Description
This Crockpot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs recipe offers tender, juicy chicken infused with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and rich butter flavors. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is an easy, comforting meal perfect for busy days that requires minimal prep but delivers maximum taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Lemon and Garlic
- 1 medium lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
Butter
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, cut into slices
Garnish (Optional)
- 1 medium lemon, sliced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place 3 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs at the bottom of a 5 to 6-quart slow cooker, spreading them out evenly.
- Mix the Spices: In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to blend all the seasonings.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the chicken thighs ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Add Lemon and Garlic: Zest and juice 1 medium lemon. Pour the lemon juice over the chicken in the slow cooker. Then sprinkle the lemon zest and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic on top of the chicken.
- Top with Butter: Dot the chicken with 6 tablespoons of salted butter, cut into tablespoon-size pieces, distributing them across the surface.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for about 3 hours. The chicken is done when it is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 172°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, slice 1 medium lemon and scatter the slices on top of the cooked chicken. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Serve hot, drizzled with the flavorful cooking juices.
Notes
- Using boneless skinless thighs ensures even cooking and easy shredding if desired.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your heat preference or omit for milder flavor.
- Butter adds richness and helps keep the chicken moist during slow cooking.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is safely cooked.
- Leftovers reheat well and can be used in wraps, salads, or alongside vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 4-5 ounces chicken)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
