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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American