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Crockpot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Recipe

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4.4 from 14 reviews

This Crockpot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken infused with bright lemon and savory garlic flavors. Slow-cooked to perfection with a buttery, spiced rub, it’s an effortless meal perfect for busy days or cozy dinners. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a fresh finish.

  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

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 and Garlic

  • 1 medium lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 medium lemon (sliced, optional)

Butter and Garnish

  • 6 tablespoons salted butter (cut into slices)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place 3 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs in the bottom of a 5 to 6-quart slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly spread.
  2. Make the Spice Mix: 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 mix the spices evenly.
  3. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the prepared spice mix evenly over the chicken thighs to coat them thoroughly.
  4. 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 minced garlic on top of the thighs for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
  5. Add Butter: Dot the top of the chicken with 6 tablespoons of salted butter, sliced into tablespoon-size pieces to ensure even melting and richness throughout the dish.
  6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 172°F (74°C).
  7. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, slice 1 medium lemon and place the slices on top of the cooked chicken. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve hot, drizzled with the cooking juices.

Notes

  • Using boneless skinless thighs helps them cook evenly and absorb flavors better.
  • Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
  • Butter pieces ensure rich flavor throughout the cooking process.
  • Cooking times may vary depending on slow cooker brand and size.
  • Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American