Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Lemon and Oregano Recipe
Tender and juicy slow cooker chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful broth with herbs and lemon for a simple, healthy, and versatile main dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2-3 lbs.)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano, divided
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, divided
Liquids and Fats
- 1/2 cup chicken stock or broth, preferably low sodium
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (use olive oil for dairy free or paleo)
Others
- 1 lemon, cut into quarters
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning: In a small bowl, mix half of the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper together. This will be used to season the chicken breasts evenly.
- Season the chicken: Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
- Place in slow cooker: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer for even cooking.
- Add liquids and lemon: Pour the chicken stock or broth evenly over the chicken. Drizzle the melted butter on top, then tuck the lemon quarters around and on top of the chicken breasts.
- Sprinkle remaining seasoning: Sprinkle the rest of the dried oregano, salt, and pepper evenly over the top of the chicken and lemon to enhance the flavor build-up during slow cooking.
- Cook slowly: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender and juicy.
- Serve: Remove the chicken breasts carefully from the slow cooker using tongs. Serve them hot with the lemon wedges and some of the cooking juices spooned over for extra moisture and flavor.
Notes
- Using low sodium chicken broth helps control salt levels, especially important if serving to those monitoring sodium intake.
- For a dairy-free or paleo-friendly version, substitute butter with olive oil or another preferred plant-based fat.
- Do not overcook chicken breasts in the slow cooker to avoid drying out; check for doneness at the earlier time point.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Leftover chicken can be shredded and used in salads, sandwiches, or soups.
