Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of perfectly seasoned chicken that practically falls off the bone. This Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken is about to become your new go-to recipe that promises maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking for an easy meal, or someone who craves restaurant-quality dishes without the complicated techniques, this recipe is your culinary salvation!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 6 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes better browning.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Whisk the ingredients together to create a uniform marinade.
- Generously coat each chicken thigh with the lemon pepper marinade, ensuring all sides are evenly covered. Let the chicken sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer inside the slow cooker, trying not to overlap them too much for even cooking.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 4 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker using tongs. Let them rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Optional: For a crispy exterior, place the chicken thighs under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh lemon slices and additional cracked black pepper if desired.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure the marinade sticks and creates a flavorful crust.
- For maximum flavor infusion, let the chicken marinate for at least 10-15 minutes before cooking, or even overnight in the refrigerator if time permits.
- Avoid overcrowding the slow cooker. A single layer of chicken ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat chicken.
- The optional broiling step is a game-changer - it adds a delightful crispy exterior that elevates the entire dish.
- Fresh lemon zest and cracked black pepper as a final garnish can brighten the flavors and add a professional touch to your presentation.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 140mg
