Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Written by Sarah Gardner

There's something magical about coming home to the aroma of a slow-cooked meal, and this Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is comfort food at its finest. Juicy, tender chicken breasts bathe in a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce, infused with Italian herbs and a touch of cream. It's the kind of dish that feels fancy but requires almost no effort—just toss everything in the crockpot, and let it work its magic!

Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Slow cooker Crockpot
  • Skillet for optional searing
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional, for a little heat
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or cornstarch for gluten-free option
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup cream cheese softened
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Sear the Chicken (Optional)

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 2 minutes per side until lightly golden. (This step adds flavor but can be skipped.)

Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  2. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for 1 minute.
  3. Slowly add the chicken broth, whisking constantly, followed by the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.

Slow Cook to Perfection

  1. Place the chicken in the crockpot and pour the creamy garlic sauce over it.
  2. Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
    black crockpot with golden-brown, seared chicken neatly arranged at the bottom

Add the Final Touch

  1. Stir in the cream cheese and let it melt into the sauce.
  2. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve & Enjoy

  1. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
  2. Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a full meal.

 Best Pairings

  • Side Dishes: Buttery mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp Caesar salad.
  • Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
  • Bread: Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls for soaking up the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs are more flavorful and stay juicy, making them a great option.

2. Can I make this without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be slightly thinner.

3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth or milk to keep the sauce creamy.

4. Can I make this dairy-free?

Try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The flavor will change slightly but still be delicious!

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