Crockpot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken

Introduction

Crockpot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that brings comfort to your dinner table. With the amazing combination of lemon, garlic, and buttery goodness, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with taste. Perfect for busy days, it allows you to come home to a warm and delicious meal without the hassle of cooking.

Why make this recipe

This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, the slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the chicken to become tender and juicy as it cooks. Plus, the fresh flavors of lemon and garlic provide a delightful twist that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it over rice or alongside veggies, this dish is a crowd-pleaser!

How to prepare Crockpot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken

Ingredients:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Steps:

Place chicken in the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, lemon juice, melted butter, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Pour the lemon garlic butter sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove chicken and shred or slice as desired. Return to the sauce to keep moist.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices, if desired. This chicken is great over rice, pasta, or with roasted vegetables.

How to serve Crockpot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken

Serve this delicious chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or pasta, letting the savory sauce soak in. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For an extra touch, add fresh parsley and lemon slices on top for a pop of color and flavor.

How to store Crockpot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you make a large batch, consider freezing portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Tips to make Crockpot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken perfectly

Make sure to season the chicken with salt and pepper before adding the sauce for extra flavor.
For more lemony goodness, add lemon zest along with the lemon juice.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken towards the end of cooking and whisk in a cornstarch slurry.

Variations

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Use fresh herbs like thyme and oregano instead of dried for a brighter taste.
Swap out the chicken for pork or tofu for a different protein option.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you should increase the cooking time by an hour on LOW and about 30 minutes on HIGH.

Q2: Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can cook this dish in a oven-safe dish at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Q3: What should I do if the chicken is dry after cooking?
If the chicken turns out dry, try shredding it and mixing it back into the sauce to keep it moist when serving. Adding a bit of chicken broth can also help.

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Crockpot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken recipe with family and friends!