If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, then this Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken is exactly what you need. The chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender as it simmers away in a creamy, flavorful sauce infused with bright lemon and fragrant herbs. The slow cooker works its magic, turning simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal that’s both comforting and full of vibrant flavor. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without any hassle. Trust me, this one is going to become a staple in your recipe rotation!

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re feeding your family, preparing a meal for guests, or just treating yourself, this creamy chicken dish is guaranteed to hit the spot. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It’s perfect for whatever you’re in the mood for.

Budget-Friendly: Chicken is affordable, and the ingredients for the creamy sauce are simple, making this a meal that won’t break the bank.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, all you have to do is add the ingredients to the slow cooker and let it do the work.

Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or adjust the level of creaminess to suit your taste. You can even toss in some veggies for a complete one-pot meal.

Crowd-Pleasing: This dish has something for everyone the rich, creamy sauce is balanced with the zesty lemon and fresh herbs, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients in Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken

This Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken is made with just a few simple ingredients that create a big flavor payoff. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work great. The thighs will give you a richer, juicier result, but both cuts are delicious.

Cream Cheese: This is the base for the creamy sauce that makes this dish so indulgent.

Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the sauce without being too heavy.

Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest bring the bright, tangy flavor that perfectly balances the richness of the cream.

Garlic: A couple of cloves of garlic give the dish savory depth.

Fresh Herbs: Thyme, rosemary, and parsley are the perfect combination to elevate this dish with earthy and fragrant flavors.

Salt and Pepper: To season everything just right.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious, creamy masterpiece:

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. This simple step will help bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.

Add the Ingredients to the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, and add in the cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and herbs. Make sure everything is well-distributed around the chicken.

Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will become tender and juicy, while the sauce thickens to creamy perfection.

Shred the Chicken (Optional): Once the chicken is cooked through, you can shred it using two forks for a pulled-chicken texture or leave it whole, depending on your preference.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve the chicken and creamy sauce over your choice of side—rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes are all perfect options.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) / 3-4 hours (high)
Total Time: 6-7 hours (low) / 3-4 hours (high)

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to enhance your dining experience:

Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all that delicious creamy sauce.
Pair it with roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or green beans for a light and healthy side.
For a more indulgent option, serve it with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to complement the creamy chicken.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
If you prefer a tangier sauce, add a bit more lemon juice or zest to brighten up the flavor.
For an extra boost of flavor, you can sear the chicken in a hot pan for a couple of minutes before adding it to the slow cooker. This will give it a golden, crispy exterior.
This dish also works well with chicken thighs, which will give you a richer and more tender result.
If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the creamy sauce after it’s finished cooking.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but be sure to cook it for a little longer—around 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high.

2. Can I make this dish in the Instant Pot?
Yes! You can cook this dish in the Instant Pot on high pressure for 15 minutes, then allow it to release naturally for about 10 minutes.

3. Can I make this without cream cheese?
You can substitute the cream cheese with heavy cream for a lighter sauce, though it won’t be quite as thick and creamy.

4. Can I use other herbs?
Feel free to experiment! Fresh basil, dill, or oregano would all work beautifully in this recipe.

5. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

6. How do I prevent the sauce from being too thin?
If the sauce turns out too thin, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce to thicken it. Let it cook for another 10-15 minutes to thicken up.

7. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Add some vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms into the slow cooker along with the chicken for a one-pot meal.

8. How long will leftovers last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

9. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

10. How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, you can reduce it by simmering it on the stovetop after cooking, or mix in a bit of cornstarch slurry.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken is one of those meals that’s as comforting as it is impressive. With minimal effort, you get a tender, flavorful chicken simmered in a creamy, tangy sauce that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it to your family on a busy weeknight or enjoying it for a special dinner, this dish is guaranteed to make your taste buds happy. So grab your slow cooker, gather the ingredients, and let the magic happen this meal is sure to become a favorite in no time!

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