Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken II
This Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken II is an ideal recipe for those who love a “fix and forget” style of cooking. The combination of juicy chicken breasts, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic garlic results in a delightful dish that’s sure to please everyone. Serve it over a bed of rice or alongside a fresh salad for an effortless and delicious meal. Above all, it’s perfect for those busy days when you want to enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal without the fuss.
Yield: 6 Servings
The preparation time for this slow cooker lemon chicken recipe is merely 15 minutes, with a cook time of 3 hours and 15 minutes, summing up to a total of 3 hours and 30 minutes.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup water
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon granules
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions for Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with oregano, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and brown on both sides.
- Transfer the chicken into the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add water, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring to capture the chicken flavors stuck to the skillet.
- Pour the lemon-garlic mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Add the chicken bouillon granules and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 3 hours and 15 minutes.
- Once cooked, serve the chicken warm over a bed of rice or pasta.
Healthier Cooking Option: Steaming for Retaining Flavor
To enhance this dish’s health benefits, consider steaming the chicken instead of using butter. Steaming retains more nutrients and reduces fat content. Additionally, olive oil can be used as an alternative to butter for browning the chicken, adding healthy fats to your diet.
Common Questions About Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
Is It Okay to Put Raw Chicken in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to put raw chicken in a slow cooker. Slow cooking gently cooks the chicken over a longer period, ensuring that it is cooked through thoroughly and retains its natural juices. Therefore, in the case of this recipe, it’s ideal for those preferring hands-off cooking.
Do You Put Lemon Juice on Chicken Before or After Cooking?
Lemon juice is best applied during the cooking process. For this slow cooker lemon chicken recipe, the lemon juice is added at the beginning. This allows it to infuse the chicken as it cooks, imparting a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the garlic perfectly.
Why Choose This Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken?
This slow cooker lemon chicken recipe stands out for its simplicity and flavor. Firstly, it’s a wonderful addition to your meal prep rotation, offering a blend of zesty lemon and savory garlic infused into tender chicken. Additionally, the recipe is versatile. Serve it with rice, pasta, or a side of steamed vegetables for variety.
In Conclusion: A Delightful Addition to Your Recipe Arsenal
In short, this slow cooker lemon chicken recipe is both straightforward and impressive. It’s perfect for those who enjoy delicious meals with minimal effort and maximum taste. Therefore, don’t hesitate to try this recipe and revel in its simplicity and delectable flavor. Share your culinary masterpiece with family and friends, and enjoy the joy of cooking and sharing good food.
