There’s something about the combination of lemon and garlic that makes any dish taste fresh, vibrant, and comforting all at once.
I remember the first time I made this crockpot lemon garlic chicken—I was craving something light but still hearty, and the results blew me away. The slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a juicy, fall-apart chicken bathed in a buttery, citrus-infused sauce that’s both tangy and savory.
With minimal prep and hands-free cooking, this dish is perfect for busy days when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it over rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a meal that feels elegant but requires almost no effort.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you love bold flavors and effortless meals, this lemon garlic chicken is a must-try. The slow cooker works its magic, making the chicken juicy and tender while infusing it with bright citrusy notes.
- Vibrant & Flavorful – The mix of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and a hint of butter creates a sauce that’s light yet deeply satisfying.
- Minimal Effort, Maximum Reward – Just set it and forget it—no need to babysit the stove.
- Versatile & Meal Prep Friendly – Serve it over pasta, rice, or vegetables, and use leftovers for wraps, salads, or sandwiches.
- Balanced & Fresh – Unlike heavy cream-based dishes, this one feels light but still rich in flavor.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you need an easy weeknight dinner or a meal that feels special, this one always delivers.
The Secret Behind the Best Lemon Garlic Chicken
What makes this dish special is how the lemon, garlic, and butter blend together while the slow cooker does all the work. As the chicken cooks low and slow, the citrus juices penetrate the meat, making it incredibly tender.
Meanwhile, the garlic softens and mellows, adding richness without overpowering. The result? A beautifully balanced dish that’s bright, savory, and irresistible.
Key Ingredients That Bring It All Together
With just a few simple ingredients, this dish delivers big flavors. Here’s what makes it shine:
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Thighs are extra juicy, but breasts work well too.
- Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest – Provides a tangy brightness that lifts the entire dish.
- Garlic – Adds depth and richness, mellowing as it slow cooks.
- Butter – Creates a smooth, silky sauce with a hint of indulgence.
- Chicken Broth – Enhances the flavors while keeping the chicken moist.
How to Make Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken
This recipe couldn’t be easier—just toss everything in and let the slow cooker do the rest.
- Layer the Chicken – Place the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring an even layer for cooking.
- Mix the Sauce – In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, melted butter, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Pour over the chicken.
- Slow Cook to Perfection – Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional) – If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it into the slow cooker. Let it cook for another 10-15 minutes.
- Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with fresh parsley or lemon slices. Serve over pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Each bite is bursting with citrusy, garlicky goodness, making this dish one you’ll want to make on repeat.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Garlic Chicken
A great main dish deserves the perfect side. Here are the best options to complement the bright, garlicky flavors:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Garlic Butter Rice | Absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully. |
| Lemon Herb Pasta | A simple pasta dish enhances the citrusy notes. |
| Roasted Asparagus | A crisp, fresh contrast to the juicy chicken. |
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy and comforting, balancing the brightness of the dish. |
| Steamed Green Beans | A light and healthy side that pairs well. |
| Crusty Bread | Perfect for soaking up the lemon garlic sauce. |
| Greek Salad | A refreshing side with feta, cucumbers, and tomatoes. |
Storage & Reheating Instructions
This dish is perfect for leftovers, and the flavors develop even more overnight.
How to Store Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Let it cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat with a splash of broth or butter to keep it moist.
- Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Slow Cooker: Place on LOW for 1-2 hours, adding extra lemon juice for freshness.
Tips for the Best Lemon Garlic Chicken
To get the most out of this dish, keep these tips in mind:
- For extra depth, sear the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for the best flavor.
- If using chicken breasts, reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent dryness.
- Want a richer sauce? Stir in an extra tablespoon of butter before serving.
- Add red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat.
FAQs About Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken
1. Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes! Bone-in, skin-on thighs add even more flavor. Just increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes.
2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for olive oil, and it will still be just as flavorful.
3. What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
A cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water) will create a thicker consistency.
4. Can I make this on the stovetop instead?
Yes! Sauté the garlic and chicken in a pan, then simmer with the lemon sauce for about 20 minutes.
5. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is always best, but bottled can work in a pinch—just reduce the amount slightly, as it’s more concentrated.
Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken
Equipment
- Slow Cooker For cooking the chicken to tender perfection
- Mixing Bowl For preparing the lemon garlic sauce
- Whisk For combining the sauce ingredients
- Wooden Spoon For stirring the sauce in the slow cooker
Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
- 2 lemons juiced and zested
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons butter melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker in a single layer.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, melted butter, and chicken broth.
- Pour the lemon garlic sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.
- Optional: If a thicker sauce is desired, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the slow cooker. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for the best taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
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