This easy crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken is perfect for busy days! With just four simple ingredients, including chicken, garlic, and Parmesan, it’s flavorful and so tender.
You’ll love how the chicken cooks slowly, soaking up all the yummy flavors. I often serve it with rice or pasta, and it turns into a comforting meal that everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. If you want to switch it up, you can use thighs instead for extra flavor. Just remember that cooking times may vary a bit due to the different textures.
Alfredo Sauce: Store-bought Alfredo sauce simplifies the process, but homemade is a lovely option too. If you’re looking for a lighter version, a creamy cauliflower sauce works well as a substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds that fantastic cheesy flavor. You could swap it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates this recipe. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder instead, about 1 teaspoon should do the trick. Dried minced garlic is another option if that’s what you have on hand.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken Stays Moist and Tender?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot is a fantastic way to keep it juicy! Here are some tips for that tender chicken every time:
- Make sure to coat the chicken thoroughly with the sauce mixture. This locks in moisture!
- Keep the lid on while cooking to reduce steam loss. This helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Cooking on low is key! It takes longer but results in softer chicken. Just 4-6 hours should do the trick.
- Shred the chicken gently with forks after cooking; doing this in the sauce will help infuse more flavor.
How to Make 4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crockpot chicken dish will take about 10 minutes for prep and between 4 to 6 hours to cook. So, you can set it and forget it while it cooks beautifully throughout the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts right at the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the foundation for your tasty dish!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Use a fork or a whisk to mix it well until it’s smooth and well combined. This creamy mixture will make your chicken so flavorful!
3. Combine and Coat:
Now, pour the tasty sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure you cover the chicken entirely so it locks in all the flavor while cooking.
4. Cook Everything Together:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for about 4 to 6 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s fully cooked and super tender!
5. Shred and Stir:
Once the cooking time is up, take the chicken out of the crockpot and shred it using two forks. After shredding, return the chicken to the pot and stir it into the creamy sauce to combine everything well.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your garlic Parmesan chicken is now ready to serve! It goes great over pasta or alongside some fresh vegetables. Enjoy the delicious flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best if you thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the chicken by placing it in the fridge overnight or by submerging it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about an hour. If you must cook from frozen, increase the cooking time by an hour, but check with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
Can I Substitute the Alfredo Sauce?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Alfredo sauce, you can substitute it with a homemade cream sauce or even a jarred white sauce. You could mix some cream with butter and garlic for a quick alternative, or use a mix of sour cream and milk for a similar creamy texture.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or microwave. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
What Should I Serve with Garlic Parm Chicken?
This garlic Parmesan chicken pairs wonderfully with pasta, but you can also serve it with rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad. For a healthier option, steamed vegetables or roasted broccoli make a great side dish!
