Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken is a dish that transforms ordinary weeknight dinners into something extraordinary, enveloping your kitchen in a tantalizing aroma that hints at the delightful flavors within. Imagine returning home after a long day, only to be greeted by the warm, inviting scent of tender chicken simmering in a luscious, creamy sauce infused with bright lemon and aromatic herbs. The slow cooker works its magic, allowing the chicken to absorb the vibrant flavors while maintaining its juiciness and tenderness. Each bite is a harmonious balance of tangy citrus and fragrant herbs, creating a dish that feels both comforting and refreshing. This culinary masterpiece is not just a meal; it’s an experience that invites you to slow down and savor the moment, whether enjoyed at a cozy family dinner or shared with friends on a special occasion. The beauty of Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken lies in its ability to elevate simple ingredients into a symphony of taste, transforming your dining table into a celebration of flavor and togetherness.
Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup reduced sodium chicken broth
- 2 cup cloves garlic, smashed
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
- 3 (10 to 12 ounces) chicken breasts, halved horizontally to get 6 cutlets
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- (lemon wedges optional)
Instructions
- Collect all the ingredients.
- Combine the chicken broth, garlic, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a 4- to 5-quart slow cooker. This mixture serves as a flavorful base for the dish, allowing the ingredients to meld and create a rich, creamy sauce as it cooks.
- Season the chicken on both sides with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Working in batches, sear half of the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side until browned. This step enhances the chicken's flavor through caramelization, adding depth to the overall dish before it is combined with the creamy sauce.
- Transfer the chicken from the skillet to the slow cooker and repeat the process with the remaining oil and chicken. Once all the chicken is in the slow cooker, cover it and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer. This slow cooking method allows the chicken to become tender and infused with the rich flavors of the sauce, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal.
- Using tongs, carefully transfer the chicken and garlic cloves to a serving platter. This step highlights the beautifully cooked chicken, allowing it to be presented attractively for serving. The roasted garlic can be squeezed out of its skins to add extra flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- In a medium microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and cornstarch. Add the cooking liquid from the slow cooker to the bowl, then microwave for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until the mixture thickens. Finally, stir in the lemon zest to enhance the sauce with bright citrus notes. This process creates a silky, flavorful sauce that will elevate the chicken dish with its creamy texture and vibrant taste.
- Serve the chicken topped with the lemon sauce, and add lemon wedges on the side if desired. This presentation not only enhances the dish with an extra burst of citrus flavor but also makes for an inviting and vibrant plate. Enjoy the harmonious blend of creamy, tangy, and herbaceous flavors!
