Slow Cooker Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken

Name: Slow Cooker Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 h
Total time: 7 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 lbs whole chicken; 2 lemons, sliced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp dried oregano; 1 tbsp dried thyme; 1 tsp sea salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup chicken broth

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 7 hours

🍽 Serves: 6

★★★★★

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If you're looking for a hands-off, flavor-packed dinner, this Slow Cooker Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken is your new best friend. It's perfect for those days when you want a meal that's both impressive and effortless. With a burst of citrus and herbs, this chicken is sure to delight your taste buds.

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Ingredients for Slow Cooker Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken

Whole chicken is the star, providing a juicy, flavorful base. The lemons add a bright, zesty punch, both inside and outside the bird. Olive oil helps create a rich marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor. Garlic brings a warm, pungent depth. Dried oregano and thyme lend earthy notes, while sea salt and black pepper season the dish perfectly. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness at the end. Chicken broth keeps everything moist during cooking.

Tips & Tricks

For extra crispy skin, pop the chicken under the broiler for a few minutes after slow cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
If you’re short on time, you can prep the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh, crisp salad. For a comforting meal, serve it alongside buttery mashed potatoes or garlic bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?: Yes, but reduce the cooking time to prevent the breasts from drying out.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?: Vegetable broth or even water with a dash of salt can work in a pinch.
How long can I store leftovers?: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Slow Cooker Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

Start by rinsing your chicken under cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because a dry surface helps the marinade stick better. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, sea salt, and black pepper to form a thick marinade.

Rub this marinade all over the chicken, making sure to get into every nook and cranny. Don't be shy; get your hands in there to ensure even coating. Next, slice your lemons and place them inside the chicken's cavity and tuck some under the skin if possible. This will infuse the meat with citrusy goodness from the inside out.

Now, place the marinated chicken into your slow cooker. Pour chicken broth around the chicken, which will keep it moist and flavorful while cooking. Cover the slow cooker and set it on low. Let it cook for 6-7 hours, and you'll know it's done when the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Let it rest for a few minutes; this helps the juices redistribute, making carving easier. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving to enhance the dish with a fresh, vibrant touch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Packed with vibrant lemon and herb flavors that elevate the chicken.
Simple to prepare and cooks itself while you go about your day.
The slow cooker method ensures juicy, tender results every time.
Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd without stress.

Ingredients

4 lbs whole chicken

2 lemons, sliced

1/4 cup olive oil

6 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp dried oregano

1 tbsp dried thyme

1 tsp sea salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 cup chicken broth

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels.

2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.

3. Rub the marinade all over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly.

4. Place lemon slices inside the cavity of the chicken and under its skin.

5. Place the marinated chicken into the slow cooker and pour chicken broth around it.

6. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

7. Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before carving.

8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

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