Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken

Learn how to make the classic lemon chicken in the slow cooker. It’s never been easier or tastier!

Set it and forget it! While we know this phrase from the classic rotisserie chicken infomercial of the 90s, it so accurately describes the best feature of slow cookers. And like everyone in today’s busy world, I can certainly use more recipes where I can “set it and forget it”. Bonus points for leftovers that make tomorrow’s lunch the best meal of the week. 

How To Make Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken

Oregano, garlic, and lemon juice make this slow cooker lemon chicken dish memorable with bright flavors and juicy chicken. If you add one extra step to your preparation, the results will increase tenfold. 

All you have to do is brown the chicken in olive oil or butter first to lock in those juices, then let the slow cooker do the rest. If you have an Instant Pot it’s even easier since you can brown the chicken right in it then set the slow cooker feature.

So, here’s the steps. Season, sear, slow cook, and savor. That’s pretty easy, right?

Serving Lemon Chicken

Traditionally Lemon Chicken is served with rice or pasta, but it’s equally good with a big salad and a side of green beans.

If you want a little more lemon on your plate you could make these Lemon Pepper Green Beans or Lemon Broccoli. Don’t forget the crusty bread and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Dinner is served!

Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken

Contributor: Ellie O’Brien

Learn how to make the classic lemon chicken in the slow cooker. It’s never been easier or tastier!

• Author: Ellie O’Brien
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Entrée
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tsp. dried oregano 
• ¾ tsp. salt 
• ½ tsp. pepper 
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil 
• 1 cup low or no-sodium chicken stock 
• 2 Tbsp. lemon juice 
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 
• Fresh parsley 

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Instructions

1. Spray the slow cooker with cooking spray.
2. In a small bowl, mix together oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub mixture over the chicken. 
3. Heat skillet to medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sear 2 chicken until brown – 2 minutes per side. Repeat with the remaining olive oil and chicken. Add chicken to slow cooker. 
4. Mix together chicken stock, lemon juice, and garlic. Pour over chicken. 
5. Cook on low for 3.5 hours. Baste chicken with juices and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Serve with an extra lemon wedge and fresh parsley.

This post originally appeared in October 2017 and was revised and republished in August 2022.