This easy Crock Pot dish features juicy chicken thighs cooked in a tasty lemon garlic butter sauce. It’s a set-and-forget meal that fills your home with yummy aromas!
I love how the chicken comes out so tender and flavorful after a long, slow cook. Just serve it with rice or veggies, and you’ve got a comforting meal ready without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs adds flavor and moisture. For a lighter option, you could use skinless thighs or even chicken breasts, but they may not be as juicy.
Butter: The unsalted butter in this recipe creates a rich sauce. If you need a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that zesty punch. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work as a substitute, but the flavor won’t be quite as vibrant.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is ideal for the best taste. If you can’t get fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will do, just use a little less as it’s usually stronger.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Tender?
The secret to perfectly tender chicken thighs in the crock pot is to allow enough time for cooking. Here’s how you can ensure success:
- Season the chicken well before browning; this infuses flavor.
- Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth to the dish. Don’t skip this step!
- Cook on low for 5-6 hours for maximum tenderness, as low and slow is key when it comes to crock pot meals.
- Always check the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked through.
Easy Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (half a stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
For Garnish:
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Red pepper flakes, to taste (for a touch of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes to prep and 5-6 hours to cook on low (or 2-3 hours on high) in the crock pot. It’s a wonderful option for busy days, as you can set everything up and let it cook while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken thighs generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika on both sides. This will add delicious flavors to your dish!
2. Browning the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Then, flip them over and brown the other side for another 3 minutes. This will help lock in the flavors. After browning, transfer the chicken to the crock pot.
3. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. This adds extra flavor!
4. Combining in the Crock Pot:
Pour this flavorful lemon garlic butter sauce over the chicken thighs in the crock pot, ensuring they are covered well.
5. Cooking:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Garnishing and Serving:
When ready to serve, garnish the chicken with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Spoon the buttery sauce over the top, and enjoy your meal with sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables!
This recipe promises tender, flavorful chicken and a luscious buttery sauce, making it a perfect meal with minimal effort. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! They will cook faster, so reduce the cooking time to about 4 hours on low or 1.5-2 hours on high to ensure they stay tender and juicy.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
For a healthier twist, you can skip the browning step, use skinless chicken thighs, and substitute half of the butter with olive oil or low-fat cooking spray. You can also add extra vegetables to the crock pot for more nutrients!
Can I Prepare This Meal the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can season the chicken and prepare the sauce the night before. Store them separately in the fridge, then combine them in the crock pot in the morning to cook throughout the day.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to help keep the chicken moist.
