Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken

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Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken

Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)

Ingredients

  • 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
    (Use thighs for juicier results or breasts for a leaner option)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon slices (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken
    • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and prevents excess liquid in the crock pot.
    • Season both sides of the chicken with a pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika. Set aside.
  2. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, chicken broth, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Assemble in the Crock Pot
    • Pour half of the lemon butter sauce into the bottom of the crock pot.
    • Place the seasoned chicken breasts or thighs in a single layer over the sauce.
    • Pour the remaining lemon butter sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
  4. Cook
    • Cover the crock pot with the lid.
    • Cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or high heat for 2-3 hours. The chicken is ready when it is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Optional Step
    • For a golden finish, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet, brush with a bit of the sauce, and broil on high for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Garnish and Serve
    • Once cooked, sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken and garnish with lemon slices.
    • Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, mashed cauliflower, rice, or zucchini noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Tips for Success

  • For extra creaminess: Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or coconut cream to the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  • Want more flavor? Marinate the chicken in the lemon butter sauce for 1-2 hours before cooking.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Enjoy your flavorful and tender Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken! Let me know if you’d like suggestions for side dishes!

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