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Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

crockpot creamy garlic parmesan chicken - featured image

This crockpot creamy garlic parmesan chicken is a cozy, comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a silky, garlicky parmesan sauce. It’s an easy, family-friendly recipe perfect for busy weeknights or special Sunday dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 45 fresh garlic cloves, minced
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional)
  • Optional: 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • Optional: 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • Optional: 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and trim any excess fat. If extra thick, slice in half horizontally for even cooking.
  2. Arrange chicken breasts in an even layer at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. If using mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes, scatter them underneath and around the chicken.
  3. In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, heavy cream, grated parmesan, minced garlic, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and unsalted butter (if using). Whisk until mostly smooth.
  4. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken in the crockpot. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2.5-3 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender and the sauce is bubbling.
  6. If using baby spinach, stir it in during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking until wilted.
  7. Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or parmesan as needed. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness if desired.
  8. Serve chicken whole or shredded, spooning extra sauce over the top. Garnish with more parmesan and chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated parmesan and softened cream cheese. Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy. The sauce can be adjusted for thickness by leaving the lid off for the last 20 minutes or adding a splash of broth. This recipe is naturally gluten-free; check your broth and seasonings to be sure. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese or half-and-half. Leftovers are great for meal prep and can be served over pasta, rice, or in sandwiches.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken, creamy garlic parmesan chicken, slow cooker chicken, family dinner, easy chicken recipe, comfort food, Italian chicken, gluten-free, low carb, meal prep