Introduction
Welcome to a cozy kitchen adventure where comfort food meets effortless cooking! This Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a dish that envelops you in warmth and satisfaction. With tender chicken simmered in a velvety, rich sauce of cream and garlic, it is the perfect meal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal fuss. Just imagine walking into your home to the enticing aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through the air — pure bliss!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot, creating a cozy nest for them to soak up all the delicious flavors.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well blended and creamy.
- Pour this luscious cream mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring that each piece of chicken is generously coated for maximum flavor.
- Cover the crockpot and let the magic happen! Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
- Once the cooking time is up, gently remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks, letting those exquisite flavors mingle with the tender meat.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, stirring well to coat it thoroughly in that creamy, dreamy sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and a burst of freshness!
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or some sautéed mushrooms to the cream mixture before pouring it over the chicken. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a side of steamed vegetables. Don’t forget to save the leftovers — the flavors deepen even more after a night in the fridge!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights the wonders of slow cooking. Using a crockpot allows the chicken to tenderize beautifully while soaking up all those savory garlic and Parmesan flavors. The low-and-slow method ensures that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful, while the cream creates a rich sauce that’s just begging to be mopped up with crusty bread!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Absolutely! You can add frozen chicken directly to the crockpot, but you may need to increase the cooking time by an hour or so.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy.
What can I serve with this dish?
This creamy chicken is fantastic over pasta, rice, or even in a warm pita. Add a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal!
Conclusion
This Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a plate. With its simplistic preparation and delightful outcome, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. So grab those ingredients, set the timer, and get ready to enjoy a flavor-packed dinner that practically cooks itself!