Description
This Slow-Cooker Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked slowly with fresh herbs, garlic, and a luscious lemon-infused creamy sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients to create a rich and aromatic meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 1/2 lb. skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 4)
- 2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
Sauce & Seasoning
- 4 tbsp. (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 3 thyme sprigs
- 1 rosemary sprig
- 2 tbsp. water
- 2 tsp. cornstarch
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp. finely grated lemon zest
- 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Season and Brown Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with 2 teaspoons of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Arrange the chicken breasts in an even layer and cook, turning once, until they are golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Then transfer the browned chicken to a 5-quart slow cooker.
- Deglaze Pan and Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Pour the chicken stock into the skillet and scrape the bottom to lift any browned bits, which add flavor. Pour this liquid over the chicken in the slow cooker. Add finely chopped shallot, garlic, thyme sprigs, and rosemary sprig on top of the chicken. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6 hours, until the chicken is very tender. Discard the herb stems after cooking.
- Thicken Sauce and Add Creamy Lemon Flavor: About 20 minutes before serving, whisk together the water and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker along with the heavy cream, grated lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Gently stir to combine everything. Continue cooking on the same heat setting for about 20 minutes more, until the sauce thickens slightly and is warmed through.
- Serve: Divide the chicken breasts and sauce among serving plates. Garnish each plate with fresh thyme sprigs for an added touch of herbaceous aroma and color. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- To keep chicken moist and tender, do not overcook in the slow cooker.
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice for vibrant citrus flavor.
- Butter can be substituted with olive oil for a lighter version.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch slurry.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: slow cooker chicken, creamy lemon chicken, lemon herb chicken, easy slow cooker recipes, chicken breasts, comfort food
