Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that ticks all the boxes for comfort food, look no further than Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken. This recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and rich flavors that will make any dinner feel special. Plus, it requires minimal prep time and lets your slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day. Ready to dive into a world of creamy goodness? Let’s get started!

Why Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is Worth Your Time

Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to create a dish that tastes like it took hours of effort. The tender chicken absorbs all the garlicky goodness, and the creamy Parmesan sauce is perfect for drizzling over rice or pasta. It’s not just a main dish; it’s a comforting hug for your taste buds!

What’s in the Bowl

To whip up this luscious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 10.5-ounce can cream of chicken soup (1 can)
• 6 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Freshly chopped parsley for garnish

Appliances & Accessories

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following handy:

• Crockpot: Your best friend for slow cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy in ingredients.
• Cutting board and knife: For prepping the garlic and chicken.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the sauce ingredients.
• Serving spoon: For dishing out the delicious meal.

Cook Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing your choice of boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs at the bottom of your crockpot. Ensure they are evenly spaced to cook uniformly.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle the ground black pepper, garlic powder, and salt over the chicken. This will infuse the meat with flavor as it cooks.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, softened cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until well blended and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything in the Crockpot

Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, making sure every piece is covered. This will help keep the chicken moist and flavorful during cooking.

Step 5: Let it Cook

Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time will yield more tender chicken, so if you can, opt for low and slow.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once the cooking time is up, shred the chicken using two forks right in the crockpot. Stir the shredded chicken into the creamy sauce to ensure it’s well coated.

Step 7: Serve It Up

Spoon the creamy chicken over cooked rice or pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy the burst of flavors!

What to Use Instead

If you need alternatives, consider:

• Chicken breast: Substitute with turkey breast or pork tenderloin for a different protein.
• Cream of chicken soup: Use homemade cream of chicken or a can of cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.
• Cream cheese: Swap with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lighter version.
• Parmesan cheese: Substitute with pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.

Errors to Dodge

When making Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken, keep these tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls:

• Overcooking: If you cook on high for too long, the chicken can become dry. Stick to the recommended times.
• Not seasoning: Be generous with the spices and garlic to enhance the flavor profile. Don’t skip the salt and pepper!
• Using cold cream cheese: Ensure that your cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in your sauce.
• Skipping the garnish: Fresh parsley adds a lovely touch and a burst of color, so don’t skip it!

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is great for meal prep. Here are some tips:

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Meal prep tip: Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal later!
• Storage containers: Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers for easy storage and reheating.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?

It’s best to thaw the chicken before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly. Cooking frozen chicken in the crockpot can lead to food safety issues.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If you’d like a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad make excellent sides!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything in the crockpot the night before, refrigerate it, and then start cooking in the morning.

What to Make After This

If you enjoyed Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you might want to try these other recipes:

• Chicken Tortilla Soup
• Creamy Mushroom Chicken
• Easy Vegan Chili
• Creamy Chicken Pasta

Bring It Home

Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken isn’t just a meal; it’s an invitation to slow down, savor, and enjoy the simple pleasures of good food. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. The best part? It requires minimal effort and allows you to spend more time with your loved ones while the slow cooker works its magic.

So, gather your ingredients and let the aroma of garlic and Parmesan fill your home. Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll be left with a cozy feeling that only a hearty meal can provide. Happy cooking!