Easy wins again, folks! After a long day, you’re still hungry and the last thing you want is a complicated dinner. Enter the magic of the slow cooker: Crock Pot Chicken Piccata! Bright, buttery, and full of lemony flavor, this dish practically cooks itself while you relax. Toss everything in, set it, and let the slow cooker work its wonders. And if you’re gluten-free? No worries, this recipe adapts easily so everyone can enjoy.
Love easy slow cooker dinners? Be sure to check out my Easy jezebel chicken crockpot recipe another flavorful, fuss-free meal that practically cooks itself!
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Piccata
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Whichever you prefer! Thighs stay super juicy, but breasts work great too.
- Chicken broth – Adds moisture and flavor. Make sure it’s labeled gluten-free if you’re going that route!
- Fresh lemon juice – Bright and zippy. Bottled works in a pinch, but fresh is best.
- Capers – The salty, briny pop that makes piccata piccata. Don’t skip them!
- Garlic – Because garlic makes everything better.
- Butter – For that silky finish. Use dairy-free if needed—this recipe’s flexible like that.
- All-purpose flour or gluten-free flour – To lightly coat the chicken and help thicken the sauce.
Tip: A 1:1 gluten-free flour mix (with xanthan gum or rice flour) is ideal for a golden sear without changing the texture.
Optional but fun:
- Parsley – For a fresh pop of green at the end.
- Lemon slices – Totally optional, but they make the finished dish look extra fancy with zero extra effort.
How to Make Gluten-Free Chicken Piccata
Adapting this Crock Pot Chicken Piccata for a gluten-free diet is super simple. Here’s how to do it right:
- Double-check your capers and spices – Most are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always smart to read labels for cross-contamination risks. a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water).
- Use a gluten-free flour blend – Look for one labeled 1:1 or “measure-for-measure.” These keep the coating light and the sauce smooth.
- Check the broth label – Some broths contain hidden gluten in flavorings or thickeners. Make sure it’s certified gluten-free.
Pro Tip: If you skip searing the chicken, you can leave out the flour entirely. Just thicken the sauce at the end using a quick cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp cold water).
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Piccata
Alright, let’s get this lemony magic going! The beauty of Crock Pot Chicken Piccata is that it feels fancy, but it’s secretly one of the easiest meals ever. Here’s how to pull it off like a total kitchen rockstar (even on your busiest day).
Step one: Optional Sear, Big Flavor
Totally optional, but if you’ve got 5 extra minutes, it’s worth it. Lightly searing the chicken before it hits the slow cooker locks in the juices and adds that golden, crave-worthy color.
- Lightly coat your chicken in regular flour or gluten-free flour
- Heat a little oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat
- Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side, just until lightly golden
- Transfer directly to your slow cooker
No time? No problem. Straight into the Crock Pot it goes—no judgment here!
Step two: Build the Sauce
Time to layer in the flavor. Pour these right over your chicken:
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice (hello, sunshine!)
- A good splash of regular or gluten-free chicken broth
- A couple spoonfuls of capers for that briny punch
- A few cloves of garlic (don’t hold back, garlic lovers!)
- A small knob of butter or dairy-free alternative
Give everything a gentle mix, or shake the slow cooker pot (with the lid on!) to combine.
Step three: Set It and Forget It
Your slow cooker is officially taking over. Time to relax.
- LOW for 4–5 hours = juicy, tender chicken
- HIGH for 2.5–3 hours if you’re in a bit of a hurry
Chicken should reach 165°F internally—tender and just barely shreddable.
Step four: Sauce Perfection (Pro Tip!)
Want that sauce just a bit thicker and glossy? Do this before serving:
- Scoop out ¼ cup of the hot broth
- Mix with 1 tablespoon cornstarch or regular or gluten-free flour until smooth
- Stir it back into the slow cooker
- Cook on HIGH for 15–20 more minutes until thickened
What to Serve with Chicken Piccata ?
