Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a simple and tasty dish that’s perfect for busy days! With tender chicken cooked in creamy garlic parmesan sauce and mixed with pasta, it’s a great comfort food.
Who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself? I toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work. It fills the house with a delicious smell, making everyone eager to eat! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this dish as they stay moist during cooking. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can swap them with chicken thighs, which are juicier.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich flavor. If you’re out of it, consider using Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option to achieve a cheesy flavor.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce creamy and delicious. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like coconut milk, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that classic flavor. If you only have garlic powder, use about 1 teaspoon, but fresh garlic gives the best taste and aroma.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken is Tender and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot is all about low, slow heat to get tender results. Here’s how to do it right:
- Layer the chicken evenly at the bottom of the crockpot without overcrowding.
- Mix the cheese, cream, and garlic until smooth; it helps coat the chicken perfectly.
- Make sure the cream mixture covers the chicken entirely. This keeps it moist.
- Set the crockpot on low for 6-8 hours for the best tenderness or on high for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time.
- Don’t rush the shredding—letting it rest for a few minutes helps retain juices. Mix it well with the sauce afterward.
4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Depending on your cooking method, you’ll need to let it cook for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Overall, you can enjoy this delicious dish with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure to spread them out evenly so that they cook thoroughly.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and minced garlic. Use a whisk or a spoon to mix everything together until it is smooth and well blended. This will be the creamy sauce that makes the chicken irresistible!
3. Combine in Crockpot:
Pour the cheese and cream mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure to cover the chicken completely with the sauce. This will help infuse all that yummy flavor into the chicken while it cooks.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. You can choose to cook it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it is fully cooked through and tender.
5. Shred and Serve:
Once the chicken has cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Stir it well to combine the shredded chicken with the creamy sauce. It’s now ready to serve!
6. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your garlic Parmesan chicken over pasta, rice, or with some crusty bread. If you want, garnish it with chopped parsley for a splash of color and flavor. Enjoy your homemade meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe, adding a bit more flavor and moisture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if the thighs are particularly large; they may take a little longer to cook through than breasts.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of butter for a richer texture. Alternatively, using cream cheese or Greek yogurt can also work, but be sure to lower the heat to prevent curdling.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy sauce’s consistency. You might want to add a splash of cream or milk to rehydrate it!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely add vegetables! Great options include broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the crockpot alongside the chicken and sauce. They may need a little extra cooking time, so check for tenderness before serving.
