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Tender Foolproof Crockpot Chicken Breast Recipe with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

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A simple and reliable crockpot recipe for juicy chicken breasts cooked in a luscious lemon garlic butter sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (about 60 grams), softened
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • Zest and juice from 1 medium lemon (about 2 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (120 ml), low-sodium preferred
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 4 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, 4 cloves minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly blended (about 5 minutes).
  2. Pat the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place them in a single layer in the crockpot (about 2 minutes).
  3. Spoon the lemon garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Pour 1/2 cup chicken broth around the chicken to keep it moist, avoiding pouring directly on the butter mixture (about 3 minutes).
  4. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours (180 to 240 minutes) until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender but not falling apart. Alternatively, cook on high for 1.5 to 2 hours, watching closely to avoid drying out.
  5. About 10 minutes before serving, check the chicken with a meat thermometer. If done, remove the chicken breasts and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
  6. Optional: Transfer the cooking liquid to a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until slightly reduced and glossy, stirring occasionally.
  7. Plate the chicken breasts and spoon the lemon garlic butter sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before cooking to help sauce stick and avoid dilution. Cook on low heat for best tenderness and moisture. Avoid opening the crockpot lid frequently to prevent drying out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Sauce can be thickened by simmering the cooking liquid. Adjust garlic and lemon to taste; add sugar or cream to balance flavors if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken breast, lemon garlic butter chicken, slow cooker chicken, easy chicken recipe, tender chicken breasts, comfort food, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://merrymorsel.com/tender-foolproof-crockpot-chicken-breast-recipe-with-lemon-garlic-butter-sauce/