Wondering what to serve with chicken piccata? The key is pairing this lemony, buttery chicken with sides that balance freshness, comfort, and texture. Here are some easy, delicious options to round out your meal:
1. Roasted Asparagus or Green Beans
Crispy roasted veggies are always a win. Toss asparagus or green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender-crisp. Their savory crunch is the perfect contrast to chicken piccata’s smooth, buttery sauce. Bonus: they’re naturally gluten-free.
2. Lemon Rice or Cauliflower Rice (Low-Carb Option)
Lemon rice keeps the citrusy vibe going and soaks up every drop of the sauce. For a lighter option, swap in cauliflower rice; it’s fluffy, low-carb, and absorbs flavors beautifully.
3. Fresh Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A simple mixed salad with arugula, spinach, or baby greens adds freshness and crunch. Dress it lightly with a lemon vinaigrette (a touch of honey optional) to complement the bright flavors of the piccata.
4. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
For ultimate comfort food, serve chicken piccata with creamy garlic mashed potatoes. The rich potatoes soak up the buttery sauce, while the garlic enhances the lemony, savory flavors without overpowering them.
5. Gluten-Free Pasta
Want a hearty, classic pairing? Serve your chicken piccata over gluten-free pasta. Cook it al dente so it holds its shape, and let the pasta capture all the silky, lemony sauce. This option makes the dish feel like a complete Italian-style comfort meal.
If you love cozy chicken dinners, my Easy smothered chicken is another comfort food classic that pairs wonderfully with simple sides.
Can You Meal Prep Crock Pot Chicken Piccata?
The answer is a big YES! This Crock Pot Chicken Piccata is absolutely meal prep-friendly. It’s a great dish to make in bulk, store, and reheat for busy days ahead. Let’s talk about how to store leftovers, keep it fresh, and make your life a little easier.
Storing Leftovers
- Cool it down: First things first, let your Crock Pot Chicken Piccata cool down a bit before storing. No one wants to seal in that steam!
- Airtight containers: Store the chicken in airtight containers to lock in the freshness. Make sure to store the sauce separately, if possible, so it doesn’t get too soggy while chilling in the fridge.
- Refrigeration: Your chicken piccata will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Perfect for those days when you don’t feel like cooking!
Reheating the Dish
- Microwave: Reheat your chicken piccata in the microwave on a microwave-safe plate. Add a spoonful of extra broth or water to keep the chicken moist while reheating.
- Stovetop: For the best results, reheat on the stovetop. Just place the chicken in a pan, add a little extra broth or water, and simmer over medium heat until warmed through. This keeps the sauce creamy and prevents it from drying out.
Freezing for the Future
- Freeze in portions: If you’re making a larger batch, this chicken piccata is perfect for freezing. Just store it in individual servings so you can grab a portion whenever you need a quick, delicious meal.
- Freeze sauce separately: Since the sauce can sometimes separate when frozen, it’s a good idea to store it separately from the chicken. Just pour the sauce into ice cube trays or small containers, and once frozen, transfer to a larger bag or container.
- Thawing and reheating: To reheat from frozen, let the chicken and sauce thaw overnight in the fridge, or defrost in the microwave. Then follow the same reheating tips above to bring it back to life!
Easy Crock Pot Chicken Piccata (Gluten-Free Option)
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth gluten-free if needed
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 –3 tbsp capers
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tbsp butter or dairy-free
- 2 tbsp flour all-purpose or gluten-free 1:1 blend
- Optional: fresh parsley lemon slices
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken (Optional Sear for Extra Flavor): Lightly coat the chicken breasts or thighs in flour (all-purpose or gluten-free). Heat a little olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat, then sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. This step locks in juices and adds depth of flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip searing and place the chicken directly in the slow cooker.
- Build the Sauce in the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken in the crock pot. Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, then add the capers, minced garlic, and butter. Gently stir or simply cover with the lid and let the flavors come together during cooking.
