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Keto Crockpot Zesty Lemon Chicken - Bright, Easy, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 2 to 2.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
  • Fresh citrus: 2 lemons (you’ll use juice and zest)
  • Aromatics: 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional for extra flavor)
  • Fats: 3 tablespoons butter; 2 ounces cream cheese (full-fat)
  • Broth: 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Herbs and spices: 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1 bay leaf
  • Seasoning: 1 to 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (for searing, optional)
  • Thickener (optional): 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum
  • Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped

Method
 

  1. Prep the lemons: Zest one lemon and juice both. You should have about 1/4 cup lemon juice. Set aside.
  2. Season the chicken: Pat chicken dry. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and thyme. Rub to coat evenly on all sides.
  3. Optional sear: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This adds depth but isn’t required.
  4. Layer the crockpot: Add onion (if using) and garlic to the bottom of the slow cooker. Place chicken on top. Tuck in the bay leaf.
  5. Add liquids and zest: Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Scatter lemon zest over the chicken. Add butter in small pieces across the top.
  6. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours, or on High for 2–3 hours. Thighs tolerate longer cooking; breasts need the shorter end to stay juicy.
  7. Finish the sauce: Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth. If you prefer a thicker sauce, sprinkle xanthan gum over the liquid while stirring constantly to avoid clumps. Let it sit 5 minutes to thicken.
  8. Taste and adjust: Add a pinch more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Remove the bay leaf.
  9. Garnish and serve: Top with fresh parsley. Serve with cauliflower rice, sautéed greens, or roasted broccoli to keep it keto.