Juicy, Tender, and Bursting with Flavor — Perfectly Slow-Cooked Comfort
These lemon garlic butter chicken thighs are melt-in-your-mouth tender with bright citrus, aromatic herbs, and rich buttery garlic flavor. Toss everything into your slow cooker and come home to a wholesome, comforting meal that pairs beautifully with veggies or cauliflower rice.
Course: Main
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4–8 hours
Total Time: Up to 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 6–8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or with skin, if preferred)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (or cayenne – optional for heat)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 garlic cloves, sliced or minced
- ½ stick butter, diced
- Zest of ½ lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ⅓ cup low sodium chicken broth
- For garnish: Fresh chopped parsley, lemon slices
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
- Place chicken thighs into the bottom of your slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken.
Step 2: Add Liquids & Aromatics
- In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Top with sliced garlic and diced butter.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cover the crock pot and cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or LOW for 6–8 hours, until chicken is tender and juicy.
Step 4: Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and garnish with fresh lemon slices before serving.
- Spoon the buttery lemon garlic sauce over the top for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed green beans, zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or a fresh side salad.
- Pair with mashed cauliflower for a full keto-friendly meal.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze cooled portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: ~290 kcal
- Protein: ~28g
- Fat: ~19g
- Net Carbs: ~2g
This slow-cooked lemon garlic butter chicken is a no-fuss, flavor-packed dish that feels like home in every bite — zesty, herby, buttery, and oh-so-satisfying.
