Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Recipe
This Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken infused with bright lemon flavor, savory garlic, and rich butter. Perfectly slow-cooked to lock in all the deliciousness, it’s an effortless, comforting meal ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Chicken
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Marinade and Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, pepper, chicken broth, olive oil, and honey. Whisk well to blend all the flavors together.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place them in the slow cooker in a single layer, skin side up, and pour the lemon garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring full coverage.
- Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be tender, fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F/74°C), and infused with the lemon garlic butter sauce.
- Optional Crisping: If you prefer crispy skin, carefully transfer the cooked chicken thighs to a baking sheet skin side up and broil them in the oven for 3-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Serve: Garnish the chicken with chopped fresh parsley and spoon some of the luscious lemon garlic butter sauce from the crock pot over the top. Serve warm alongside your favorite side dishes for a hearty, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide the best flavor and moisture but can be swapped for boneless if preferred; just reduce the cook time slightly.
- For a low-sodium version, reduce or omit added salt and use low-sodium chicken broth.
- Adding honey is optional but helps balance the acidity of the lemon with a subtle sweetness.
- Do not overcook the chicken in the slow cooker to maintain juiciness.
- Use fresh lemon for best flavor; bottled lemon juice is not recommended.
