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Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
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Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs is a tender, juicy slow-cooker meal bursting with vibrant citrus and aromatic garlic flavors. This easy-to-make recipe combines bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs with fresh lemon juice and zest, garlic, oregano, and chicken broth to create a rich, savory, and zesty dish perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Citrus and Aromatics

  • 2 fresh lemons (zest and juice)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

Other Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Garlic and Lemon: Peel and mince the garlic cloves. Zest two lemons, then juice them, removing any seeds. The combination of zest and juice provides a bright citrus aroma and flavor throughout the dish.
  2. Sear the Chicken Thighs (Optional but Recommended): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken thighs skin-side down for about 3 minutes until golden. This step seals in juices and adds depth of flavor but can be skipped to save time.
  3. Add Ingredients to the Crockpot: Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with minced garlic, lemon zest, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and chicken broth to form a flavorful cooking base.
  4. Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The gentle heat allows flavors to meld and ensures the chicken is fall-apart tender.
  5. Finish and Serve: Check the seasoning and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve the chicken with its juices spooned over the top for maximum lemon-garlic flavor, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Notes

  • Searing chicken thighs adds texture and locks in moisture but is optional.
  • Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor and juiciness.
  • Fresh lemons are essential for brightness; bottled lemon juice does not provide the same flavor complexity.
  • Lightly sauté garlic before slow cooking for deeper aroma and flavor layering.
  • Let cooked chicken rest in the juices for 10 minutes before serving for better flavor absorption.

Nutrition

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

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