This Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken is super easy and has just four simple ingredients! Juicy chicken cooks slowly with tasty garlic and parmesan for a dish that’s packed with flavor.
Who doesn’t love a meal that practically cooks itself? I love how this chicken is perfect over pasta or rice—your favorite sides just got a tasty friend! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: The star of this dish! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for tenderness. If you prefer, use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and depth to the dish. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or even water if you’re short on ingredients—just add a bit more seasoning to compensate.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a rich, cheesy flavor. If you’re out, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the dish’s flavor. Garlic powder can work in a pinch, though fresh is usually best. If you want something milder, try using shallots instead.
How Do I Get the Chicken to Be Super Tender?
The slow cooking method is key to achieving tender chicken! Cooking on low for 6-7 hours allows the chicken to break down perfectly. If you’re in a hurry, high for 3-4 hours is fine, but keep an eye on it to prevent dryness.
- Start with placing chicken breasts at the bottom; they’ll absorb all that delicious broth and garlic flavor.
- Shredding the chicken in the crockpot helps mix flavors well. Using two forks makes this easy; the chicken should practically fall apart!
Mixing it back into the sauce ensures that every bite is flavorful and juicy. Enjoy your scrumptious meal!
4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you can let your crockpot do the work! Cook it on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender. It’s super easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the main component of your dish, so make sure they are nicely arranged.
2. Add the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over the chicken breasts evenly. This will keep the chicken moist and flavorful as it cooks.
3. Season It Up:
Add the minced garlic directly on top of the chicken and broth. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over everything. You’ll love the cheesy goodness!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and can be easily shredded.
5. Shred and Mix:
Once the cooking time is up, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Mix it all together with the delicious garlic and cheese sauce that has formed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your garlic Parmesan chicken over pasta, rice, or even on its own. If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a little extra color and flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just be sure to add about an additional hour to the cooking time. This ensures the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature while still being tender and delicious. It’s best to use the slow cooker settings, as high heat can cause uneven cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute Parmesan with grated Pecorino Romano or even a mix of mozzarella and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Just remember, different cheeses may alter the final taste slightly, so feel free to adjust the amount according to your preference!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth to keep it moist!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to the crockpot. You may want to add them during the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming too mushy. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking!
