The aroma of lemon and herbs wafting from your slow cooker is the promise of a delicious and effortless dinner. This creamy lemon herb chicken crock pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep time and delivering maximum flavor. Forget takeout; this recipe is your new go-to for a comforting and satisfying meal.
What Makes This Recipe So Special?
This isn't your average crock pot chicken. We're talking tender, juicy chicken infused with bright lemon zest and herbs, all swimming in a luscious, creamy sauce. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken is fall-apart tender, making it perfect for shredding and serving over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. The recipe is also incredibly versatile; you can easily adjust the herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a vegan option
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken in a Crock Pot:
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear (optional): For extra flavor, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step isn't essential but adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Crock pot magic: Place the seared (or unseared) chicken in your crock pot.
- Flavor infusion: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream (or coconut cream), parsley, thyme, and oregano.
- Pour and cook: Pour the lemon herb mixture over the chicken in the crock pot.
- Slow cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred and serve: Remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir to combine. Serve immediately over your favorite sides.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you'll need to increase the cooking time. Add about 1-2 hours to the cooking time on low or 30-60 minutes on high. Make sure the chicken is fully thawed before serving.
What sides go well with creamy lemon herb chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, including mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, quinoa, or couscous.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, combine everything in the crock pot and cook as directed.
How do I thicken the sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the sauce uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of cold water to the sauce during the last hour of cooking.
What other herbs can I use?
Feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary, sage, or dill. The possibilities are endless!
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the crock pot: Ensure there's enough space for the chicken and sauce to cook evenly.
- Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more lemon juice, salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
- Serve it up: This versatile dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or even a special occasion.
This creamy lemon herb chicken crock pot recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its ease of preparation, incredible flavor, and versatility make it a must-try for any home cook. Enjoy!
