Name: Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488747H46M31S
Total time: PT-488747H46M31S
Cuisine: American / Comfort
Ingredients: 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs); ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 2 tablespoons butter; ¼ cup water; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon granules (or equivalent stock); 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Tender, juicy chicken gently simmered in a bright lemon-garlic sauce—this slow cooker recipe is the kind of comforting, low-effort dinner I turn to when I want something satisfying without hovering over the stove all evening. Whether I’m using chicken breasts or switching to thighs for extra tenderness, this dish always comes out rich with flavor and deeply aromatic. Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how hands-off this recipe is. After just a few minutes of prep and a quick browning in a skillet, everything goes into the slow cooker to do its magic. The lemon juice adds a fresh tang that pairs beautifully with the garlic and oregano, while the butter adds just the right amount of richness. I also appreciate how adaptable it is—great for meal prep, easy to double, and perfect for leftovers.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons butter
¼ cup water
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chicken bouillon granules (or equivalent stock)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

I start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano, rubbing the mixture over each piece.
Then I melt the butter in a skillet and brown the chicken for about 3–5 minutes on each side until lightly golden.
I transfer the browned chicken to the slow cooker.
In the same skillet, I combine water, lemon juice, garlic, and bouillon. I bring it to a boil to bring out the flavors.
I pour this aromatic lemon-garlic mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
I cover and cook on Low for about 6 hours or on High for around 3 hours.
About 15–30 minutes before it’s done, I sprinkle fresh parsley on top and let it simmer a little longer.
When it’s ready, I serve the chicken hot with the lemony sauce spooned over.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours 15 minutes on High (or up to 6 hours on Low)
Total Time: About 3 hours 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts—they stay even juicier.
If I’m in a rush, I skip the browning step. The flavor is still delicious, just a bit softer.
When I want a thicker sauce, I remove it at the end and simmer it with a cornstarch slurry until it thickens.
For an herby twist, I occasionally add rosemary or thyme along with the oregano.
I’ve even tossed in a handful of capers or olives for a Mediterranean flair.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, I use the microwave or gently warm the chicken on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
It also freezes well—just make sure to cool the chicken completely before freezing, and store it with some of the sauce for best results. I thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How do I keep the chicken from drying out in the slow cooker?

I make sure not to overcook it, especially when using chicken breasts. Cooking on Low for 6 hours or High for 3 is ideal.

Can I make this with bone-in chicken?

Yes, I can. Just adjust the cooking time slightly longer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

What sides go well with lemon garlic chicken?

I usually serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or a crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Steamed veggies or a green salad also pair nicely.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

I can, but I prefer fresh lemon juice for its brighter flavor. Bottled works in a pinch, though.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, I freeze portions in containers with the sauce. It keeps well for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken is one of those recipes I keep coming back to. It’s simple, flavorful, and effortlessly satisfying. Whether I’m cooking for my family or meal prepping for the week, this dish never disappoints. I hope it brings the same comfort and ease to your table as it does to mine.