Tender Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Crockpot Recipe Easy 5-Ingredient Dinner Idea
A simple and delicious crockpot recipe for tender garlic butter chicken thighs with a rich, buttery sauce that is perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 to 6 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (2 to 3 pounds / 900g – 1.4kg)
- 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4–5 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup (120ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, and smoked paprika if using. Mix well.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the skin side of each chicken thigh.
- Place the chicken thighs in a single layer, skin side up, in the crockpot. Pour chicken broth around the chicken, avoiding pouring directly on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender.
- About 10 minutes before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken. For crispier skin, transfer thighs to a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes, watching carefully.
- Serve with buttery juices spooned over the chicken.
Notes
Optional searing of chicken thighs before slow cooking adds flavor and texture. Use softened butter, not melted, for better adherence. Avoid overcrowding the crockpot for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If sauce is too thin, simmer on stovetop or thicken with cornstarch slurry. For dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 350
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 24
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Protein: 30
Keywords: garlic butter chicken, crockpot chicken thighs, easy dinner, slow cooker recipe, 5-ingredient dinner, tender chicken, family meal