Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken

By bhutta shaharyar

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Description

This creamy, savory chicken dish is a comforting, low-effort meal made in a slow cooker. Tender chicken breasts (or thighs) are cooked in a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce with herbs and cream, creating a flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or vegetables. Perfect for busy days, it requires minimal prep and delivers restaurant-quality taste.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Optional: spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Prep Chicken
    Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Sear (Optional but Recommended)
    Heat olive oil in a pan and lightly sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side.
  3. Add to Slow Cooker
    Place chicken in the slow cooker. Add garlic, butter, chicken broth, and cream.
  4. Cook
    • Low: 5–6 hours
    • High: 3–4 hours
  5. Add Parmesan
    About 30 minutes before serving, stir in Parmesan cheese.
  6. Optional Add-ins
    Add spinach or mushrooms during the last 20–30 minutes.
  7. Serve
    Serve hot over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Servings

  • Makes: 4 servings

Time

  • Prep: 10–15 minutes
  • Cook: 3–6 hours
  • Total: ~4–6 hours

Nutritional Information (Approx per serving)

  • Calories: 420–480 kcal
  • Protein: 35–40g
  • Fat: 28–32g
  • Carbs: 4–6g
  • Calcium: High (due to Parmesan)

Tips

  • Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-packaged.
  • Don’t overcook—chicken can dry out if left too long.
  • If sauce is too thin, mix 1 tsp cornstarch with water and stir in.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness.

Notes

  • This dish thickens naturally as it cools.
  • Works well as a low-carb/keto meal when served with vegetables.
  • Can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for 2 months.

Benefits

  • High Protein: Supports muscle growth and satiety
  • Low Carb Option: Great for keto-friendly diets
  • Easy Meal Prep: Minimal hands-on cooking
  • Rich in Calcium: From Parmesan cheese
  • Comfort Food: Creamy and satisfying

Q & A

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but thawing first ensures even cooking and better texture.

Q: Can I substitute the cream?
A: You can use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be thinner.

Q: How do I make it healthier?
A: Use light cream, reduce cheese slightly, and add more vegetables.

Q: What can I serve with it?
A: Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, zucchini noodles, or roasted veggies.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Substitute coconut cream and nutritional yeast, though flavor will differ.

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