Name: Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds); 1 large lemon, sliced; Juice of 1 lemon; 6 cloves garlic, peeled and slightly crushed; 1 large onion, sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh); 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 2 teaspoons fresh); ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color); ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken is a beautifully tender, juicy, and flavorful dish that practically cooks itself. Infused with bright lemon, aromatic herbs, and garlic, it delivers a comforting yet refreshing taste. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe ensures a satisfying dinner with minimal effort.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Sear for Extra Flavor: While optional, searing the chicken before placing it in the slow cooker adds a richer, deeper flavor.
Use Fresh Herbs When Possible: Fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley elevate the dish, but dried herbs work well if that’s what you have.

Layer Ingredients Strategically: Placing onions, garlic, and lemon slices at the bottom creates a natural rack for the chicken, preventing it from becoming too soggy.
Don’t Overcook: Even though slow cookers are forgiving, cooking too long can dry out the chicken. Aim for about 6 hours on low.
Use a Meat Thermometer: For the best results, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part.

Let It Rest: Resting the chicken for 10 minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute for ultimate tenderness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken is a game-changer for home cooks looking for an effortless yet incredibly delicious meal. It’s a dump-and-go recipe, meaning you simply add everything to the slow cooker and let time work its magic. The combination of zesty lemon, garlic, and fragrant herbs creates an aroma that will have your whole house smelling amazing. Plus, slow cooking keeps the chicken wonderfully moist and fall-apart tender. This dish is also incredibly versatile—it pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or even shredded for salads and sandwiches. Whether you’re serving family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this easy recipe will become a favorite.

Yield: Serves 4

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken is tender, juicy, and infused with bright citrus and fresh herbs. A simple, satisfying meal.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 6 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds)
1 large lemon, sliced
Juice of 1 lemon

6 cloves garlic, peeled and slightly crushed
1 large onion, sliced
3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 2 teaspoons fresh)

½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. If desired, remove excess skin for a leaner dish. Season the cavity with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional): Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. This step adds depth to the flavor but can be skipped if you prefer.
Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onions, garlic cloves, and half of the lemon slices in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth.
Season the Chicken: Rub the remaining olive oil all over the chicken. Sprinkle salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and paprika evenly over the surface.

Add Butter and Lemon: Place small butter pieces over the top of the chicken. Stuff the cavity with the remaining lemon slices and extra garlic cloves for enhanced flavor.
Slow Cook: Set the slow cooker to LOW and cook for 6 hours (or HIGH for about 3-4 hours) until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the chicken and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. Spoon some of the flavorful juices from the slow cooker over the chicken before serving.

Enjoy! Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.

Notes

If your slow cooker has a browning function, you can sear the chicken directly in it before switching to slow cooking.
Adding whole carrots and potatoes around the chicken makes for an easy one-pot meal.

Leftovers make great shredded chicken for sandwiches, wraps, or salads.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 536Total Fat 37gSaturated Fat 11gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 23gCholesterol 147mgSodium 709mgCarbohydrates 9gFiber 2gSugar 2gProtein 43g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Chicken: A whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds) works best, but bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts can also be used.
Lemon: Fresh lemon slices and juice brighten up the dish and help tenderize the meat. Avoid bottled lemon juice, as it lacks the same fresh, vibrant taste.
Garlic: Whole cloves infuse the chicken with a rich, savory flavor. Crushing them slightly before adding enhances their aromatic qualities.

Onion: Yellow or white onions add a subtle sweetness that balances the tangy lemon.
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary provide an earthy aroma, but dried versions work well if needed. Parsley is a great finishing touch for a pop of freshness.
Chicken Broth: A small amount of broth prevents dryness and enhances flavor. You can substitute with white wine for a more complex taste.

Olive Oil: Helps create a beautifully golden and slightly crispy exterior if you choose to sear the chicken first.
Butter: A few pats of butter on top add richness and keep the chicken extra moist.

Variations and Substitutions

Spicy Lemon Herb Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a little heat.

Garlic Parmesan Version: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the cooked chicken and add extra garlic for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
Mediterranean Twist: Include kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano for a Greek-inspired version.
Citrus Blend: Try adding orange or lime slices alongside the lemon for a unique citrusy twist.

Bone-In Chicken Pieces: If using thighs or drumsticks instead of a whole chicken, reduce the cooking time to about 4-5 hours on low.
Herb Butter Upgrade: Mix softened butter with garlic, lemon zest, and herbs, then rub it under the chicken skin before cooking.

Storage Options

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing: Shred or cut the chicken into portions and freeze in airtight bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth, or use the microwave in short intervals to retain moisture.