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Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Lemon Garlic Butter – Juicy, Comforting & Effortlessly Delicious

These Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Lemon Garlic Butter are pure comfort with a bright, zesty twist. Tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken thighs slowly cook in a rich lemon-garlic butter sauce that infuses every bite with deep flavor. The result is juicy meat, silky sauce, and an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen—all with minimal effort. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a set-it-and-forget-it meal that still feels special. The lemon keeps things fresh, the garlic adds warmth, and the butter creates a luxurious finish. If you love slow cooker chicken, lemon garlic flavors, and easy comfort dinners, this one is a must.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Protein
  • 2 lbs chicken thighs bone-in and skin-on
Aromatics & Citrus
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 medium lemon zest + juice
Liquids
  • ⅓ cup low-sodium chicken broth
Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
Fats
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted
Ingredient Notes:
  • Bone-in skin-on thighs stay extra juicy in the slow cooker.
  • Lemon zest adds brightness without overpowering.
  • Butter creates a rich silky sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.

Equipment

  • Slow cooker (5–6 quart)
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Small saucepan (optional, for melting butter)
  • Tongs
  • Tip: Lining the slow cooker with foil or parchment can help with easy cleanup.

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  2. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Arrange in Slow Cooker
  1. Place chicken thighs skin-side up in the slow cooker in a single layer if possible.
Step 3: Make Lemon Garlic Butter
  1. In a bowl, mix:
  2. Melted butter
  3. Minced garlic
  4. Lemon zest
  5. Lemon juice
  6. Chicken broth
  7. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
  1. Pour lemon garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken.
Step 5: Slow Cook
  1. Cover and cook:
  2. LOW: 6–7 hours
  3. HIGH: 3–4 hours
  4. Chicken should be very tender and cooked through.
Step 6: Optional Crisping (Highly Recommended)
  1. Preheat oven broiler.
  2. Transfer chicken thighs to a baking sheet.
  3. Broil for 3–5 minutes until skin is golden and slightly crispy.
Step 7: Finish
  1. Spoon extra lemon garlic butter sauce over the chicken before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave
Spoon extra sauce over chicken to keep it moist
Tip: The flavors intensify beautifully overnight.
🥄 Variations
Extra Lemon Flavor
Add extra lemon slices to the slow cooker
Herb Boost
Add fresh thyme or rosemary
Low-Carb Friendly
Serve with roasted vegetables or greens
Garlic Lovers
Increase garlic to 6 cloves
Creamy Finish
Stir a splash of cream into the sauce before serving
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use boneless thighs?
Yes, reduce cooking time slightly.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, naturally low carb.
Does the butter separate?
It stays rich and smooth when stirred.
Is the lemon flavor strong?
Balanced and fresh, not overpowering.
Can I skip broiling?
Yes, but broiling adds great texture.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, mild and comforting.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze up to 2 months.
What sides go best with this?
Vegetables, cauliflower mash, or rice.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, if your slow cooker is large enough.
Will the chicken dry out?
No, thighs stay very juicy.
🏁 Conclusion
These slow cooker chicken thighs with lemon garlic butter are everything you want in an easy comfort meal—juicy, rich, and bursting with flavor. With minimal prep and maximum payoff, this dish proves that slow cooking can feel luxurious without being complicated.
Perfect for busy days, family dinners, or relaxed weekends, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.