- Slow Cook Until Tender: Cook the chicken on LOW for 4–5 hours for juicy, tender results, or on HIGH for 2.5–3 hours if you’re pressed for time. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender enough to shred lightly with a fork.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): For a richer, glossy sauce, remove ¼ cup of hot broth from the slow cooker. Whisk it together with 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch until smooth, then stir it back into the crock pot. Continue cooking on HIGH for an additional 15–20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley and add a few thin lemon slices for brightness. Pair with your favorite side : roasted asparagus, green beans, lemon rice, mashed potatoes, cauliflower rice, or gluten-free pasta all work beautifully.
Notes
- If you use thighs instead of breasts, calories and fat will be slightly higher.
- Using a cornstarch slurry instead of flour will reduce carbs a little.
- Gluten-free flour does not significantly change the nutrition profile.
- Pairing with pasta, rice, or potatoes will increase carbs & calories, while pairing with roasted veggies or salad keeps it lighter.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: ~310 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1 g
- Sugars: 1 g
-
Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Potassium: 480 mg
If you enjoy this recipe, please leave a rating and a comment below! We’d appreciate any tips or photos of your results. Thank you for being part of our community!
FAQs about Crock Pot Chicken Piccata
What to serve with chicken piccata?
Chicken piccata pairs well with sides like roasted asparagus or green beans, lemon or cauliflower rice, a mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette, garlic mashed potatoes, and gluten-free pasta.
Is chicken piccata gluten-free?
Chicken piccata can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour to coat the chicken. Be sure to check all other ingredients, such as the broth and capers, to ensure they are gluten-free. This dish can be enjoyed by those with dietary restrictions when prepared with the right substitutions.
Can I make this recipe low-carb?
Yes, Crock Pot Chicken Piccata can easily be made low-carb! Pair it with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles (zoodles), a simple green salad with light vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus.
Does cooking chicken in the crockpot longer make it more tender?
Yes, cooking chicken in the crockpot for a longer period allows the connective tissues in the meat to break down, resulting in a more tender texture. However, be careful not to overcook it, as it can become too soft and mushy. Aim for 4–6 hours on low heat for optimal tenderness.
How long will cooked chicken piccata last in the fridge?
Cooked chicken piccata will last in the fridge for up to 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container. For the best flavor and texture, be sure to store the chicken and sauce separately if possible.
Can chicken piccata be made ahead and reheated?
Yes, chicken piccata can be made ahead and reheated! It’s perfect for meal prep. Simply store the cooked chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers, and reheat the chicken on the stovetop or microwave when you’re ready to eat.
What do you garnish chicken piccata with?
For a touch of color and extra flavor, garnish chicken piccata with fresh parsley or basil, thin slices of lemon, and a few extra capers for a salty, briny bite.
How do you keep chicken from drying out in a slow cooker?
To prevent chicken from drying out in the slow cooker, try these tips: use bone-in chicken for extra moisture, add a bit of broth or water to keep the chicken moist, and avoid overcooking by sticking to the recommended cooking time for tender, juicy chicken.
Can you put raw chicken in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can put raw chicken in a slow cooker. In fact, it’s one of the most convenient ways to cook chicken. Just be sure to cook it at the right temperature and for the appropriate time to ensure it’s safe to eat.
How long can you leave chicken in the crockpot on low?
You can leave chicken in the crockpot on low for 4–6 hours without it becoming overcooked. If you need it to cook for longer, consider keeping it on keep warm or checking occasionally to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
Should chicken be cooked on low or high in a slow cooker?
For the most tender and flavorful results, it’s best to cook chicken on low in the slow cooker. This allows the meat to become tender without drying out. Cooking on high may cook the chicken faster but can result in drier meat.
Why does chicken get watery in crockpot?
Chicken can get watery in the crockpot if there’s too much liquid or if the chicken is cooked with its skin on, which can release moisture. To avoid this, use less liquid and remove the skin before cooking, if possible.