If you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that goes from prep to plate in just four hours, this zesty lemon-herb chicken recipe is your new favorite. A fragrant blend of citrus and fresh herbs infuses the meat as it slow cooks, creating juicy, tender bites that are perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a weeknight treat.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 pounds), patted dry
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions
Before you start cooking, quickly whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This simple marinade coats the chicken with bright flavors and keeps it moist. Then, place the chicken in your slow cooker and pour the chicken broth into the base of the pot—no need to submerge the bird, just enough to keep things juicy. Finally, drizzle the marinade mixture evenly over the chicken.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to high for about four hours. If you prefer to use a meat thermometer to be extra sure, the chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The lemon and herbs work their magic, transforming the chicken into a tender, fragrant centerpiece. If you’d like to crisp the skin, feel free to pop it under the broiler for a few minutes once it’s fully cooked.
Serve warm with your favorite sides—think roasted vegetables or buttery mashed potatoes. The leftover meat also makes delicious sandwiches or quick lunch salads.
This recipe is wonderful for busy folks who want a wholesome meal at the end of the day without juggling pots and pans. It’s also versatile—swap out the oregano and basil for rosemary and thyme, or add extra veggies into the slow cooker for a complete one-pot dinner.
Whether you’re watching your calories or simply looking for a tasty, no-fuss meal, this lemon-herb chicken fits your schedule beautifully and offers comfort in every bite.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
