Description
This Crockpot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken cooked slowly in a rich lemon garlic butter sauce. Seasoned with a blend of paprika, garlic, and onion powders, and finished with fresh lemon zest and parsley, this comforting dish requires minimal prep and yields juicy, melt-in-your-mouth results perfect for an easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 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 Garlic Butter Sauce
- 1 medium lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, cut into slices
To Garnish (optional)
- 1 medium lemon, sliced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place 3 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs evenly in the bottom of a 5 to 6-quart slow cooker to create an even layer for cooking.
- Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to blend all spices evenly.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker, ensuring all pieces are well coated for maximum flavor.
- Add Lemon and Garlic: Zest and juice one medium lemon. Pour the lemon juice over the chicken, then sprinkle the lemon zest and 1 tablespoon minced garlic evenly on top.
- Add Butter: Dot the butter slices (6 tablespoons) over the top of the chicken pieces to infuse rich, buttery flavor throughout the slow cooking process.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 3 hours. The chicken is done when it is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 172°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Optional—slice one medium lemon and sprinkle 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley over the cooked chicken. Serve hot, spooning the juicy sauce from the slow cooker over the top.
Notes
- Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for the best texture and even cooking in the crockpot.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level to your preference.
- Butter adds richness and a silky texture—do not skip or replace without considering fat content.
- Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker model; always check internal temperature to ensure safety.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently to maintain moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4-5 oz chicken)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
