These Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are the perfect balance of rich, buttery flavor and fall off the bone tenderness. The slow cooked infusion of garlic, herbs, and butter makes every bite incredibly juicy and satisfying. Whether you’re serving this dish for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to be a hit.
The best part? This recipe is effortless! Just season the chicken, set it in the slow cooker, and let the magic happen. For an extra crispy finish, pop it under the broiler for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
- Rub the butter mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring an even coat.
- Pour chicken broth and lemon juice into the slow cooker.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the slow cooker, skin side up.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Optionally, place the cooked chicken thighs under a broiler for 3-5 minutes to crisp up the skin.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours (low) / 3 hours (high) | Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (low) / 3 hours 10 minutes (high)
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs is a game changer for home cooks who crave a delicious, tender, and flavorful meal without the hassle. This dish combines the rich and aromatic flavors of garlic butter with juicy chicken thighs, slow-cooked to perfection. The magic of the slow cooker allows all the seasonings to deeply penetrate the meat, creating a melt in your mouth experience that is sure to please the whole family.
One of the standout benefits of this dish is its convenience. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Whether you’re busy with work, errands, or simply relaxing, this hands off cooking method ensures you come home to an irresistibly savory meal.
Another reason why this dish is so beloved is its versatility. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it easy to customize based on personal preferences or dietary needs. For a comforting meal, serve the chicken thighs over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, roasted vegetables or a fresh salad complement the dish beautifully. The rich garlic butter sauce can even be drizzled over pasta for an extra indulgent touch.
Chicken thighs are a popular choice for slow cooker recipes because of their higher fat content, which keeps them juicy and tender during the long cooking process. Unlike chicken breasts, which can dry out if overcooked, thighs remain succulent and flavorful. The addition of butter and herbs in this recipe enhances the natural taste of the chicken, making it even more irresistible.
For those who enjoy meal prepping, this recipe is an excellent option. The cooked chicken thighs can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. They also freeze well, so you can prepare a batch in advance and reheat when needed. Whether you enjoy them fresh or as leftovers, the flavors remain just as delicious.
Another advantage of this recipe is that it is naturally gluten free and low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following specific dietary restrictions. With no need for complicated ingredients, it is an accessible and affordable meal that anyone can prepare.
If you want to elevate the dish even further, consider browning the chicken thighs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances the texture and adds a layer of depth to the flavor. Additionally, finishing the chicken under the broiler for a few minutes after slow cooking will give the skin a beautiful crispiness.
The Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The rich aroma of garlic and butter filling your kitchen as it cooks is enough to make anyone excited for dinnertime. The simplicity of preparation combined with its gourmet-like taste makes this dish a staple for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Conclusion
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a hassle-free, delicious, and comforting meal. The use of a slow cooker takes the stress out of cooking while ensuring that the chicken thighs turn out tender and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling multiple responsibilities, or simply someone who loves good food, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!