Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Chicken Fillets with Lemon Butter Sauce: A Flavor-Packed, Effortless Dinner
Looking for a mouthwatering chicken recipe that’s both simple and satisfying? This Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Chicken Fillets with Lemon Butter Sauce is an ideal choice for busy weeknights or elegant weekend meals. Tender, golden-seared chicken fillets are slow-cooked in a zesty lemon butter sauce, infused with aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme. It’s a fuss-free dinner that tastes gourmet—with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients for Herb-Crusted Slow Cooker Chicken
To make this slow cooker chicken fillet recipe, you’ll need:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken fillets
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon dried rosemary
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1/4 cup chicken broth
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1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Fillets with Lemon Butter Sauce – Step by Step
🔹 Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken fillets dry and season both sides with:
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Salt
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Black pepper
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Garlic powder
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Dried rosemary
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Dried thyme
This herb crust creates a flavorful base and helps seal in the juices when seared.
Step 2: Sear for Maximum Flavor
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken fillets and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step locks in flavor and gives the chicken a beautiful color.
Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Place the seared chicken fillets into your slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer if possible.
Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Sauce
Using the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice. Stir while scraping up the brown bits from the bottom—this adds incredible depth of flavor to your sauce.
Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Chicken
Carefully pour the lemony mixture over the chicken fillets in the slow cooker.
Step 6: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and fork-tender. The herbs will infuse into the meat, and the sauce will thicken slightly.
Step 7: Add the Butter
About 30 minutes before serving, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the slow cooker. Let it melt into the sauce for a velvety, rich finish.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and freshness. Spoon the buttery lemon sauce over each fillet and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
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Garlic mashed potatoes
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Steamed green beans or broccoli
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Buttered rice or couscous
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Roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad
Recipe Variations & Tips
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Make it Creamy: Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or coconut cream for a creamy lemon herb sauce.
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Add Vegetables: Include sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or baby carrots in the slow cooker for a complete one-pot meal.
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Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower.
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Extra Zing: Add lemon zest for a brighter, more intense lemon flavor.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: Season and sear the chicken the night before, store it in the fridge, and slow-cook it the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of fillets?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well and offer even more juicy flavor.
Do I need to sear the chicken first?
While not strictly necessary, searing adds flavor and texture. If you’re short on time, you can skip it—but we recommend it for the best results.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a bit of added broth or butter.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Chicken Fillets with Lemon Butter Sauce is an easy, wholesome, and flavor-packed recipe that brings restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests, this dish is a slow cooker staple you’ll come back to again and again.
Looking for more slow cooker chicken recipes? Bookmark this page and explore our collection of easy crockpot meals!