Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken in Slow Cooker

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this dish as they cook evenly and stay juicy. You could also use thighs for a richer flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute. Use about 1 teaspoon for each clove you’d replace.

Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, try half-and-half or evaporated milk. Coconut cream is another great dairy-free alternate if you want to go vegan!

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds the best flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor.

Italian Seasoning: This blend is great, but feel free to use your favorite herbs instead like thyme, oregano, or basil.

How Do I Achieve Creamy Sauce in the Slow Cooker?

Making a creamy sauce in a slow cooker requires some care. The goal is not to overcook the cream so it doesn’t break and become greasy.

• Start by combining the heavy cream and chicken broth. This creates a nice base.
• Don’t add the cheese until the end. Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the Parmesan for a smooth finish.
• Ensure you cover the slow cooker properly to keep moisture in and help emulsify the sauce.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken in Slow Cooker

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then cooks in your slow cooker for either 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. It’s a great set-and-forget meal that fills your home with delicious aromas while you go about your day!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they’re in a single layer for even cooking.

2. Create the Creamy Mixture:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This is going to be the delicious sauce that infuses flavor into the chicken!

3. Combine Chicken with Sauce:

Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they are all well coated. No chicken left behind!

4. Add Butter:

Place the butter on top of the chicken for extra richness and flavor as it cooks.

5. Cook:

Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork.

6. Stir and Serve:

Once the chicken is cooked, stir the sauce to combine everything and enhance the flavors. Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley!

7. Enjoy Your Meal:

Serve this creamy garlic parmesan chicken over cooked pasta, rice, or alongside steamed vegetables for a delightful meal. Bon appétit!

Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low or 30-60 minutes on high, as they need more time to thaw and cook through.

Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with a Lighter Option?

Absolutely! You can use half-and-half, sour cream, or even yogurt for a lighter version. If using yogurt, stir it in at the end to avoid curdling.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, ensuring the chicken stays moist by adding a splash of broth or cream if necessary.

What Can I Serve Alongside This Dish?

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal!