If you’re searching for a dish that’s both effortlessly delicious and packed with vibrant flavors, look no further than this Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe. It’s an absolute game-changer for busy days when you want a comforting, juicy meal with minimal fuss. The tender chicken thighs soak up a luxurious blend of zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and creamy butter, slow-cooked to perfection so every bite bursts with mouthwatering goodness. This recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and brightness to your dinner table, making it one of my all-time favorites to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a rich taste experience without any complicated steps. Each element contributes something special—whether it’s the lemon’s citrus punch, the butter’s creamy richness, or the garlic’s fragrant depth.
- Boneless chicken thighs (6-8): Chicken thighs stay juicy and tender, perfect for slow cooking in the crock pot.
- Salt and pepper (1/2 teaspoon each, or to taste): Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavor of the chicken.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds concentrated garlic flavor that complements fresh garlic.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Provides a subtle sweetness and depth to the seasoning mix.
- Crushed red chili flakes or Cayenne (1/2 teaspoon, optional): A touch of heat for those who like it spicy.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a smoky aroma and beautiful color to the dish.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant herb blend that layers flavor and complexity.
- Fresh garlic cloves (4, sliced or minced): Delivers bright, aromatic garlic that melds beautifully with butter.
- Butter (1/2 stick or 4 tablespoons, diced): Creates a silky, indulgent sauce that coats the chicken.
- Lemon zest of half a lemon: Bursts of citrus oils brighten each bite.
- Lemon juice of one lemon: Adds fresh, tangy acidity essential for balance.
- Low sodium chicken broth (1/3 cup): Keeps the chicken moist while adding savory notes.
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous flavor.
- Lemon slices (for garnish): Enhances presentation and invites more citrus aroma.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by arranging your boneless chicken thighs evenly at the bottom of the crock pot. Whether skin-on or skinless, laying them out flat ensures even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
Step 2: Mix the Liquids
In a small bowl, combine the low sodium chicken broth with fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Pour this bright, zesty mixture over the chicken thighs to infuse them with a fragrant citrus essence during cooking.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Mix Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, crushed red chili flakes if you like heat, and salt and pepper together. Generously sprinkle this flavorful blend over the chicken, building layers of aromatic goodness that will deepen as they slow cook.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Butter
Top your seasoned chicken with the sliced or minced fresh garlic cloves and evenly scatter diced butter over everything. This step guarantees a luscious, buttery garlic sauce that transforms the dish into pure comfort food magic.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Cover the crock pot and cook the chicken thighs on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours or LOW for 6 to 8 hours. Slow cooking brings out incredible tenderness while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is perfectly tender and infused with buttery lemon garlic richness.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once your chicken is cooked, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and add lemon slices as garnish for a fresh, bright contrast. The presentation looks stunning and gives the dish a lovely final citrus note that ties everything together.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and light herbal freshness, while lemon slices not only look beautiful but bring extra citrus aroma to every serving. These simple garnishes elevate the dish’s visual appeal and taste.
Side Dishes
This Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides like cauliflower rice, spiralized zucchini noodles, fluffy rice, cozy pasta, or nutritious quinoa. Each choice soaks up the buttery lemon sauce perfectly, creating a complete and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the chicken atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for varied textures. You can also twirl the chicken with linguine or toss it into a vibrant salad bowl with fresh greens and avocado to switch things up while keeping all those flavors front and center.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, the chicken will stay tasty and safe to eat for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day meals.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freezing the cooked chicken thighs is a fantastic option. Pack the cooled chicken and sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags, label them, and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warm, making sure to stir the sauce occasionally so everything stays moist and delicious. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much while stored.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in thighs will also work well in this recipe, and they tend to add even more flavor and juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the meat is fully cooked through.
Is it necessary to use fresh lemon juice and zest?
Fresh lemon juice and zest provide vibrant citrus flavors that bottled versions often lack, so I highly recommend using fresh lemons for this dish. It really lifts the entire recipe with brightness and aroma.
Can I make this recipe without butter?
Butter plays a key role in creating the rich, silky sauce in this recipe, but if needed, you could substitute with olive oil for a lighter version. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
How spicy is the recipe with the chili flakes?
The crushed red chili flakes add just a gentle kick of heat—it’s not overwhelming, but you can easily adjust the amount or leave it out if you prefer no spice. The other seasonings keep the flavor balanced and tasty without needing heat.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, this Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe scales up really well. Just make sure your crock pot is large enough to hold all the chicken and sauce, and adjust cooking times if needed since a fuller pot might take a bit longer to cook.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe quickly became a staple in my kitchen because it combines ease, comfort, and bold, wonderful flavor all in one pot. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy the juicy, buttery, and citrusy magic that slow cooking brings. It’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!
Print
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 to 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken infused with bright citrus and aromatic herbs. Slow-cooked in a rich butter and garlic sauce with hints of paprika and crushed chili flakes, it’s an effortless one-pot meal perfect for busy days. Garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices, this comforting dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides like cauliflower rice or quinoa.
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
Sauce and Garnish
- 4 garlic cloves, sliced or minced
- 1/2 stick butter, diced (approximately 4 tablespoons)
- Zest of half a lemon
- Juice of one lemon
- 1/3 cup low sodium chicken broth
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Place the boneless chicken thighs at the bottom of your crock pot or slow cooker, arranging them evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Mix the liquids: In a small bowl, combine the low sodium chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken thighs to infuse a bright citrus flavor.
- Season the 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 seasoning blend generously over the chicken thighs for balanced and aromatic taste.
- Add garlic and butter: Top the seasoned chicken with the sliced or minced fresh garlic cloves, then scatter the diced butter evenly over the meat to create a rich, savory sauce as it cooks.
- Cook the chicken: Cover the crock pot and cook the chicken thighs on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, or on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, until the chicken is tender and thoroughly cooked.
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked, sprinkle the chicken thighs with chopped fresh parsley and garnish with lemon slices before serving. Pair with your choice of cauliflower rice, spiralized zucchini noodles, rice, pasta, or quinoa for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red chili flakes or substitute with cayenne pepper.
- Skin-on chicken thighs can be used for a slightly different texture and added flavor.
- Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- This recipe works great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.
- Butter can be substituted with olive oil for a lighter version.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best citrus flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
