This 4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken is super easy to make! Just toss chicken, garlic, Parmesan, and a few seasonings into the slow cooker, and let it do its magic!
You won’t believe how juicy and flavorful this chicken gets! I love pairing it with rice or veggies for a yummy dinner that practically cooks itself. Who doesn’t love that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my favorite for their juiciness and flavor, but breasts work too if you prefer leaner meat. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using firm tofu or tempeh instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the dish a great flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be used as substitutes. For a dairy-free option, consider using nutritional yeast to get that cheesy flavor.
Cream Cheese: This adds a rich and creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan cream cheese. You could also use cashew cream as a lighter alternative if you blend soaked cashews with water until smooth.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the way to go for flavor, but if you don’t have it, garlic powder can work in a pinch. Just use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove of fresh garlic.
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right in the Crockpot?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot is super simple, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure it turns out tender and delicious.
- Start by placing your chicken at the bottom of the crockpot; this helps it cook evenly.
- Layer the cheese mixture over the chicken. Make sure it’s well coated for maximum flavor.
- Cook on low for the best results, as this preserves moisture and tenderness. If you’re short on time, cooking on high works too, but keep an eye on the timing.
- After cooking, shred the chicken directly in the pot. This helps infuse the meat with the delicious creamy sauce.
4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious garlic Parmesan chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then you’ll let it cook in the crockpot for 3 to 8 hours, depending on your cooking setting. If you cook on low, it will take about 6 to 8 hours, while cooking on high will only take about 3 to 4 hours. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Layer the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless chicken thighs or breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they are spread out evenly for even cooking.
2. Mix the Garlic and Cheese:
In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic. Stir them together until they are well mixed and creamy.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Pour the cheesy garlic mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Ensure that each piece of chicken is generously coated with that delicious mixture.
4. Cook and Combine:
Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. When the time is up, check that the chicken is tender and fully cooked. Use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot, mixing it with the creamy sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your garlic Parmesan chicken over cooked pasta or rice, or pair it with steamed vegetables. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work just as well as thighs. Just be mindful that chicken breasts may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness around the 3-hour mark on high or 5 hours on low to prevent drying out.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese, you can substitute it with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Just mix well to ensure a uniform sauce. If using Greek yogurt, add it towards the end of cooking to prevent curdling.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it thicken too much.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked garlic Parmesan chicken for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove.
