This 4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken is super simple and packed with flavor! Just chicken, garlic, parmesan cheese, and a bit of seasoning mix together in the slow cooker for a tasty dish.
I love how I can toss everything in and let the slow cooker do its magic! It’s perfect for busy days when I still want something delicious and comforting for dinner. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they stay moist in the slow cooker. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breast works well too. Or for a fun twist, use chicken thighs for more flavor.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the sauce a rich and creamy texture. If you’re watching calories, you can substitute with half-and-half or a lower-fat cream. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream can substitute, though it will add a slight coconut flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan delivers a nutty flavor that’s key here. If you’re out of Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano for a bolder taste. Nutritional yeast can be a great dairy-free alternative, giving a cheesy flavor with fewer calories.
Garlic: Minced garlic is essential for that aromatic punch. Fresh garlic is best but if you don’t have it, garlic powder can work in a pinch—use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove you’re replacing.
How Do I Keep My Chicken Tender in the Crockpot?
The secret to tender chicken is cooking it low and slow. This method allows the meat to break down and stay juicy. Here’s how:
- Cock the chicken on low heat for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Low is often best for even cooking.
- Avoid lifting the lid too often. Each time you open it, heat escapes, increasing cooking time.
- Shred the chicken right in the crockpot. This allows it to soak up the creamy sauce, making every bite flavorful.
4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then you’ll let it cook in the crockpot—6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. So, it’s perfect for a busy day when you want a delicious meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they are laid flat for even cooking. This is the base of your tasty dish!
2. Make the Cream Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Stir it well until everything is combined nicely. This creamy mixture will give your chicken that delicious garlic Parmesan flavor!
3. Combine Component:
Pour the cream mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Use a spoon or spatula to ensure that all the chicken is well-coated in that yummy sauce. This will make the chicken super flavorful!
4. Cooking the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender. No need to worry about it; just let the crockpot do its job!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the crockpot. It’s tender enough that it will fall apart easily. Give it a good stir to mix everything together with the sauce!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to serve your garlic Parmesan chicken. You can enjoy it over pasta, rice, or with a side of veggies. This meal is simple yet so satisfying. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure to extend the cooking time by an hour or two. If using a high setting, cook for about 4-5 hours, and for low, aim for 7-9 hours. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk. For a dairy-free version, use cashew cream or almond milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it. Just adjust the seasoning as necessary!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. You can also microwave it in short intervals until warmed through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just pour the sauce over the chicken in the crockpot right before you’re ready to cook.
