Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that practically cooks itself, and this Garlic Butter Chicken made in a crockpot is just that! Imagine juicy, tender chicken breasts bathed in a rich and creamy garlic butter sauce, filling your home with a warm and inviting aroma. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you simply want a hearty meal without the fuss, this recipe is sure to become a beloved family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: cooked rice or potatoes for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by melting the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant and golden.
- In a crockpot, place the chicken breasts in a single layer. Season them generously with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and paprika to elevate their flavor.
- Pour the delicious garlic butter mixture over the seasoned chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Next, add the chicken broth to the crockpot, which will help create a luscious sauce as the chicken cooks.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot, mixing it back into the fragrant sauce.
- Serve the garlic butter chicken warm over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy potatoes, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a beautiful finish.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, feel free to add some chopped vegetables like carrots or green beans into the crockpot along with the chicken. They’ll soak up all that delicious garlic butter goodness! If you have leftovers, this dish reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for lunch the next day.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights the slow cooking technique, which helps the chicken become incredibly tender while letting the flavors meld beautifully. Sautéing the garlic in butter before adding it to the crockpot creates a deeper, richer flavor that truly elevates the dish. Trust me, this little step makes all the difference!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can! Just note that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I serve with garlic butter chicken? This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or even a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! This chicken stays delicious in the fridge for a few days, so feel free to make a big batch for easy meals throughout the week.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken dish is a true testament to the magic of slow cooking. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a comforting and flavorful meal that will have everyone at the table coming back for seconds. So gather your loved ones, serve it up with a smile, and let the praises roll in for this easy, delightful dinner!