Garlic Butter Chicken
A comforting, hands-off crockpot recipe that features tender chicken in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2.5 to 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Thighs stay juicier.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pats Melts into glossy sauce.
- 6 cloves garlic, finely minced Aromatic heart of the dish.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth Keeps the chicken moist.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt For a silky finish.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Brightens flavors.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds warmth and color.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or a few sprigs of fresh thyme Aromatic earthiness.
- to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional) Adds cheesy flavor without dairy.
Instructions
Preparation
- Lightly season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Place the chicken in a single layer in the crockpot. Dot the top with pats of butter and sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over.
- Pour the chicken broth around the edges so the garlic stays fragrant.
Cooking
- Add Dijon mustard and thyme into the broth, cover, and cook on low for 6 hours (or high for 3–4 hours).
- At the 4-hour mark, check the chicken; it should have an amazing aroma.
- When fork-tender, remove two ladles of cooking liquid and whisk into the heavy cream (or Greek yogurt) to temper.
- Pour this mixture back into the crockpot and stir gently to create a rich sauce.
- Cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes to thicken slightly.
Finishing Touches
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Finish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast if using.
- Serve straight from the crockpot.
Notes
This recipe can be made with ghee instead of butter or coconut cream for a dairy-free version. For a baked finish, try adding mozzarella after slow cooking.