Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Breasts

A low-effort, American-inspired recipe for tender chicken breasts cooked in a garlic butter sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep.

Equipment

• slow cooker
• small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
• food thermometer

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5–6 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme, optional
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If very thick, gently pound them to an even thickness.
2. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional thyme. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Melt the butter gently in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the minced garlic and lemon juice.
4. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer. Pour the chicken broth around the chicken. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the chicken breasts. Sprinkle with optional red pepper flakes.
5. Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on LOW for approximately 3–4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a plate. Let them rest for about 5 minutes.
7. Taste the cooking liquid and adjust seasoning if needed. Spoon some of the garlic butter sauce over each chicken breast. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

Optional additions include grated Parmesan cheese, sliced mushrooms, baby spinach, or chopped green beans. For storage, refrigerate leftovers for up to 3–4 days or freeze for 2–3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or skillet with a splash of broth.

Nutrition

Calories: 390 · Protein: 48 g · Total Fat: 19 g · Saturated Fat: 8 g · Carbohydrates: 3 g · Fiber: 0.5 g · Sugar: 1 g · Sodium: 620 mg