If you’re on the hunt for a meal that encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean flavors while being incredibly easy to prepare, look no further than Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken. This dish is bursting with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and the warmth of oregano, creating a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-soaked shores of Greece. With minimal effort, this slow cooker recipe allows you to enjoy a hearty and healthy meal any day of the week. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this delightful dish!

The Upside of Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken

One of the best things about Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken is its straightforward preparation. You simply toss all your ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it! The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb all the delightful flavors, resulting in tender, juicy meat that practically falls apart. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep, making it easy to have healthy meals ready to go throughout the week.

What to Buy

When preparing this delicious dish, it’s essential to have the right ingredients on hand. Here’s what you need to gather:

24 to 32 ounces boneless and skinless chicken breasts (about 4 pieces)
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
3 teaspoons dried oregano (or rosemary, optional)
1/4 cup lemon juice (fresh squeezed is best)
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 cup chicken broth
3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Appliances & Accessories

To make your cooking experience smoother, consider having the following appliances and accessories:

Slow Cooker: A reliable slow cooker is a must. Look for one with a removable insert for easier cleaning.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping garlic and parsley with ease.
Serving Spoon: To dish out your delicious chicken once it’s cooked.

Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken, Made Easy

Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, let’s walk through the steps to make your Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the boneless and skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they fit comfortably without overlapping too much.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Next, sprinkle the minced garlic over the chicken. This step is essential as the garlic infuses its flavor into the meat as it cooks.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle the kosher salt and dried oregano (or rosemary, if you prefer) over the chicken. The herbs will lend a fragrant touch to the dish.

Step 4: Incorporate the Lemon

Pour the fresh lemon juice and add the lemon zest on top of the chicken. The acidity of the lemon will help tenderize the chicken while adding a bright flavor.

Step 5: Add the Broth

Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker. This will keep the chicken moist during the cooking process and create a delicious sauce.

Step 6: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer you cook it, the more tender the chicken will become.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the cooking time is up, shred the chicken directly in the pot using two forks. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve this lovely dish over rice, quinoa, or alongside a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.

What to Use Instead

If you find yourself missing any of the ingredients, here are some substitutions you can consider:

Chicken Breasts: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Garlic: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
Lemon Juice: Lime juice can be a delightful alternative if you’re looking for a twist on the traditional flavor.
Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth works well if you’re looking for a lighter flavor.

Slip-Ups to Skip

While making Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken is straightforward, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Skipping the browning: While slow cooking, browning the chicken beforehand can add an extra layer of flavor, though it’s not necessary.
Overcooking: Make sure to check the chicken for doneness as cooking times may vary based on your slow cooker model.
Not seasoning enough: Don’t skimp on the salt and herbs; they are essential for flavor.
Using bottled lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice provides a bright, lively flavor that bottled juice cannot replicate.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Once you’ve enjoyed your Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken, you may want to store leftovers. Here’s how:

To refrigerate, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

If you want to freeze it, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, shred the chicken before freezing to make reheating easier.

To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or warm it up in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it looks too dry.

Common Qs About Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be aware that it may require additional cooking time. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.

Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot by using the sauté function for the garlic and then pressure cooking for about 10 minutes on high pressure.

What sides pair well with Greek Lemon Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice or couscous to soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I use other herbs instead of oregano?

Yes! Thyme or basil can be great alternatives if you’re looking for different flavor profiles.

Reader Favorites

Here are some popular recipes that our readers love:

Hungry for More?

If this recipe has whetted your appetite for more delightful dishes, be sure to explore our collection of easy slow cooker recipes, flavorful chicken dishes, and vibrant Mediterranean-inspired meals. Each recipe is crafted with love and designed to bring joy to your kitchen.

Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table. With its zesty flavors and tender chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients and let your slow cooker do the work while you sit back and relax. Happy cooking!

Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken

This Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken is bursting with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, creating a Mediterranean delight that's easy to prepare!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 6

Total Time 6 15

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

24 to 32 ounces boneless and skinless chicken breasts about 4 pieces
4 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
3 teaspoons dried oregano (or rosemary, optional)
1/4 cup lemon juice (fresh squeezed is best)
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 cup chicken broth
3 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

Slow Cooker
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board and knife
Serving spoon

Method

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken. Start by placing the boneless and skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they fit comfortably without overlapping too much.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics. Next, sprinkle the minced garlic over the chicken. This step is essential as the garlic infuses its flavor into the meat as it cooks.
Step 3: Season the Mixture. Sprinkle the kosher salt and dried oregano (or rosemary, if you prefer) over the chicken. The herbs will lend a fragrant touch to the dish.
Step 4: Incorporate the Lemon. Pour the fresh lemon juice and add the lemon zest on top of the chicken. The acidity of the lemon will help tenderize the chicken while adding a bright flavor.
Step 5: Add the Broth. Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker. This will keep the chicken moist during the cooking process and create a delicious sauce.
Step 6: Slow Cook. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer you cook it, the more tender the chicken will become.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve. Once the cooking time is up, shred the chicken directly in the pot using two forks. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve this lovely dish over rice, quinoa, or alongside a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.

Notes

For a richer flavor, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
Fresh garlic is recommended, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken

The Upside of Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken

What to Buy

Appliances & Accessories