefully remove the chicken and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!