Go Back

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken - Comfort Food Made Easy

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 to 2.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts; see notes in FAQs)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 8–10 cloves garlic, minced (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or dried thyme + oregano)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (plus zest of 1/2 lemon, optional)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, to thicken)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Optional add-ins: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or sliced mushrooms

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Sprinkle evenly with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
  2. Make the garlic butter base. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, not browned. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
  3. Layer the slow cooker. Add the chicken broth to the slow cooker. Place the seasoned chicken in an even layer. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the top.
  4. Add the rest of the butter. Cut the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter into small pieces and dot them over the chicken. This helps create that rich, glossy sauce.
  5. Cook low and slow. Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or on High for 2.5–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  6. Optional: Thicken the sauce. Transfer the chicken to a plate and tent with foil. Whisk the cornstarch slurry into the cooking liquid. Turn the slow cooker to High and cook for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan now if using.
  7. Finish and serve. Return the chicken to the slow cooker or plate it and spoon the sauce over the top. Add lemon zest if using and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon if needed.
  8. Suggested sides. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or a bed of sautéed greens. Roasted broccoli or green beans make an easy side.