If you're on the hunt for a mouthwatering dish that practically cooks itself, look no further than our Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs! This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or meal prepping, combining the zesty brightness of lemon and the savory aroma of garlic into tender, juicy chicken that will leave your taste buds dancing. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Ready to impress your family and friends with minimal effort? Dive into this deliciously simple recipe that promises to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the chicken thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps to achieve a better sear and flavor.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable freezer bag. Pour the lemon garlic mixture over the chicken, ensuring that each thigh is well coated. Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible, and massage the marinade into the chicken.
- Label the freezer bag with the date and contents, then place it in the freezer. This can be stored for up to 3 months.
- When ready to cook, remove the freezer bag from the freezer and allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Once thawed, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs, skin side down, for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the seared chicken thighs to the slow cooker, skin side up. Pour any remaining marinade from the freezer bag over the chicken.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with your choice of sides!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time on busy days, prepare the chicken thighs and marinade in advance. Store them in a resealable freezer bag and freeze. This allows for easy thawing and cooking whenever you need a quick meal.
- Searing for Flavor: Don’t skip the step of searing the chicken thighs before adding them to the slow cooker. This step locks in flavor and gives the skin a delightful crispy texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and lemon juice for a brighter flavor. Fresh ingredients can elevate the dish and make it even more delicious.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick!
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your chicken thighs with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad to complement the zesty flavors. The leftover sauce from the slow cooker makes a great dressing or drizzle!
- Check for Doneness: Always ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. A meat thermometer is a handy tool for this!
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances the dish’s appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 120mg
