Crock Pot Lemon Italian Chicken with Capers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crock Pot Lemon Italian Chicken with Capers is incredibly simple to prepare, yet full of vibrant and fresh flavors. The buttery lemon sauce is enhanced by the Italian seasoning in the dressing mix, while the capers add a tangy punch that really elevates the dish. The slow cooker makes the chicken juicy and tender, and with the addition of pasta, this meal is a full-on flavor-packed experience. It’s a dish that feels fancy but is effortless to make!

Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (see note)
• 1 packet Italian dressing mix
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 1 pound pasta (your choice of type)
• Salt & pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the Flavorings: Stir in the Italian dressing mix, lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Cook in the Crock Pot: Pour the sauce over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Prepare the Pasta: About 20 minutes before the chicken is done, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Finish the Dish: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir to mix with the sauce.
7. Combine with Pasta: Serve the chicken and sauce over the cooked pasta. Toss everything together to coat the pasta in the delicious lemony sauce.
8. Garnish & Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs, lemon slices, or extra capers if desired, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Total Time: 4-6 hours (slow cook on low) or 2-3 hours (slow cook on high)

Variations

• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer chicken thighs, you can use boneless, skinless thighs in place of the chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
• Add Veggies: Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the crock pot in the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Different Pasta: You can swap the pasta for rice or quinoa if you want to change up the base or make it gluten-free.
• Extra Creamy: Stir in some heavy cream or cream cheese toward the end of the cooking time for a creamy version of the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce thickens too much, add a little chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just be sure to cook them for an extra 1-2 hours on low. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to confirm they’re fully cooked.

Can I make this dish without pasta?

Absolutely! This dish works great with pasta, but you can also serve the chicken and sauce over rice, mashed potatoes, or even roasted vegetables for a low-carb option.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

For a little extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or stir in some chopped fresh chili peppers.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. They’ll add more flavor and tenderness, and they work wonderfully in this recipe.

Can I use a different type of broth?

You can swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth if you’re looking for a vegetarian option or want to switch up the flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should be fully cooked and have an internal temperature of 165°F. It will also shred easily with two forks when it’s done.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to cook, add the chicken breasts and continue with the recipe as directed.

Can I make this recipe without capers?

If you’re not a fan of capers, you can omit them. You can also replace them with green olives or a small amount of lemon zest for a different flavor.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stovetop.

Can I add more lemon juice?

If you prefer a more tangy flavor, feel free to add extra lemon juice to the sauce. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to balance the acidity.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Lemon Italian Chicken with Capers is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests. The tender chicken, zesty lemon sauce, and savory capers come together beautifully in the slow cooker. Served over pasta, it’s a complete meal that’s both comforting and refreshing. Enjoy this easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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