This 4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken is super easy and oh-so-delicious! With just chicken, garlic, parmesan cheese, and a hint of seasoning, it’s a meal you’ll love.
I find it amazing how such simple ingredients can turn into a cozy dinner! Serve it over rice or pasta for a tasty family meal. You might even get a few “wow!”s at the table! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they cook easily and absorb the flavors. If you prefer dark meat, you can use boneless chicken thighs instead; they add a richer taste.
Parmesan Cheese: While grated Parmesan is the star here for its sharp, salty flavor, grated Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast are good alternatives for a little twist or vegan option. Just remember to adjust the quantity to taste.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce creamy and delicious. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a mix of milk with a bit of flour to thicken. For dairy-free needs, consider coconut milk as a substitute, though it’ll alter the flavor a bit.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a fantastic flavor to the dish. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with garlic powder, though I prefer using fresh as it has a stronger taste. Just 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder can replace one clove of fresh garlic.
How Do You Make Chicken Tender in a Crockpot?
Getting chicken perfectly tender in a crockpot is easy if you follow a few simple steps. The key is low and slow cooking to allow the chicken to absorb all those flavors while breaking down tougher fibers without drying out.
- Start by placing the chicken at the bottom of the crockpot. This helps it soak up the juices.
- Coat the chicken well with the cream and cheese mixture to lock in moisture.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This longer time on low is perfect to achieve tenderness.
- When done, shred the chicken with two forks right in the crockpot, mixing it with the sauce to keep it moist.
4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound chicken breast (boneless and skinless)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then you can let the crockpot do the work for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want a tasty meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the base for your flavorful dish, so try to spread them out evenly.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, take the grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and minced garlic. Stir them together until everything is well mixed and creamy. This will be the delicious sauce that brings everything together!
3. Combine in the Crockpot:
Now pour the creamy cheese mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure all the chicken is nicely coated with the sauce for maximum flavor. Yum!
4. Cook:
Cover your crockpot with its lid and choose to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. When the chicken is cooked through and tender, you’ll know it’s ready. The smell will be amazing!
5. Shred and Combine:
Once the chicken is done, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Give it a good stir to mix the shredded chicken with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s all coming together now!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up the garlic Parmesan chicken over your favorite pasta, rice, or enjoy it even on its own. If you like, you can add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for that extra cheesy goodness. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to adjust the cooking time! If cooking on low, you may need to add an extra hour or so to ensure it cooks through completely. For best results, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before using.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or need a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut cream or a mixture of milk and cornstarch. For every cup of heavy cream, combine 3/4 cup of milk with 1/4 cup of cornstarch to thicken it up. Keep in mind this may slightly change the flavor and richness.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, portion it in freezer-safe containers, and it’ll last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it gently on the stove.
How Can I Thicken the Sauce Further?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with a little water towards the end of the cooking time. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your liking!
