This easy 4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken is a winner! With juicy chicken, creamy Parmesan, and garlic, it’s a dish that warms your heart and tummy.
The best part? You just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work. I love serving this with rice or pasta—perfect for a cozy dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish as they get super tender in the crockpot. You can also use thighs if you prefer a juicier texture or even turkey cutlets if they’re on sale!
Heavy Cream: This adds a rich creaminess to the dish. If you want a lighter option, try half-and-half, or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Vegetable broth can work for a lighter sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty bite that elevates the dish. For a budget-friendly option, you could use Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast if you’re dairy-free!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for the best flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but the fresh taste is really worth it if you can manage it!
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Turns Out Tender in the Crockpot?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot is easy, but timing is important to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Here are some tips:
- Place the chicken in a single layer at the bottom of the crockpot for even cooking.
- Cook on low for longer if you can; 6-8 hours yields delicious results.
- Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s cooked through safely.
- Shredding the cooked chicken in the sauce not only makes it easier to serve but also allows it to soak up that amazing garlic parmesan flavor!
How to Make 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 delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and then you can let it cook in the crockpot for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a perfect hands-off meal for when you’re busy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. It’s okay if they overlap a little; they’ll cook down perfectly!
2. Mix the Sauce:
Grab a mixing bowl and combine the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Stir these ingredients together until they are well blended and nice and creamy.
3. Pour and Cover:
Now it’s time to pour your creamy garlic mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure the chicken is well covered in sauce to help it stay moist while cooking.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot with its lid. You can set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and cooked through. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen!
5. Shred and Stir:
When the chicken is finished cooking, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Mix it well with the sauce so that every bite is packed with flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your garlic Parmesan chicken is ready! Serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of your favorite vegetables. Enjoy this tasty, comforting meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will provide even more flavor and tenderness. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary; thighs can take a bit longer, but generally, the cooking time remains similar.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of butter for a creamy consistency. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt, but add it at the end of cooking to prevent curdling.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken and sauce for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers directly to the crockpot at the start of cooking. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces, and they’ll cook perfectly alongside the chicken!
