If you’ve been dreaming of a comfort dish that bursts with flavor without any fuss, the Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe is exactly what you need in your weekly rotation. Tender, juicy chicken thighs slowly cooked with fragrant garlic, zesty lemon, and rich butter create an irresistible harmony of taste that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe is a brilliant way to make a wholesome meal that’s both simple to prepare and consistently mouthwatering, perfect for busy days or leisurely weekends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward, yet every single one plays a crucial role in building the unforgettable layers of flavor and texture in this dish. From the fresh lemon zest to the comforting butter, each adds its own magic to make your dinner truly special.
- 6-8 boneless chicken thighs: Skin-on or skinless, these juicy thighs are packed with flavor and stay tender during slow cooking.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper: The essential seasonings that elevate all the ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlicky goodness beyond the fresh cloves.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional): A gentle kick to contrast the rich butter and citrus.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Offers mild smokiness and beautiful color.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A mixture of herbs that brings Italian-inspired warmth and complexity.
- 4 garlic cloves, sliced or minced: Fresh garlic that melts into the sauce, making every bite aromatic.
- 1/2 stick butter (about 4 tablespoons), diced: Creates a luscious, velvety coating that keeps the chicken moist.
- Zest of half a lemon: Brightens the dish with fresh citrus oils.
- Juice of one lemon: Adds vibrant tanginess that cuts through the richness.
- 1/3 cup low sodium chicken broth: Prevents sticking and forms the base of the flavorful sauce.
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish: Provides a splash of color and fresh herbal brightness.
- Lemon slices, for garnish: Enhances presentation and doubles down on citrus flair.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe
Step 1: Arrange the Chicken Thighs
Start by placing your boneless chicken thighs in a single layer at the bottom of the crock pot. Spacing them evenly ensures that each piece cooks thoroughly and absorbs the delicious flavors evenly. This simple step lays the foundation for tender, juicy results.
Step 2: Mix and Pour the Lemon Broth
In a small bowl, combine fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and low sodium chicken broth. Pour this bright mixture carefully over the chicken thighs. The fresh lemon adds a lovely citrus punch that beautifully complements the richness of the butter and garlic.
Step 3: Season to Perfection
Whisk together Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, red chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper in another bowl. Sprinkle this aromatic blend evenly over the chicken. The spices create an herby, slightly smoky backdrop against the lemon and butter, making every bite exciting.
Step 4: Add Fresh Garlic and Butter
Scatter the fresh garlic over the seasoned chicken, and then distribute the diced butter on top. This step is key—it infuses the dish with rich, savory flavor as the butter melts and mingles with the lemon and spices during cooking.
Step 5: Slow Cook with Patience
Cover your crock pot and cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours or on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. This low and slow technique allows all the flavors to develop beautifully and guarantees tender, fall-apart chicken thighs that soak up the buttery lemon garlic sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Get Ready to Enjoy
Once the cooking time is up, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken for a pop of freshness and color. Add lemon slices on top to make the presentation bright and inviting. Now, your mouthwatering Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe is ready to serve!
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley adds not only a touch of vibrant green but also a mild, fresh flavor that balances the richness. Lemon slices aren’t just pretty—they invite an extra burst of citrus aroma as you dig in. These simple garnishes elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
This chicken is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with light options like cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb meal. For something heartier, traditional steamed rice, fluffy quinoa, or creamy pasta all soak up that luscious sauce perfectly. Pick your favorite to complete the meal effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the chicken alongside vibrant roasted vegetables for a colorful plate. You can also shred leftovers and toss with warm crusty bread for sandwiches or wrap fillings. For a brunch twist, place a chicken thigh on top of buttery grits with a drizzle of the sauce—delicious comfort in every bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerate any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container within two hours of cooking. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to four days, making weekday dinners a breeze when you need quick meals with big flavor.
Freezing
This dish freezes very well. Place cooled chicken and sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. Frozen portions are best used within three months, perfect for stocking your freezer with an easy, delicious dinner option.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Warming slowly preserves the tender texture and encourages the flavors to bloom all over again.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs add extra depth of flavor, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through. Just keep an eye on tenderness before serving.
Is it necessary to use butter, or can I substitute something else?
Butter brings a rich, creamy element that pairs wonderfully with lemon and garlic. You could try olive oil for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be quite as luscious or velvety.
Can I prepare this recipe without a crock pot?
Yes, but the magic of slow cooking is in its gentle, even heat that tenderizes the chicken and melds flavors. If using an oven, bake covered at 325°F (160°C) for about 45-60 minutes or until tender, checking periodically.
How spicy is this dish?
The chili flakes are optional and used sparingly. If you prefer mild flavors, simply leave them out. Alternatively, add a pinch more if you enjoy a subtle heat that balances the buttery citrus notes.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! You can mix your own with dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. This homemade blend will work perfectly to provide that classic herby touch referenced in the recipe.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that feels both indulgent and effortless, the Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s wonderfully flavorful, incredibly tender, and great for any occasion. Once you try it, I promise it will become a trusted go-to that you’ll want to make again and again.
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Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours on HIGH or 6 to 8 hours on LOW
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes (HIGH) or 6 hours 10 minutes (LOW)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs recipe offers tender, flavorful chicken thighs slow-cooked to perfection with a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. Utilizing a crock pot, the recipe makes an easy and effortless meal that’s packed with bright citrus notes and savory herbs, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 6–8 boneless chicken thighs, skinless or with skin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes, or Cayenne (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Garlic and Butter Mixture
- 4 garlic cloves, sliced or minced
- 1/2 stick butter, diced (approximately 4 tablespoons)
Lemon and Broth
- Zest of half a lemon
- Juice of one lemon
- 1/3 cup low sodium chicken broth
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Place the boneless chicken thighs in the bottom of your crock pot or slow cooker, making sure they are arranged evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Mix Lemon Broth: In a small bowl, combine the low sodium chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Pour this citrus mixture evenly over the chicken thighs to infuse bright lemon flavor.
- Season Chicken: In another small bowl, mix together Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, crushed red chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this blend generously over the chicken thighs to build a balanced and aromatic profile.
- Add Garlic and Butter: Top the seasoned chicken with the sliced or minced fresh garlic cloves and scatter the diced butter evenly on top to create a rich and savory sauce during cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the crock pot and cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, or alternatively on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and garnish with lemon slices. Serve with cauliflower rice, spiralized zucchini noodles, rice, pasta, or quinoa for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can use chicken thighs with skin for extra flavor or skinless for a leaner option.
- Adjust crushed red chili flakes or cayenne pepper to control the heat level to your preference.
- Butter can be substituted with olive oil for a lighter option but will change the flavor profile.
- For even more lemon flavor, add extra lemon zest or a few lemon slices inside the crock pot during cooking.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- This recipe pairs well with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice for a gluten-free or keto-friendly meal.
