Crock Pot Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken

Tender, Flavorful, and Effortlessly Delicious

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Preparation Phase & Tools To Use

Tools:

  1. Crock Pot or slow cooker
  2. Small bowl for mixing seasonings
  3. Whisk
  4. Measuring cups and spoons
  5. Knife and cutting board for preparing chicken and garlic

Ingredients and Their Roles:

  • Chicken breasts or thighs (about 2 pounds): The main protein, chosen for its tenderness and ability to absorb flavors.
  • Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
  • Butter (1/4 cup): Adds richness and forms the base of the sauce.
  • Garlic (4-5 cloves, minced): Provides a bold flavor that pairs beautifully with lemon.
  • Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds moisture and helps to cook the chicken evenly in the Crock Pot.
  • Lemon juice (from 2 lemons): Offers a bright, acidic contrast to the richness of the butter.
  • Heavy cream (1 cup): Brings a luxurious creaminess to the sauce.
  • Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Adds depth with a blend of classic herbs.
  • Fresh parsley (a handful, chopped, for garnish): Introduces a fresh, herbal finish.
  • Cornstarch (1 tablespoon, optional, mixed with 1 tablespoon water): Used to thicken the sauce, if desired.

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Step-By-Step Instructions:

  1. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt and pepper. Place them in the Crock Pot.
  2. Add Flavorings: Add the minced garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, and sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the chicken. Dot the butter pieces evenly on top.
  3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
  4. Creamy Sauce: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, gently stir in the heavy cream. If you desire a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water in a separate bowl until smooth, then stir into the Crock Pot. Continue cooking until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Once done, garnish the chicken with chopped parsley. Serve warm over cooked pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.

Time and Servings:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 3-6 hours (depending on setting)
  • Total Time: 3 hours and 10 minutes to 6 hours and 10 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6

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Nutritional Information & Health Benefits:

This dish is rich in protein and can be part of a balanced diet when served with a side of vegetables or whole grains. The lemon in the recipe provides vitamin C, while the garlic offers antioxidant benefits. To make a lighter version, you could use light cream or coconut milk instead of heavy cream.

Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe:

  • Overcooking the Chicken: Keep an eye on the cooking time, especially if your Crock Pot cooks on the hotter side. Overcooked chicken can become dry.
  • Not Adjusting Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary. The acidity of lemons can vary, so you may need more or less lemon juice.
  • Skipping the Garnish: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a burst of fresh flavor that complements the creamy sauce.

Conclusion:

Crock Pot Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is the epitome of comfort food with a zesty twist. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep for maximum flavor. The slow cooking process infuses the chicken with garlic and lemon, while the cream adds a silky, indulgent texture to the sauce. Serve this dish with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

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