Name: Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487789H9M44S
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 tbsp butter; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the zesty brightness of lemon, the richness of butter, and the smooth creaminess of a savory sauce—all made effortlessly in a slow cooker. It’s a no-fuss meal with restaurant-quality flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, it pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Salt and black pepper
Garlic cloves
Butter
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Lemon juice
Lemon zest
Italian seasoning
Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides (about 2-3 minutes per side).
Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker.
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds, then add chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a light simmer.
Pour the lemon mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender.
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy cream. If a thicker sauce is desired, mix a bit of cornstarch with water and stir it in at this point.
Once done, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your choice of side.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Total time: Approximately 4 hours 15 minutes (depending on your slow cooker setting)

Variations

Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream alternative.
Add Veggies: Add sliced mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus in the last hour of cooking.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Use Fresh Herbs: Try rosemary, thyme, or basil instead of Italian seasoning.
Chicken Alternatives: This recipe works well with bone-in chicken or turkey cutlets too.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
To freeze, place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling in the slow cooker?

To prevent curdling, always add the cream toward the end of the cooking time and stir it in gently.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work just as well. Just make sure not to overcook them so they stay tender.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes, simply simmer everything on low heat after searing the chicken, adding the cream toward the end.

What sides go well with creamy lemon butter chicken?

It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or even crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare everything and refrigerate it overnight, then cook it the next day.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

You can add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and ensure your slow cooker can accommodate the volume.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese can be used, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Butter Chicken is a deliciously easy recipe that delivers comfort and elegance with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for the week, this dish offers a flavorful, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Give it a try and savor the blend of zesty lemon and rich, creamy sauce in every bite.

Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Butter Chicken