Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken

This Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken is a tender, flavorful slow-cooked dish made with juicy chicken breasts, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Lightly browned before slow cooking, the chicken becomes incredibly soft and infused with a bright, savory sauce that’s perfect for easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thirds (or chicken tenders)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2–3 tablespoons oil (or butter)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 packet Good Seasons Italian dressing mix
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Lightly coat the chicken pieces in flour, shaking off any excess, and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat until hot.
3. Add half of the chicken pieces and brown on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. Season lightly with salt and pepper while cooking.
4. Remove the browned chicken and repeat with the remaining pieces, adding more oil if needed.
5. Transfer all chicken to the crock pot.
6. Sprinkle the Italian dressing mix evenly over the chicken, then add minced garlic.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice.
8. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 3½ hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple slow cooker recipe with minimal prep
• Bright lemon and garlic flavor in every bite
• Tender, juicy chicken that falls apart easily
• Perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights
• Made with pantry-friendly ingredients
• Pairs well with many side dishes

Tips

• Browning the chicken first adds extra flavor, so don’t skip this step if possible.
• Cut chicken evenly so it cooks at the same rate.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken tender and juicy.
• Stir the sauce gently after cooking if you want to distribute flavors evenly.

Variations and Substitutions

• Creamy Version: Add ¼ cup heavy cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking.
• Herb Upgrade: Add fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary for extra aroma.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless thighs for richer flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

FAQs

Can I skip browning the chicken?

Yes, but browning adds extra flavor and improves texture.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for about 1½ to 2 hours, but low heat gives the best tenderness.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should be tender and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months in an airtight container.

Can I make this without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can bake it covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until cooked through.

Serving

Serve this lemon garlic chicken with:

• Steamed rice or buttered noodles
• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• Fresh salad
• Crusty bread to soak up the sauce

Suggestions

For extra flavor, spoon the cooking sauce over the chicken before serving and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. You can also shred the chicken and use it in wraps, sandwiches, or over pasta for quick meal variations.