Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Description
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish made with tender chicken slow-cooked in a savory garlic parmesan sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because the slow cooker does most of the work. Serve it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Method
Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Add to Slow Cooker
Place chicken in the slow cooker. Add garlic, broth, butter, and olive oil.
Step 3: Cook
Cover and cook on Low for 5–6 hours or High for 2½–3 hours, until chicken is tender.
Step 4: Make Sauce
Remove chicken briefly. Stir in heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and cream cheese if using.
Step 5: Thicken (Optional)
If needed, add cornstarch slurry and cook 15 minutes more until sauce thickens.
Step 6: Finish
Return chicken to the slow cooker and coat in sauce. Garnish with parsley.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Time Taken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5–6 hours Low
- Total Time: About 6 hours
Servings
Serves 4–6 people
Nutritional Info (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 27g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 620mg
Benefits
- High in protein for muscle support
- Easy hands-off slow cooker meal
- Rich and satisfying comfort food
- Garlic adds flavor and natural antioxidants
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
- Pairs with many side dishes
Notes
- Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts.
- Fresh parmesan melts better than pre-shredded.
- Avoid overcooking breasts to keep them tender.
- Sauce thickens more as it cools.
Tips
- Sear chicken first for extra flavor.
- Add spinach or mushrooms in the last 30 minutes.
- Use half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Shred chicken into sauce for sandwiches or pasta.
- Add red pepper flakes for spice.
Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
For safety, thaw first before slow cooking.
Q: Can I make it low carb?
Yes, serve with cauliflower rice or vegetables.
Q: Can leftovers be stored?
Yes, refrigerate up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze up to 2 months, though cream sauces may separate slightly.
Q: What pasta goes best with it?
Fettuccine, penne, or rotini work great.