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
Scale
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.
