Introduction
Dive into a dish that combines the bright, zesty flavors of lemon with the rich, comforting essence of garlic and butter: Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, allowing you to set it and forget it while your slow cooker works its magic.
The tender, juicy chicken thighs soak up the aromatic blend of spices, garlic, and fresh lemon, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Serve it alongside your choice of sides, from cauliflower rice to pasta, and watch as everyone gathers around the table for a deliciously comforting dinner. Get ready to enjoy a delightful culinary experience that’s as simple as it is scrumptious!
Ingredients
6-8 boneless chicken thighs (skinless or with skin)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
½ teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes (or cayenne, optional)
½ teaspoon paprika
4 garlic cloves, sliced or minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ stick butter, diced
Zest of ½ lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
⅓ cup chicken stock
Chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices, for garnish
Directions
Prepare the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker.
Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine ⅓ cup chicken stock, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Pour this mixture over the chicken thighs.
Season the Chicken:
In another small bowl, mix together the Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, crushed red chili pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this spice mix evenly over the chicken thighs.
Add Garlic and Butter:
Top the chicken with the sliced or minced garlic and diced butter.
Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or on LOW for 6-8 hours.
Storage Method
Refrigeration
Cool Down:
Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation in the container.
Use Airtight Containers:
Transfer the leftover chicken and sauce into airtight containers. Make sure to include the sauce to keep the chicken moist.
Refrigerate:
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
Cool Completely:
Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before freezing to avoid ice crystals.
Portion and Wrap:
Divide the chicken into portions if desired. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Use Freezer Bags:
Place the wrapped portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with the date for easy reference.
Freeze:
Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating
From Refrigerator:
Reheat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
From Freezer:
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if needed to maintain moisture.