Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Recipe

This crock pot recipe features bone in chicken thighs immersed in an exquisite lemon garlic butter sauce. Slow-cooked until tender, the chicken absorbs layered flavors from fresh garlic and zesty lemon, while optional parsley and lemon slices add vibrant notes. The result is a comforting and effortlessly delicious meal perfect for any dinner table.

I want to share my recipe for Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs that is really satisfying and easy to prepare. I start with 6 bone in, skin on chicken thighs seasoned with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.

Then I add 4 garlic cloves minced, though you can use more if you really love garlic. Next I squeeze the juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons) into the pot along with 4 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into chunks.

I also include 1/4 cup chicken broth to make a rich, savory sauce that really seeps into the chicken as it cooks slowly. The cooking process retains the protein quality and B vitamins of the meat while also making it tender.

I sometimes garnish with lemon slices and fresh chopped parsley for a hint of vitamin K and an extra pop of flavor. This dish is simple yet packed with nutritional value.

Why I Like this Recipe

I love this recipe because it makes the chicken so unbelievably tender and juicy. The crockpot just does its thing overnight so I can literally throw everything in and forget about it until dinner time.

I also really dig how the lemon garlic butter sauce comes together. The mix of tangy lemon with that rich butter and garlic really makes the flavor pop and keeps me coming back for more.

Another thing is that it’s super simple to make. I don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen, which is perfect for busy days when I just wanna have a good meal without all the hassle.

Lastly, seeing the nice golden color from the browned skin and even a few lemon slices on top makes it look as good as it tastes. It’s those little details that really add to the whole experience.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs deliver protein, healthy fats, and intense, savory flavor that makes every bite satisfying.
• Garlic boosts antioxidant benefits while addin a zesty, robust, and spicy kick to the dish.
• Lemon gives a tangy, sour burst full of refreshing vitamin C energy for a bright twist.
• Butter adds creamy texture and gentle richness, balancing the bright lemon and garlic perfectly.
• Chicken broth introduces savory depth, keeping the dish moist during the slow cook process.
• Parsley brightens the dish with a mild, fresh herbal note that finishes it nicely.
• Lemon slices garnish provides decorative tang, enhancing appearance with extra citrus zing.
• Salt and pepper elevate natural flavors and season every bite perfectly.
• Each ingredient plays its part to create a comforting, hearty, and satisfying meal.

Ingredient Quantities

• 6 bone in, skin on chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 garlic cloves, minced (or more if you really love garlic)
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
• Fresh chopped parsley for finishing (optional)

How to Make this

1. Season the chicken thighs by rubbing them with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.

2. Place the chicken in your crock pot with the skin side up.

3. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the chicken; if you really love garlic, you might want to add a bit extra.

4. Squeeze the juice of one lemon (about 3 tablespoons) evenly over the thighs.

5. Distribute the chunks of unsalted butter on top of the chicken and around the pot.

6. Pour in 1/4 cup chicken broth so that the chicken sits in a bit of liquid.

7. If you like, add a few lemon slices on top for extra tang and color.

8. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender.

9. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and flavor.

Equipment Needed

1. Crock pot
2. Measuring spoons
3. Measuring cup
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Citrus juicer or reamer (optional)
7. Spoon or spatula
8. Tongs (optional)

FAQ

Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you dont have bone in, skin on chicken thighs, try using boneless thighs or even chicken breasts, but keep an eye on them cause they can dry out real quick.
• Missing lemon juice? Squeeze some lime juice instead, it adds a nice tang that’ll work just as well.
• Out of unsalted butter? Use salted butter instead, but you might wanna go easy on the extra salt you add later.
• If you dont have fresh garlic cloves, about a teaspoon of garlic powder can do the trick, though it might not have as much kick.
• No chicken broth? You can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water mixed with a pinch of extra seasoning to keep the flavor going.

Pro Tips

1. Try browning the chicken skin slightly in a pan before popping it in the crock pot if you have the time. It gives a way deeper flavor and helps keep the meat extra juicy.
2. When you’re adding garlic, don’t be shy if you love its kick. A bit extra can really push the flavor of the dish to the next level.
3. Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices settle in and makes it even more tender.
4. If you wanna step up the look of the dish, toss a bit of fresh parsley on top right before serving to add a pop of color and light flavor.