Are you ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a restaurant-quality feast? This Crock Pot Lemon Italian Chicken with Capers is about to become your new culinary obsession! Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with bright, zesty lemon and briny capers, all prepared with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking to impress, or simply craving a delicious meal that practically cooks itself, this recipe is your ticket to an effortless and extraordinary dining experience.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Gather 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them on a clean cutting board. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of capers, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended.
- In the bottom of your crock pot, pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth. This will help to keep the chicken moist during cooking.
- Place the chicken breasts into the crock pot, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
- Pour the lemon juice and caper mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure they are evenly coated. Use a spoon to spread the mixture if necessary.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 hours. This slow cooking method will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and the chicken to become tender.
- After 4 hours, check the chicken for doneness. It should be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C). If it’s not done, continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour as needed.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the crock pot and place it on a serving platter. You can drizzle some of the cooking juices over the chicken for added flavor.
- Serve the Crock Pot Lemon Italian Chicken with Capers hot, accompanied by your choice of side dishes such as rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Pat the chicken breasts dry before cooking to ensure better seasoning absorption and prevent excess moisture.
- For the most tender results, use chicken breasts of similar size to guarantee even cooking.
- Don't rush the cooking process - the 4-hour slow cook is crucial for developing deep, rich flavors.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C) for food safety.
- For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the lemon-caper mixture.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with the cooking liquid after removing the chicken and let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making this a great meal prep option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 85mg
