When you’re craving a meal that feels like a cozy hug from home, few dishes rival a slow-cooker chicken breast. Inspired by the comforting warmth found in Taste of Home’s popular lineup of 75 slow-cooker chicken breast recipes, this recipe adds a delicious twist with zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and a subtle kick of garlic. It’s easy to prep, invitingly aromatic, and perfect for family suppers or casual weekend lunches.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for a richer finish)
Instructions
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This quick marinade will infuse the chicken with bright flavor and ensure every bite is truly tender. If time allows, let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
Next, place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker and drizzle any remaining marinade over the top. Carefully pour in the chicken broth around the edges to maintain the flavorful coating on the chicken. If you prefer a bit more richness, add a tablespoon of unsalted butter on top—this step is optional, but it creates a velvety sauce. Cover and cook on low for about 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker, tent with foil, and let it rest for five minutes. Meanwhile, skim off any extra oil from the cooking liquid. This savory, lemony sauce can be reduced on the stovetop if you like a thicker consistency—simply simmer it for a few minutes until it reduces to your desired thickness. Pour this sauce over the chicken when serving, and garnish with an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs or lemon zest for a bright finish.
This recipe is a perfect fit for anyone who adores a flavorful, low-effort meal. The lemon juice and herbs offer a lively burst that keeps things from getting too heavy, making it suitable even for lighter dietary preferences. Try swapping thyme and rosemary for basil or oregano if you feel adventurous, or use white wine instead of chicken broth for a more refined taste.
Whether you’re planning a hearty supper for the whole family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish brings comfort and zest to your table—truly reminiscent of home 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.
