Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a delicious and easy meal that cooks itself while you go about your day. This recipe features tender chicken thighs infused with the bright flavors of lemon and garlic. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
If you’re looking for a hassle-free, flavorful dish, this Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a great choice. It’s simple to prepare with minimal effort and uses common ingredients. The slow cooking process makes the chicken juicy and flavorful, and the lemon and garlic add a refreshing twist. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze.
How to Make Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Making this dish is straightforward. Just gather your ingredients, season the chicken, and let your crock pot do the work. Below are the ingredients and steps to prepare this tasty meal.
Ingredients:
- 6-8 boneless chicken thighs, skinless or with skin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes, or cayenne (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 4 garlic cloves, sliced or minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 stick butter, diced
- Zest of half a lemon
- Juice of one lemon
- 1/3 cup chicken stock
Directions:
- Place the chicken thighs in the crock pot.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red chili flakes, and paprika.
- Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, diced butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice on top of the chicken.
- Pour the chicken stock over the ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken from the crock pot, shred if desired, and serve.
How to Serve Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
You can serve this dish with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the buttery sauce. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad can add some crunch and balance the meal nicely. For extra flavor, drizzle some of the cooking juices over the chicken when serving.
How to Store Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
- Make sure to season the chicken well with salt and pepper for the best flavor.
- You can adjust the level of heat by adding or omitting the crushed red chili pepper.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a bit of heavy cream or sour cream before serving.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers to the crock pot. They will soak up the flavors while cooking and make the meal even heartier.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so check for doneness after about 3 hours on high or 6 hours on low.
2. Is it possible to make this recipe without a crock pot?
Absolutely! You can make it in a regular pot on the stove or use an Instant Pot. Cook it on the stove until the chicken is cooked through, or use the pressure cooker setting in the Instant Pot for about 10-15 minutes.
3. What can I use instead of butter?
If you want a healthier option, you can replace the butter with olive oil. It will change the flavor slightly but still keep the dish delicious.
Enjoy your delightful meal with family or friends, and savor the wonderful flavors of Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken!
