Ready in: 7 hours · Serves: 6 · Technique: Slow Cooking · Storage: Up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
For a flavorful and effortless meal, slow cook chicken thighs and breasts marinated in a zesty lemon and pepper blend until tender.
When the cool air settles over New York City and the holiday season draws near, I find myself gravitating toward comforting, flavorful meals that require minimal fuss. One of my go-to dishes is this Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken. It's perfect for busy weeknights or scaling up for gatherings over Thanksgiving and Christmas. What I love about it is how the zesty lemon and fragrant pepper meld beautifully to create a dish that's not just easy but also a crowd-pleaser.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation with minimal fuss-perfect for busy weeknights.
- A deliciously zesty and aromatic flavor that everyone will enjoy.
- Flexible for scaling up, making it ideal for gatherings during the holiday season.
- Requires only a few simple ingredients, making it budget-friendly.
- Results in tender, juicy chicken that can be paired with various sides.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this flavorful dish:
Chicken
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 2 chicken breasts
Marinade
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken.
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
I start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels, which is essential for getting that beautiful, golden crust. In a bowl, I mix the olive oil, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, and paprika. The bright aroma of lemon mingles with the earthy notes of thyme, and I can't resist stealing a small taste of the marinade at this point-so tangy and delightful!
Step 2: Marinating
Once the chicken is coated, I let it marinate for about 30 minutes at room temperature. This little step is worth it for the flavor that penetrates the meat, ensuring every bite is deliciously zesty.
Step 3: Slow Cooking
I place the chicken in the slow cooker, pouring any remaining marinade over the top. Here's where the magic happens: I cover my slow cooker with the lid, set it on low for 6-7 hours, and walk away. I love this part-going about my day while my home fills with the mouthwatering scent of lemon pepper chicken slowly cooking to perfection.
Step 4: Serving
Upon returning, I open the lid to a steamy cloud of citrus and spice. The chicken should be perfectly tender, easily shredding with a fork. I serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside roasted vegetables, garnishing with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Pat Dry Step: This can lead to soggy chicken skin instead of that delicious golden exterior.
- Not Marinating Long Enough: While it's tempting to rush, marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor significantly.
- Overloading the Slow Cooker: For best results, avoid adding too much chicken or heavy ingredients, which can lead to uneven cooking.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sliced lemons into the slow cooker to infuse the dish further as it cooks.
- If you have leftovers, shred the chicken and toss it in a salad or wrap for a tasty next-day meal.
- Pair this dish with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a light quinoa salad to complement the zesty flavor profile.
Variations
- Substitute chicken thighs with drumsticks or wings for a different texture.
- Use fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme to alter the flavor profile.
- Incorporate different citrus fruits like lime or orange for a unique twist.
How to Serve
- Serve over a bed of fluffy rice for a comforting meal.
- Pair with roasted vegetables to add color and nutrients to your plate.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Enjoy with a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty combination.
- Add to a salad or wrap for a delicious next-day meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain moisture.
- Freezing: Shredded chicken can be frozen for up to three months in an airtight container.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
This dish is impressively versatile, delicious fresh or as leftovers. Experimenting with different sides to complement the lemon pepper flavors can yield surprising and delightful pairings. The ease of preparation allows more time for gathering with loved ones, making it a truly comforting dish for any occasion.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 6 servings · Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh or breast
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 26g protein · 5g carbs · 25g fat
Recipe by:
Effortless Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, and paprika.
- Coat the chicken with the marinade and let it marinate for about 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker, pouring any remaining marinade over the top. Cover and slow cook on low for 6-7 hours.
- Shred the chicken with a fork and serve over rice or alongside roasted vegetables, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts. However, be aware that cooking times may vary, and boneless chicken may cook faster.
2. How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, it's recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. You can also marinate it overnight in the refrigerator for a more intense flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can make lemon pepper chicken in a pressure cooker. Cook on high pressure for about 10-15 minutes, and let the pressure release naturally for best results.
4. What sides pair well with lemon pepper chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light quinoa salad that complements the zesty flavors.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain moisture.
