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Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
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Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs are a flavorful, tender, and easy-to-make slow cooker dish featuring juicy chicken thighs infused with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and earthy herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, this hands-free recipe delivers a rich, tangy taste and a juicy texture that appeals to the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 to 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Flavorings

  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 4 to 5 garlic cloves, minced or sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or oregano or rosemary)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Liquid

  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup chicken broth or water

Optional Add-ins and Variations

  • Red pepper flakes or cayenne, for heat
  • Fresh herbs like basil or parsley, for garnish or swapping dried herbs
  • Vegetables such as sliced bell peppers, onions, baby potatoes
  • Low-sodium chicken broth and reduced salt, for low sodium version

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and dried herbs to build foundational flavor before cooking.
  2. Mix the Lemon Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, combine fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, and chicken broth. Whisk until well blended to create a fragrant and tangy sauce that will infuse the chicken during cooking.
  3. Assemble in the Crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the crockpot in a single layer. Pour the lemon garlic sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated with the flavors.
  4. Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and infused with lemon and garlic aromas.
  5. Finish and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Optionally, thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with cold water and cooking uncovered on high for 15-20 minutes. Serve the chicken hot, spooning the sauce over the top for maximum flavor.

Notes

  • Use bone-in thighs for deeper flavor and juicier meat.
  • Don’t skip lemon zest; it contains essential oils that boost flavor.
  • Layer root vegetables under the chicken to absorb juices and create a full meal.
  • Pre-searing the chicken thighs adds a lovely color and extra savory notes.
  • Check tenderness early as crockpot heating times vary.
  • This recipe is naturally gluten-free; verify that broths and seasonings are gluten-free if adding variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken, lemon garlic chicken, slow cooker recipes, easy chicken dinner, gluten free chicken thighs

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/crockpot-lemon-garlic-chicken-thighs/