If you’re searching for a comforting, flavorful dish that practically cooks itself, look no further than this Lemon Basil Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe. The tender chicken breasts soak up a bright, zesty lemon broth infused with aromatic dried basil and parsley, while a bed of sweet carrots adds natural sweetness and texture. Each bite bursts with sunshine and warmth, making it a perfect weeknight winner that feels fresh, vibrant, and effortlessly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simple ingredients that work beautifully together to create a harmonious flavor profile. Each component plays an important role—whether it’s the acidity of the lemon, the herbal notes from basil and parsley, or the cozy sweetness from the carrots.
- 4-5 boneless skinless chicken breasts: These provide the lean, tender protein base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 3 cups chopped carrots: Adding natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color beneath the chicken.
- 3/4 cup chicken broth: This keeps everything moist and infuses the chicken with savory depth.
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice: Using fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for that bright, tangy kick.
- 1 tablespoon dried basil: Brings an earthy, slightly sweet aroma that pairs perfectly with lemon.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a subtle freshness and color contrast.
- Lemon pepper or salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall flavor.
How to Make Lemon Basil Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the lemon basil broth
Start by combining the chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, dried basil, and dried parsley in a bowl. This mixture will become the flavorful cooking liquid that infuses the chicken and carrots with vibrant taste, so take a moment to ensure it’s well blended.
Step 2: Layer the carrots
Place the chopped carrots at the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a sweet bed for the chicken to rest on and also imparts a wonderful texture difference as the carrots soften but stay tender.
Step 3: Season and arrange the chicken
Lay the chicken breasts directly on top of the carrots. Season both sides generously with lemon pepper for an extra citrusy punch, or simply season with salt and pepper if that’s what you have on hand. This step ensures each bite of chicken is flavorful from edge to edge.
Step 4: Pour the broth mixture over the chicken
Carefully pour the lemon basil broth you mixed earlier evenly over the chicken and carrots. This liquid will slowly tenderize the chicken during cooking and infuse everything with those irresistible lemon and herb notes.
Step 5: Set to slow cook
Cover your slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 5-6 hours. The slow cooking time breaks down the chicken perfectly, resulting in juicy, tender pieces that fall apart with a fork, wrapped in bright, herby goodness.
How to Serve Lemon Basil Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley on top just before serving adds an inviting burst of color and fresh herbal aroma. You can also zest a little lemon over the dish to intensify the citrus flavors further and make it look gorgeous on the plate.
Side Dishes
Pair this lemon basil slow cooker chicken with fluffy rice or buttered noodles to soak up the luscious broth. A crisp green salad or steamed green beans add balance and crunch, complementing the mellow sweetness of the carrots and the tender chicken perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, shred the cooked chicken and toss it with cooked quinoa or couscous, then drizzle with some of the cooking juices for a hearty grain bowl. You can also serve slices of the chicken on toasted bread with a smear of goat cheese and a few leaves of fresh basil for an elegant appetizer or light lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Lemon Basil Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze any extra chicken along with some of the broth in freezer-safe containers. This dish freezes well and can be enjoyed within 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken and carrots in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Warm slowly to maintain the tenderness and prevent the chicken from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer dark meat, and they tend to stay even more tender and juicy with slow cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
Do I have to use dried herbs, or can I use fresh?
Fresh basil and parsley can be used instead of dried for a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Add fresh herbs towards the end of cooking or as a garnish to preserve their freshness.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers all work beautifully. Just keep in mind the different cooking times to avoid mushy veggies.
Is it possible to make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt this for an Instant Pot. Use the sauté function to mix ingredients and then pressure cook on high for about 10 minutes, followed by a natural release.
How can I make the dish more tangy if I love lemon flavor?
Try adding lemon zest along with the juice or increase the lemon juice slightly for an extra citrus punch. A finishing drizzle of lemon juice just before serving also amps up the lemony brightness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the ease and flavor of this Lemon Basil Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate and is perfect for busy days when you want homemade comfort without fuss. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes—because nothing beats tender chicken infused with zesty lemon and fragrant basil all cooked low and slow to perfection.
Print
Lemon Basil Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours (300 minutes)
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful and tender Lemon Basil Slow Cooker Chicken recipe featuring juicy boneless chicken breasts cooked atop a bed of sweet carrots, infused with fresh lemon juice and aromatic herbs for a comforting and easy meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4–5 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables
- 3 cups chopped carrots
Liquid & Seasonings
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 3 Tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed from about 4–5 lemons)
- 1 Tbsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Lemon pepper seasoning or salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the broth mixture: In a bowl, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, dried basil, and dried parsley. Mix well and set aside.
- Layer the carrots: Place the chopped carrots evenly on the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful base.
- Season and layer chicken: Arrange the chicken breasts on top of the carrots. Season both sides of the chicken with lemon pepper seasoning; if unavailable, use salt and pepper.
- Add broth mixture: Pour the prepared chicken broth mixture evenly over the layered chicken breasts and carrots.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 5-6 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Notes
- Using fresh lemon juice enhances the brightness and flavor of the dish.
- Carrots add natural sweetness and a slight crunch when cooked slowly.
- Adjust seasoning according to preference, adding more lemon pepper or fresh herbs if desired.
- This recipe yields 4-6 servings, perfect for meal prep or family dinners.
- Slow cooker times may vary slightly depending on your appliance model.
