Ingredients List for the Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Chicken:
6-8 boneless chicken thighs, skinless or with skin
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 teaspoon paprika
4 garlic cloves, sliced or minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 stick butter, diced
Zest of half a lemon
Juice of one lemon
1/3 cup chicken stock
For Garnish:
Chopped fresh parsley
Lemon slices.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Arrange the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker. You can use either skinless or skin-on thighs depending on your preference.
Mix the Lemon Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the chicken stock, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well to combine, then pour this mixture over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Create the Spice Mix: In another small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, crushed red chili pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Season the Chicken: Sprinkle this spice mix evenly over the chicken thighs. Make sure each piece is well coated to ensure maximum flavor.
Add Garlic and Butter: Scatter the minced or sliced garlic over the chicken, then top with diced butter. The butter will melt as the chicken cooks, creating a rich and flavorful sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Set the Crock Pot: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or on LOW for 6-8 hours. The longer, slower cooking time on the low setting will yield the most tender results.
Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it’s tender and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of the chicken thighs and the specific model of your slow cooker.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Garnish: Once the chicken is cooked, garnish it with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Serve: Serve your Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with cauliflower rice, spiralized zucchini noodles, rice, pasta, or quinoa.
Tips for Making the Best Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest will give the dish a bright, vibrant flavor that’s hard to achieve with bottled lemon juice.
Adjust the Spice: If you like a bit of heat, feel free to increase the amount of crushed red chili pepper flakes or cayenne. If you prefer a milder dish, you can omit them altogether.
Bone-In vs. Boneless: While this recipe calls for boneless chicken thighs, you can also use bone-in thighs or drumsticks. Just be aware that bone-in chicken may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken once it’s done and cook the sauce on the stove over medium heat, stirring until it reduces to your desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts may cook faster and can dry out more easily, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans can be added to the slow cooker. Just place them under or around the chicken thighs so they cook evenly.
Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What can I do with the leftover sauce?
A: The lemon garlic butter sauce is delicious and can be drizzled over vegetables, used as a base for soups, or even as a flavorful pasta sauce.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple, yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. With minimal prep and the magic of the slow cooker, you can have a delicious, tender chicken dish that’s bursting with the fresh flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs. Whether you’re serving it with a side of pasta, rice, or veggies, it’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this delightful dish and savor the effortless combination of bold flavors and tender, juicy chicken!
