There is something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes. Picture this: tender, juicy chicken braised in zesty lemon juice and herbs, surrounded by humble but delightful chunks of potatoes and aromatic garlic. This dish not only fills your home with mouthwatering scents but also leaves you with a sense of culinary achievement, all without making you break a sweat.
What could be better than a meal that practically cooks itself while you go about your day? Perfect for those busy evenings when you want to impress family or friends but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen, this recipe for Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes is your new best friend.
Why You'll Love This Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes
- This incredible Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes:
2 lbs yellow potatoes – Cut into large 2-inch chunks for even cooking and to soak in all the flavors.
1/2 medium yellow onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish, cut into generous chunks.
5 cloves garlic – Minced to unleash its fragrant, aromatic essence throughout.
2 1/2 tsp dried oregano – A quintessential herb in Greek cuisine, bringing that Mediterranean flair.
1 tsp dried basil – Works beautifully with chicken and adds a layered depth.
1 tsp dried rosemary – Crushed for a robust flavor that complements the chicken splendidly.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural flavor.
3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – Juicy and full of flavor, this cut is perfect for slow cooking.
1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil – For searing the chicken to golden perfection, adding richness to the dish.
1/2 cup chicken broth – Keeps the dish moist and adds depth of flavor; feel free to use low-sodium.
3 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice – Brightens up the dish with a zesty kick.
2 tsp lemon zest – Infuses a vibrant lemon flavor; reserve some for garnishing the final dish.
3 Tbsp fresh parsley – Chopped fresh at the end for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes:
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Begin by placing the potatoes and onions in an even layer at the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker. This will create a hearty base for your chicken. Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables and sprinkle half of the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and rosemary on top. Don’t forget to season everything with salt and pepper to taste!
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, which helps achieve that golden-brown crust. Season the skin side with salt and pepper, then sear them in batches, skin-side down, until they develop a beautiful golden color—about 4 minutes should do the trick. Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker, layering it on the potato and onion bed.
Step 3: Flavor Explosion
It’s time to unleash the flavor! Evenly pour the fresh lemon juice over the chicken thighs. Sprinkle the remainder of the minced garlic, oregano, rosemary, and basil over the chicken. For that final zest of flavor, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of lemon zest atop the chicken. Reserve the other teaspoon in your refrigerator for garnishing later.
Step 4: Slow Cook Magic
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 5 1/2 to 7 hours. This is where the magic happens as all those lovely flavors meld together, creating a succulent and aromatic dish.
Step 5: The Grand Finale
Once the cooking time is up, carefully uncover the slow cooker and give the chicken a gentle stir to mix in all those amazing juices. As you serve, spoon some of the delectable juices over each plate to keep everything moist and flavorful. Top each serving with a sprinkle of the reserved lemon zest and chopped parsley for the ultimate presentation.
Enjoy this delightful meal with your loved ones, reminiscing about how easy it was to create such a stellar dish in a fraction of the time!
There you go! You have a delicious, comforting bowl of Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes that chases away the busy day blues with every warm spoonful. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy Sunday dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite, earning its spot on repeat in your meal planning rotation.
You Must Know About Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes
- This showstopping Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes Cooking Process
For the best results, start by searing the chicken thighs to lock in their juices and flavor. While they’re browning, prep your potatoes and onions in the slow cooker. This sequence maximizes flavor while minimizing fuss.
Add Your Touch to Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes
Feel free to mix things up by swapping yellow potatoes for sweet potatoes or using boneless chicken thighs if you prefer. You can also throw in some veggies like carrots or green beans for extra nutrition and color.
Storing & Reheating Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes
To store your leftovers, place the dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes
- This professional-quality Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
It was my sister’s birthday last year when I first made this recipe. The look on her face as she took the first bite was priceless; it turns out lemon chicken can be the best birthday gift ever!
FAQs About Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes
What is Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes?
Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes is a delicious Greek-inspired dish that combines tender chicken thighs with bright, zesty flavors. The potatoes soak up the savory juices from the chicken and seasonings, creating a comforting meal that practically cooks itself. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, allowing you to enjoy hearty, flavorful food without spending hours in the kitchen.
How long does it take to cook Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes?
Cooking Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes takes about 5.5 to 7 hours on low heat. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in juicy chicken and perfectly tender potatoes. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook on high heat for around 3 to 4 hours, but the slow-cooked version truly enhances the dish’s depth and richness.
Can I alter the ingredients in Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can easily customize Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes to suit your taste. Feel free to substitute yellow potatoes with sweet potatoes or add in vegetables like carrots and green beans for extra nutrition. If you prefer a lighter meal, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully too. Experimenting with seasonings is encouraged; try adding fresh herbs or lemon slices for an extra burst of flavor.
How should I store leftovers of Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes?
To store leftovers of Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, gently reheat them in the microwave or on the stove. Adding a splash of chicken broth helps keep the dish moist and enhances the flavors.
Conclusion for Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes
Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes is a standout dish that combines ease and flavor, perfect for anyone looking to impress guests or enjoy a comforting meal any day of the week. With its blend of tender chicken and zesty potatoes, this recipe proves that home-cooked meals can be simple yet delicious. So, gather your ingredients and let this delightful dish bring joy to your dining table!
Crockpot Lemon Chicken & Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place potatoes and onions in an even layer in a 6-quart slow cooker. Pour in chicken broth. Sprinkle with half the garlic, half the oregano, half the basil and half the rosemary then season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Working in two batches, dab skin side of half the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, season with salt and pepper then sear in pot, skin side down, until golden brown, about 4 minutes. Transfer chicken to slow cooker over potato layer. Repeat with remaining thighs.
- Slowly and evenly pour lemon juice over chicken thighs, then sprinkle in remaining half the garlic, oregano, rosemary and basil over chicken. Sprinkle 1 tsp lemon zest over chicken.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 5 1/2 - 7 hours. Serve warm spooning some of the slow cooker juices over each serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley and remaining 1 tsp lemon zest.
