Description
This Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe offers tender, flavorful chicken slow-cooked with zesty lemon juice, fresh garlic, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for an easy, hands-off dinner, this dish is both gluten-free and packed with protein, making it a healthy and delicious main course option.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 pounds bone-in skinless chicken thighs
Marinade and Seasoning
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Then season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika to enhance the flavor.
- Arrange in Crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer at the bottom of the crockpot. Ensuring an even layer allows them to cook consistently.
- Prepare Lemon Garlic Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chicken broth, olive oil, dried oregano, and dried thyme until fully combined.
- Pour Mixture Over Chicken: Evenly pour the lemon garlic mixture over the chicken thighs in the crockpot, allowing the flavors to infuse.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken is done when it is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Finishing Touches: Before serving, spoon some of the cooking liquid over the chicken to keep it moist and flavorful. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.
- Optional Crispy Skin: For crispy skin, transfer the cooked chicken thighs to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until the skin crisps up.
Notes
- For crispier chicken skin, broil the cooked thighs for 3 to 5 minutes after slow cooking.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it is safely cooked.
- You can substitute fresh herbs for dried if preferred, but adjust quantities accordingly.
