Preparing the Chicken
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
- Layer Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock pot.
Making the Sauce
- Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried rosemary, dried basil, and paprika. Mix well.
- Add Butter: Stir in the butter pieces until they are well distributed in the sauce mixture.
- Pour Sauce: Pour the sauce over the chicken breasts in the crock pot.
Cooking
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Thicken Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the slurry into the sauce and let it cook on high for the remaining time.
Serving
- Shred Chicken (Optional): For a shredded chicken option, remove the chicken breasts from the crock pot and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce and mix well.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Success
- Chicken Thighs: If you prefer a richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less creamy.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce. Steamed vegetables or a simple green salad make great side dishes.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a flavorful and comforting meal that requires minimal effort. The slow cooker ensures that the chicken remains tender and absorbs the rich, creamy sauce, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!
This recipe offers a detailed guide for making a creamy, tangy chicken dish in the crock pot, making it easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying.