Lemon Chicken Slow Cooked
Juicy slow-cooked lemon chicken with fragrant herbs and a citrusy flavor, perfect for comforting dinners or family gatherings served over fluffy rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry.
- Combine oregano, seasoned salt, and pepper; rub over chicken breasts.
- Brown the chicken in butter over medium heat.
- Transfer the browned chicken to a 5-quart slow cooker.
- Add water, lemon juice, garlic, and chicken bouillon to the skillet; bring to a boil.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours.
- Baste the chicken occasionally during cooking.
- Add parsley during the last 15 to 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve the lemon chicken over hot cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zesty twist, consider adding lemon zest to the seasoning mix. If you need a quicker option, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts, which will remain tender during cooking. For added depth, try substituting fresh garlic with garlic powder or using fresh herbs like thyme along with oregano. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy Au Gratin for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon chicken over hot cooked rice, allowing the flavorful broth to soak in. This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables like broccoli or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness. For a comforting meal, you might also serve it alongside garlic bread or a slice of your favorite bread to soak up the sauce. Consider serving it with Asparagus Divine for a complete dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover lemon chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it gently on the stovetop in a skillet with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Chicken Slow Cooked contains roughly 58 calories, with 3g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1085mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s recommended to thaw them first for even cooking. If you place them directly in the slow cooker, you may need to extend the cooking time by an hour. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Absolutely! Vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added to the slow cooker with the chicken. Just chop them into uniform pieces and add them in step 4 for a complete meal. This will also enhance the flavor of the dish.
What can I substitute for lemon juice?
If you don't have lemon juice, you can use lime juice as an alternative for a similar citrus flavor. Alternatively, a vinegar-based dressing can work in a pinch, but it may alter the taste slightly. Adjust the quantity to your taste preferences when substituting.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).