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Cozy Crockpot Chicken Breast with Herb Butter

cozy crockpot chicken breast with herb butter - featured image

This cozy crockpot chicken breast with herb butter is a set-it-and-forget-it weeknight dinner that delivers tender, juicy chicken every time. The herb butter creates a protective layer that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful, making it perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total)
  • ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • Optional: 1 sprig fresh rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening, optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the herb butter: In a small bowl, mash together 4 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
  2. Prep and sear the chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with paprika and a little extra salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Chicken will not be cooked through.
  3. Layer in the slow cooker: Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place seared chicken breasts in a single layer. Divide herb butter evenly among the chicken breasts, spreading on top. Tuck rosemary sprig between pieces if using.
  4. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until internal temperature reaches 165°F at the thickest part. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
  5. Rest and serve: Carefully remove chicken and let rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. If desired, whisk cornstarch slurry into remaining juices in the slow cooker and let simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until thickened. Slice chicken against the grain and spoon sauce over the top.

Notes

Don’t skip the sear—it adds deep flavor. Check chicken temperature early to avoid overcooking. For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken, slow cooker chicken, herb butter chicken, easy chicken dinner, cozy chicken recipe