Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken uses simple ingredients for a rich, comforting result. Here’s what you’ll need for 4 servings:

• 1 ½ to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Tender, juicy protein.
• 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed: Adds creamy texture and heartiness.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into chunks: Creates a rich, savory base.
• 8 large garlic cloves, smashed and chopped: Infuses bold flavor.
• ⅓ cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for serving: Adds fresh, herbaceous notes.
• 1 shallot, minced: Contributes mild oniony depth.
• 1 lemon, juiced: Brightens the dish with acidity.
• Kosher salt (e.g., Diamond Crystal) and black pepper: Seasons the dish.
• ½ cup sour cream: Adds creamy richness.
• Homemade or store-bought croutons: Provides crunchy topping.

Why These Ingredients Matter

• Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs stay tender and absorb flavors.
• Cannellini Beans: Add protein and creaminess, making the dish hearty.
• Garlic and Butter: Mimic escargot butter for a rich, aromatic sauce.
• Sour Cream and Croutons: Elevate with creamy texture and crunchy contrast.

Substitutions and Variations

• Chicken Thighs: Swap with boneless chicken breasts (reduce cooking time to 3 hours) or bone-in thighs (increase to 5 hours).
• Cannellini Beans: Use navy beans, great northern beans, or chickpeas.
• Butter: Replace with plant-based butter for vegan or olive oil for lighter flavor.
• Garlic: Use 1 tablespoon garlic powder in a pinch.
• Parsley: Substitute with cilantro or dill.
• Shallot: Swap with ½ small onion or 2 scallions.
• Lemon Juice: Use 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or lime juice.
• Sour Cream: Replace with Greek yogurt or plant-based sour cream for vegan.
• Croutons: Use toasted bread cubes, crushed crackers, or omit for gluten-free.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based chicken, vegan butter, and plant-based sour cream.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free croutons or omit; ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
• Flavor Variations:
  • Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes with the garlic.
  • Herb-Infused Chicken: Include 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary with the parsley.
  • Mushroom Garlic Chicken: Add 8 ounces sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker.
  • Cheesy Garlic Chicken: Stir in ¼ cup grated Parmesan with the sour cream.
  • Citrus Garlic Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest with the juice.