If you have ever dreamed of a meal that is bursting with flavor yet requires almost zero fuss, the Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines the zesty brightness of fresh lemon, the earthy warmth of garlic, and the rich creaminess of butter to create an irresistible sauce that lovingly coats tender chicken thighs. Cooking low and slow in the crock pot ensures the chicken stays juicy and falls apart with just a touch of your fork, making this recipe a weeknight hero and family favorite all in one.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but completely essential in crafting the perfect balance of tang, savor, and a touch of heat that makes this dish sing. Each component adds a layer of flavor or texture that elevates this meal from ordinary to extraordinary.
- 6-8 boneless chicken thighs, skinless or with skin: The star of the dish, these remain juicy and soak up all the wonderful flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper: Fundamental seasonings to enhance every other flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a steady background garlic warmth that harmonizes with fresh garlic.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes (optional): Provides a gentle kick for those who like a little heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: A mild smokiness and vibrant color to deepen the palette.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that adds complexity and brightness.
- 4 garlic cloves, sliced or minced: Fresh garlic infuses a punch of pungent, aromatic flavor.
- 1/2 stick butter (about 4 tablespoons), diced: Creates the luscious sauce that makes this dish truly comforting.
- Zest of half a lemon: Intensifies lemon flavor with pure citrus oils.
- Juice of one lemon: Freshly squeezed for natural acidity and freshness.
- 1/3 cup low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and enhances umami.
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness.
- Lemon slices, for garnish: Lovely for presentation and an extra citrus note.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Place the boneless chicken thighs neatly at the bottom of the crock pot. Spreading them out evenly helps ensure they cook uniformly and soak up all those fantastic flavors from the sauce.
Step 2: Mix the liquids
In a small bowl, whisk together the low sodium chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Pour this fragrant mixture evenly over the chicken, infusing each piece with a fresh, citrusy brightness that will complement the richness of the butter.
Step 3: Season the chicken
In another bowl, blend the Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, crushed red chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix generously over the chicken thighs. This step creates the foundational layers of bold and balanced flavor that will shine throughout the dish.
Step 4: Add garlic and butter
Scatter the sliced or minced fresh garlic over the chicken, then evenly distribute the diced butter on top. As the butter melts during cooking, it mingles with the garlic and spices, crafting a luxuriously savory sauce.
Step 5: Cook the chicken
Cover your crock pot and cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours or on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking method allows the chicken thighs to become tender and juicy, practically melting into the rich lemon garlic butter sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
When the cooking time is done, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and garnish with lemon slices. This adds both visual appeal and a fresh herbal finish to your beautiful meal.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond parsley and lemon slices, consider a light drizzle of extra melted butter or a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan cheese. These touches add indulgence and make your presentation shine even more.
Side Dishes
Cauliflower rice, spiralized zucchini noodles, fluffy rice, pasta, or quinoa all pair beautifully with the Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe. The lightness of these sides complements the rich, zesty sauce while rounding out the meal with perfect texture contrasts.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this chicken atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or polenta for a cozy, soul-warming dinner. For a fresh twist, layer it over a mixed greens salad for a warm-meets-cool sensation that works for lunch or dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to deepen over time, making your next meal just as delicious.
Freezing
This dish freezes well. Place portions in freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave to maintain moisture. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help revive the sauce’s creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs will add extra flavor and remain wonderfully juicy. Just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is it necessary to add butter?
The butter is key to creating the luscious sauce that gives this recipe its signature richness and mouthfeel. While you could reduce the amount, leaving it out would significantly change the dish’s character.
Can I adjust the spiciness?
Yes! If you prefer no heat, simply omit the crushed red chili flakes. For more warmth, increase them slightly or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
What if I don’t have a crock pot? Can I make this on the stove?
You can try simmering it gently on the stove over low heat, covered, for about 45 minutes to an hour until the chicken is tender. Just keep a close eye and stir occasionally to avoid burning.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and check any seasoning blends to ensure they contain no gluten ingredients.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Lemon Garlic Butter Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe enough if you want an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner with incredible flavor. It’s simple, hands-off cooking that delivers juicy, flavorful chicken every single time. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your meal rotation.
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
Description
A flavorful and tender Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs recipe cooked slowly in a crock pot, infusing juicy chicken with bright citrus, savory garlic, and buttery richness. Perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs and spices, this slow-cooked dish is easy to prepare and ideal for a comforting family 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
Liquids 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 evenly at the bottom of your crock pot or slow cooker 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 add a fresh citrus flavor.
- Season the chicken: In another bowl, mix 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.
- Add garlic and butter: Top the seasoned chicken with sliced or minced garlic cloves, then scatter the diced butter evenly over the chicken to create a rich buttery sauce while cooking.
- Cook the chicken: Cover the crock pot and cook the chicken thighs on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, or alternatively on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, until the chicken is tender and thoroughly cooked.
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and garnish with lemon slices. Serve alongside cauliflower rice, spiralized zucchini noodles, rice, pasta, or quinoa for a complete meal.
Notes
- Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures even cooking and juicy results, but skin-on can be used for extra flavor.
- You can adjust the crushed red chili flakes or cayenne for desired spice level or omit for milder taste.
- Low sodium chicken broth helps control the saltiness of the dish and maintains balanced flavors.
- Cook time may vary slightly depending on your crock pot model and thickness of chicken thighs.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices just before serving to enhance presentation and flavor.
