Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken
Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal cooks gently in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
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!