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Easy Crockpot Chicken Breast with Herb Butter Recipe

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This isn’t just another crockpot chicken recipe. The herb butter under the skin is the game-changer, keeping the meat tender and flavorful without drying out, even after hours in the slow cooker.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 medium breasts)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the herb butter. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
  2. Prep the chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If very thick (over 1 inch), butterfly or pound to an even thickness.
  3. Loosen the skin (if using skin-on breasts). Gently slide your fingers under the skin to create a pocket without tearing it. If using skinless breasts, spread butter directly on top.
  4. Spread the butter. Using a spatula or butter knife, spread about 1 tablespoon of herb butter under the skin of each breast, pressing it evenly over the meat. For skinless breasts, spread directly on top.
  5. Place in the crockpot. Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer in the slow cooker. Pour chicken broth around the chicken (not over the top).
  6. Cook on low. Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
  7. Check the temperature. Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of a breast. It should read 165°F (74°C). If not, cook for another 30 minutes and check again.
  8. Rest before serving. Transfer chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice against the grain.
  9. Make a quick sauce (optional). Pour cooking liquid into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and reduce for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in lemon juice if desired. Spoon over chicken before serving.

Notes

Don’t overcook the chicken. Use low heat, not high. Don’t lift the lid during cooking. Season the herb butter generously. Arrange chicken in a single layer. For dairy-free, use vegan butter or olive oil. Can substitute chicken thighs for breasts. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken, slow cooker chicken, herb butter chicken, easy chicken recipe, juicy chicken breast, family dinner, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://lenatable.com/easy-crockpot-chicken-breast-with-herb-butter-recipe/