Looking for a foolproof way to whip up a comforting and flavorful chicken dinner with minimal effort? This zesty lemon-garlic slow cooker chicken is a delightful answer. Set it before you leave for the day, and when you return, you’ll be greeted by the tantalizing aroma of tender, juicy chicken steeped in savory goodness.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs (skin removed)
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Begin by patting your chicken thighs dry and sprinkling both sides with salt, pepper, and oregano. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Give each thigh a quick sear—about 2 minutes per side—just until you see a golden hue begin to form.
Transfer the seared chicken into your slow cooker. Scatter the chopped garlic over the chicken, then pour in the chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cover with the lid, set your slow cooker to low, and let it work its magic for approximately 8 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fork-tender and falling off the bone.
If you’d like a slightly thicker sauce, remove the chicken thighs at the end of cooking and simmer the juices on the stovetop with a touch of cornstarch dissolved in water, whisking until it thickens.
Serve these succulent chicken thighs with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a hearty and satisfying meal. Don’t forget to drizzle a spoonful of the lemon-garlic jus over the top—it’s too good to skip!
This dish is perfect for busy folks who still crave a home-cooked feast. The recipe is light, bright, and versatile—add fresh herbs if you like, or use chicken breasts for a leaner take. With simple ingredients and an easy prep, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will make your home smell fantastic all day long.
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.
