Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours on LOW or 2–3 hours on HIGH
Total Time: Approximately 4–5 hours
Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Chicken
– 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream
– ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– ½ cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– ½ teaspoon dried parsley
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnishing
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– ¼ cup additional Parmesan cheese
– Freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
1. Remove chicken breasts from their packaging.
2. Pat the chicken dry using paper towels.
3. If the chicken breasts are very thick, gently pound them to an even thickness.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
5. Season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
6. Rub the seasonings evenly over the chicken.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter
1. Place a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Add butter and allow it to melt.
3. Add minced garlic.
4. Cook for approximately 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
5. Avoid browning or burning the garlic.
6. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
1. In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream and chicken broth.
2. Add softened cream cheese.
3. Pour in the melted garlic butter.
4. Add Italian seasoning, dried parsley, and black pepper.
5. Whisk until the mixture is mostly smooth.
6. Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese.
4. Assemble the Slow Cooker
1. Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker.
2. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer.
3. Pour the creamy garlic Parmesan mixture over the chicken.
4. Turn the chicken gently to coat both sides.
5. Make sure the sauce is distributed evenly around the chicken.
5. Slow Cook the Chicken
1. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
2. Cook on LOW for approximately 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.
3. Avoid opening the lid frequently.
4. Check the thickest part of the chicken using a food thermometer.
5. The chicken must reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. The chicken should be tender and juicy.
6. Make the Sauce Extra Creamy
1. Carefully remove the cooked chicken and place it on a serving plate.
2. Stir the sauce inside the slow cooker.
3. Add the remaining Parmesan cheese.
4. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce.
5. If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water.
6. Stir the mixture into the sauce and cook on HIGH for approximately 10–15 minutes until thickened.
7. Return the Chicken to the Sauce
1. Place the chicken breasts back into the slow cooker.
2. Spoon the creamy Parmesan sauce generously over each piece.
3. Cover and let everything rest for approximately 5 minutes.
4. This allows the chicken to absorb the delicious garlic and cheese flavors.
8. Garnish and Serve
1. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken.
2. Add extra grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper.
4. Spoon additional creamy sauce over the chicken.
5. Serve immediately while warm.
Enjoy with mashed potatoes, buttered pasta, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread!
Nutrition Information
Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings.
Nutrient Amount
Calories 430–490 kcal
Protein 42–48 g
Carbohydrates 4–7 g
Total Fat 25–30 g
Saturated Fat 14–17 g
Fiber 0–1 g
Sugar 2–3 g
Sodium 550–750 mg
Nutrition values are estimates and vary depending on chicken size, Parmesan, cream, and broth brands.
Nut & Allergen Information
No nuts intentionally included
– Peanuts: Not included.
– Tree Nuts: Not included.
– Dairy: Contains butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
– Gluten/Wheat: No wheat ingredients are required, but check broth and seasoning labels.
– Soy: Check packaged ingredients for possible soy.
– Other Allergens: Check all packaged products for cross-contact warnings.
Nut-Free Note: This recipe does not require peanuts or tree nuts. Always check ingredient labels and use clean cookware when preparing food for someone with a serious nut allergy.
Q/S – Questions & Suggestions
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative. They stay juicy and absorb the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce beautifully.
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. For a richer consistency, use heavy cream or half-and-half.
Q: Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
Yes! However, freshly grated Parmesan generally melts more smoothly and creates a creamier sauce.
Q: Can I add mushrooms?
Absolutely! Sliced mushrooms add wonderful flavor. Add them around the chicken before slow cooking.
Q: Can I add spinach?
Yes! Add fresh baby spinach during the final 10–15 minutes of cooking until wilted.
Q: How do I make the sauce thicker?
Add a cornstarch slurry made with equal parts cornstarch and cold water. Stir into the hot sauce until thickened.
Q: Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a little Cajun seasoning.
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Season the chicken and prepare the sauce ingredients ahead of time. Keep refrigerated and assemble shortly before cooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
Q: Can I freeze creamy garlic Parmesan chicken?
Yes, although cream sauces can separate slightly after thawing. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months for best quality.
Q: What should I serve with creamy Parmesan chicken?
It pairs beautifully with:
– Fettuccine or penne pasta
– Creamy mashed potatoes
– Steamed broccoli
– Roasted asparagus
– Garlic bread
– Buttered rice
– Fresh garden salad
Chef’s Tips for the Best Results
– Choose chicken breasts of similar thickness for even cooking.
– Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor.
– Freshly grated Parmesan creates a smoother sauce.
– Avoid overcooking the chicken.
– Add Parmesan near the end for the best sauce texture.
– Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness.
– Add spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
– Spoon extra sauce over the chicken just before serving.
Final Result: Beautifully tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, velvety garlic Parmesan sauce with fresh herbs and melted cheese. Every bite is creamy, savory, buttery, and full of comforting homemade flavor. A delicious CrockPot dinner your whole family will love!