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Slow Cooker Lemonade Chicken Recipe

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4.3 from 5 reviews

Slow Cooker Lemonade Chicken is a tangy and sweet dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a flavorful lemonade-based sauce. This easy recipe combines the acidity of lemonade concentrate with honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic for a deliciously vibrant meal perfect for any day of the week. Using a slow cooker ensures the chicken remains juicy and infused with bright citrus flavors, making it an effortless and satisfying main course.

  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 pounds chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Sauce

  • 1 cup frozen lemonade concentrate (thawed)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water for slurry
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley
  • Lemon slices

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with sea salt and black pepper to enhance the meat’s flavor.
  2. Sear the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for about 2 minutes on each side until they develop a light golden crust. This step adds flavor and helps seal in juices.
  3. Prepare the sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the thawed lemonade concentrate, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) until fully combined and smooth.
  4. Combine chicken and sauce in slow cooker: Place the seared chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the lemonade sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated thoroughly.
  5. Cook the chicken: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Cook until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  6. Finish the sauce: Once cooked, stir the sauce in the slow cooker and add the butter and fresh lemon juice. Mix well; the sauce will thicken slightly as it cools.
  7. Serve: Spoon the thickened lemonade sauce over the chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a bright, fresh presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Ensure chicken breasts are patted dry before seasoning and searing to get a better sear.
  • The cornstarch slurry is critical for thickening the sauce; do not omit.
  • You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice if needed but fresh is recommended for best flavor.
  • If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more honey to taste.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to prevent drying out the chicken.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American