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Tender Never-Dry Crockpot Chicken Breast Recipe with Lemon Garlic Butter Gravy Made Easy

tender never-dry crockpot chicken breast - featured image

A simple and reliable crockpot chicken breast recipe that stays juicy and tender, topped with a bright and silky lemon garlic butter gravy. Perfect for busy weeknights and comforting family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 lbs / 680 to 900 g)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free option)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning if using.
  2. In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, 4 minced garlic cloves, lemon zest from 1 lemon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined.
  3. Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of low-sodium chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the broth in a single layer.
  4. Spread the lemon garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours. Avoid opening the lid during cooking to keep the temperature steady. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when done.
  6. About 15 minutes before serving, mix 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free) with 1/4 cup (60 ml) of cold water until smooth. Pour this slurry into the crockpot and gently stir to combine with the cooking juices.
  7. Replace the lid and cook on high for 15 minutes to thicken the gravy.
  8. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken is tender and cooked through. Taste the gravy and adjust salt or lemon juice to your liking.
  9. Serve the chicken breasts topped with plenty of lemon garlic butter gravy.

Notes

Use room temperature butter for better melting and flavor infusion. Avoid opening the crockpot lid during cooking to maintain temperature and prevent drying out. For gluten-free, substitute flour with cornstarch or arrowroot powder. For dairy-free, use olive oil instead of butter and coconut milk instead of broth. If gravy is too thick, whisk in more chicken broth; if too thin, cook uncovered on high for a few extra minutes. Check internal temperature to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken breast, lemon garlic butter gravy, slow cooker chicken, tender chicken breast, easy dinner, weeknight meal, gluten-free option, comfort food