Introduction
Crock Pot Lemonade Chicken is a delightful and tangy dish that combines the flavors of chicken with the refreshing taste of lemonade. This easy slow-cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion where you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep work and a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken Breasts – 2 pounds
Lemonade – 1 cup
Soy Sauce – 1/4 cup
Honey – 1/4 cup
Garlic Cloves – 3, minced
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
Prep Time
The preparation time for Crock Pot Lemonade Chicken is around 10 minutes. This allows you to gather the ingredients, mix the marinade, and place everything in the slow cooker.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: Approximately 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Total Time: Including prep, expect to spend about 6-8 hours for a complete meal.
Yield: This recipe serves about 4-6 people, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Start by taking 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Ensure they are thawed and ready for cooking.
Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix these seasoning ingredients thoroughly.
Season the Chicken
Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. Make sure the chicken is well-coated.
Add to the Crock Pot
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the bottom of a crock pot.
Prepare the Lemonade
In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of lemonade concentrate and ¼ cup of soy sauce. Stir until well combined.
Pour the Lemonade Mixture
Pour the lemonade and soy sauce mixture over the chicken in the crock pot, ensuring the chicken is submerged as much as possible.
Cook the Chicken
Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the crock pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the crock pot with the juices.
Mix Well
Stir the shredded chicken in the crock pot to combine it with the juice and flavorings thoroughly.
Serve the Dish
Scoop out the chicken and serve it warm. This dish pairs well with rice or bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
Notes
Storage
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the crock pot for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving this chicken over a bed of quinoa or alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.