Garlic Butter Chicken
This easy Garlic Butter Chicken recipe cooked in a crockpot creates tender, flavorful chicken that's perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Breasts stay lean; thighs stay juicier.
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces The star that gives that silky sauce.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced For heady, aromatic garlic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.
- 1 teaspoon paprika Adds warmth and color.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice Brightens the rich butter.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth Thins the sauce and keeps it saucy.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Balances richness with tang.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves Earthy and floral notes.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish Freshness and color.
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and thyme until combined.
- Place the chicken in the bottom of the crockpot and spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each piece.
- Pour the chicken broth into the crockpot around the chicken to keep the butter from washing away.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender.
- In the last 10 minutes, taste and adjust seasoning, then sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water into the sauce, then return the chicken to coat.
Notes
You can use thighs for a richer flavor or turkey breast for a lean twist. Add root vegetables for a one-pot meal or replace half the butter with olive oil for a lighter option.