Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Introduction

Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs is a mouthwatering, flavorful dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. The rich, savory taste of chicken thighs is perfectly complemented by the bright, tangy flavors of lemon and garlic, creating a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. The best part? It’s all made in the Crock Pot, which means it’s super easy to prepare and practically cooks itself, leaving you with a tender, juicy chicken that’s bursting with flavor.

I’ve made this recipe on several occasions, and it’s always a hit! One of my favorite things about it is how the slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious lemon and garlic flavors, resulting in meat that’s not only tender but also incredibly flavorful. The golden, buttery finish that forms at the end is like the cherry on top—it’s the kind of dish that makes you want to savor every bite.

What’s great about Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs is that it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to serve to guests. Pair it with your favorite side dishes—rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad—and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress without all the fuss. So, whether you’re in need of an easy dinner or want something to wow your guests, this Crock Pot recipe has you covered.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Family gatherings
• Comfort food lovers
• Easy-to-make meals
• Chicken thigh enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Here’s why Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs will become a go-to meal:

• Effortless Cooking: With the Crock Pot doing most of the work, this recipe requires minimal hands-on preparation, making it perfect for busy days.
• Juicy and Tender Chicken: The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken thighs stay incredibly moist and tender, making each bite melt in your mouth.
• Bright, Zesty Flavor: The lemon and garlic add a refreshing and bold flavor to the dish, creating a balanced, savory profile.
• Buttery Goodness: The butter adds richness and a silky texture, elevating the chicken to a new level of indulgence.
• One-Pot Meal: Everything cooks in the Crock Pot, reducing cleanup time and making it an ideal dish for easy meals.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 4 hours (on high) or 6 hours (on low)
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 6g, Fat: 30g

Ingredients

For this flavorful Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs are used because they remain juicy and flavorful during the slow cooking process.
• Butter and Olive Oil: A combination of butter and olive oil ensures the chicken gets rich flavor and a crispy finish, even when cooked low and slow.
• Lemon: Both the juice and zest of the lemon bring a bright, refreshing flavor that balances the richness of the butter.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the dish its aromatic, savory flavor, complementing the lemon and herbs perfectly.
• Herbs: Dried rosemary and thyme enhance the flavor of the chicken with their earthy, fragrant notes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Combine Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Place Chicken in Crock Pot: Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs in the bottom of the Crock Pot. Pour the butter mixture evenly over the chicken.

Cook the Chicken:

4. Add Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth around the chicken thighs in the Crock Pot to ensure moisture and prevent burning.
5. Cook on Low or High: Cover the Crock Pot with the lid. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Finishing Touches:

6. Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the Crock Pot and transfer it to a serving platter. Spoon some of the cooking juices from the Crock Pot over the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges before serving.

How to Serve Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs can be served in various ways for a complete and delicious meal:

• With Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts for a hearty meal.
• With Mashed Potatoes: The creamy mashed potatoes will complement the richness of the chicken and butter sauce beautifully.
• With a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the chicken.
• As a Sandwich: Shred the chicken and use it for sandwiches or wraps, topped with some extra sauce and fresh veggies.

Additional Tips for Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Here are some tips to help you perfect your Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs:

• Don’t Skip the Searing (Optional): For extra flavor, sear the chicken thighs in a skillet before placing them in the Crock Pot. This will develop a rich, golden crust and enhance the flavor.
• Use Bone-In, Skinless Thighs: The bone-in, skinless variety ensures the chicken stays juicy while absorbing all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
• Adjust the Herbs: Feel free to use other herbs, such as oregano or basil, to customize the flavor to your liking.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for a slight kick of heat.
• Double the Sauce: If you love a lot of sauce, simply double the butter and broth for extra moisture and flavor.

Recipe Variations for Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Here are 10 variations you can try for Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs:

• Honey Garlic Butter Chicken: Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey to the butter mixture for a sweet and savory twist.
• Crispy Chicken Skin: For extra crispy skin, sear the chicken thighs with skin on before placing them in the Crock Pot.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the butter mixture for a cheesy, savory flavor.
• Lemon Herb Chicken: Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme to the sauce for an even fresher flavor.
• Spicy Lemon Chicken: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili flakes or a diced jalapeño to the butter mixture for a spicy kick.
• Lemon Cream Sauce: After cooking, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the sauce for a creamy finish.
• Mediterranean Style: Add olives and sun-dried tomatoes to the Crock Pot for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Slow Cooker Chicken with Veggies: Add sliced onions, bell peppers, and zucchini to the Crock Pot to cook along with the chicken for a complete one-pot meal.
• Coconut Lemon Chicken: Replace the chicken broth with coconut milk for a tropical twist on the sauce.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Mushrooms: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the Crock Pot for an earthy, savory flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or Crock Pot before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The chicken will stay moist and flavorful thanks to the butter and broth.

Special Equipment for Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Here are some special equipment items that will make preparing your Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs even easier:

• Crock Pot/Slow Cooker: The key piece of equipment for this recipe, allowing you to cook the chicken slowly and effortlessly.
• Skillet (Optional): For searing the chicken before slow cooking, if you prefer a crispy exterior.
• Basting Brush: To evenly coat the chicken with the garlic butter mixture.
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and perfect doneness.
• Tongs: For easily transferring the chicken thighs in and out of the Crock Pot without disturbing the skin or meat.
• Lemon Zester: For easily zesting the lemon without wasting any of the peel.

FAQ Section for Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
   Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work as well. Just be sure to reduce the cooking time slightly as they cook faster than bone-in thighs.
2. Can I cook this recipe on high for less time?
   Yes, cooking on high for 4 hours is a great option if you’re in a hurry. Just ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
3. What can I substitute for chicken broth?
   You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or white wine for a different flavor profile.
4. Can I make this recipe without butter?
   Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil for a lighter version of the dish.
5. What other sides would go well with this chicken?
   In addition to rice, mashed potatoes, and vegetables, you could serve this chicken with couscous, quinoa, or even a crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

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Conclusion

Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs is the perfect comfort food that brings together juicy chicken, zesty lemon, savory garlic, and rich butter in one simple dish. With minimal prep time and the convenience of slow cooking, this meal is ideal for busy days when you want something delicious without the hassle. The tender chicken thighs soak up all the flavors, making each bite melt-in-your-mouth good.

This dish is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad, making it a great option for family dinners or casual gatherings. The combination of lemon and garlic adds a bright and savory touch, while the butter creates a creamy richness that complements the chicken beautifully.

I can’t wait to see how your Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs turn out! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Feel free to leave a comment and share how you made this dish your own! Enjoy!