Looking for a cozy meal that doesn’t require much hands-on time? This creamy slow-cooker lemon chicken is the perfect fit. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich lemon-garlic sauce ready to serve. Everything comes together in your slow cooker, making it ideal for busy days or relaxed weekend cooking.
This recipe is comforting, simple to make, and always delivers satisfying results. Whether for a casual dinner or a make-ahead meal, it’s a great way to bring delicious flavor to your table with ease.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish brings together creamy comfort with the fresh brightness of lemon. Here’s why it’s a go-to favorite:
It takes just minutes to prep and cooks on its own
The sauce is creamy and rich with a fresh citrus lift
It’s great for leftovers and perfect for meal planning
Ingredients You’ll Need
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (5)
These stay tender and absorb the sauce beautifully during slow cooking. They’re lean and ideal for a lighter meal.
Unsalted Butter (6 tablespoons, divided)
Butter adds richness and helps build the base of the sauce. Dividing the butter allows for layered flavor throughout cooking.
Kosher Salt (½ teaspoon)
Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken without overpowering it.
Ground Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon)
A touch of pepper brings balance and a subtle kick to the creamy sauce.
Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon)
A mix of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that pairs perfectly with garlic and lemon.
Fresh Lemons (2, for juice and zest)
Using both zest and juice gives the dish its signature lemony brightness without bitterness.
Minced Garlic (2 cloves)
Garlic deepens the flavor and makes the sauce more savory and full-bodied.
Half and Half (1 cup)
A blend of milk and cream that adds richness without being too heavy.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon)
Used to thicken the sauce, giving it that creamy, smooth consistency.
Chicken Base (1 tablespoon, optional)
Adds a depth of flavor and enhances the overall savory profile of the dish, but it’s optional.
How to Make Easy Slow-Cooker Lemon Chicken
This slow cooker recipe begins with a quick sear to give the chicken a golden color and more flavor. Once transferred to the slow cooker, the chicken cooks gently with lemon, garlic, and butter until tender. Then, a creamy mixture is stirred in and cooked further to create a thick, luscious sauce that coats every bite.
You’ll be amazed how easily this comes together for such a satisfying meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Melt one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook each side for 4 to 6 minutes until nicely browned.
Step 2: Add Chicken to the Slow Cooker
Transfer the seared chicken to your slow cooker and arrange it in a single layer.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Sprinkle lemon zest and pour lemon juice over the chicken. Add minced garlic and distribute the remaining butter over the top in small chunks.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Place the lid on and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Sauce
In a bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the half and half, cornstarch, and chicken base if using. Make sure it’s fully blended and smooth.
Step 6: Stir in the Sauce
Gently pour the cream mixture into the slow cooker and stir to combine with the juices.
Step 7: Let the Sauce Thicken
Cover again and cook on high for 1 more hour. The sauce should thicken and develop a creamy texture that coats the chicken well.
Helpful Tips
Use only lemon zest and juice, not the rind, to avoid a bitter taste
Searing the chicken first adds deeper flavor but can be skipped if short on time
Thighs can be used instead of breasts if you prefer darker meat
The sauce thickens more after it cools, especially when stored
A sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving adds a nice finishing touch
Details
Flavor: Creamy, garlicky, with a light citrus zing
Texture: Tender chicken in a smooth, thick sauce
Occasion: Great for dinner, meal prep, or family meals
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Notes
Feel free to substitute chicken thighs if desired. You can also add spinach or mushrooms during the last 30 minutes for added nutrition. Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up all that creamy lemon sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 466 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Protein | 50 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13 g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 9 g |
| Trans Fat | 1 g |
| Cholesterol | 198 mg |
| Sodium | 766 mg |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can lemon chicken be made in a slow cooker without becoming bitter?
Yes, the key is to use only lemon juice and zest. Avoid adding the whole peel or slices with rind, as that can cause bitterness.
What cut of chicken works best for slow-cooker lemon chicken?
Both chicken breasts and thighs work well. Breasts are lean and tender, while thighs stay extra juicy and flavorful.
Should lemon juice be added at the beginning or end of cooking?
It should be added at the start, so the flavor gently infuses the chicken as it cooks.
Can slow-cooker lemon chicken be used for meal prep?
Absolutely. This dish stores and reheats very well, making it great for weekly meal prep or next-day lunches.
Storage Instructions
Let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For freezing, place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Print
Easy Slow-Cooker Lemon Chicken | Creamy Weeknight Favorite
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
Description
Tender chicken cooked in a slow cooker with a creamy lemon garlic sauce. Rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Zest and juice of 2 lemons
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup half and half
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon chicken base (optional)
Instructions
1. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet.
2. Season and sear chicken for 4–6 minutes per side.
3. Transfer chicken to slow cooker.
4. Top with lemon juice, zest, garlic, and remaining butter.
5. Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2.
6. Whisk half and half, cornstarch, and chicken base.
7. Stir cream mixture into slow cooker.
8. Cook on high for 1 more hour.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 466
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 766mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 50g
- Cholesterol: 198mg
Conclusion
This creamy slow-cooker lemon chicken is the kind of recipe that makes life easier while still delivering on flavor. It’s rich, comforting, and brightened by lemon for a dish that feels both hearty and refreshing. With very little effort, you get a meal that tastes like home-cooked comfort at its best. Give it a try and enjoy a stress-free dinner that everyone will love.