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
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
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.
