Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Chicken with Herbs
An easy healthy recipe that blends bright citrus with rich creaminess for a cozy fall dinner. Tender chicken slow cooked with butter, lemon, garlic, and herbs, creating a luxurious sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 5 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 pieces lemons, juiced and zested
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup half and half
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon chicken base (optional but delicious)
Instructions
Preparation
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with kosher salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear the chicken in the hot skillet for 4–6 minutes per side until lightly browned.
- Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and the remaining butter (cut into pieces) over the chicken.
- Cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours.
Final Steps
- In a large measuring cup, whisk together the half and half, cornstarch, and chicken base until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the slow cooker, stir gently, and cook on HIGH for an additional 1 hour until the sauce thickens.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Browning the chicken first adds extra flavor and helps seal in moisture. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up the creamy lemon sauce. For extra brightness, stir in a little more lemon zest before serving. Add spinach during the final 10 minutes for a burst of color and nutrients.