Slow cooker garlic parmesan has become my absolute go-to for weeknight dinners, especially when I need something comforting and flavorful without the fuss. I remember the first time I tried making it; the aroma of garlic and savory Parmesan filling my kitchen as it slowly cooked was pure magic. This easy slow cooker garlic parmesan recipe turns simple ingredients into a creamy, delicious meal that the whole family devours. It’s truly a lifesaver for busy evenings when you want a hearty, homemade dish. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan
- Incredible flavor: Savory garlic and rich Parmesan create a mouthwatering taste.
- Minimal prep: Just 15 minutes of chopping and you’re done!
- Family-favorite: This garlic parmesan slow cooker chicken is a hit with all ages.
- Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients for a satisfying meal.
- Healthy-ish: Packed with protein from the chicken and veggies.
- Effortless cooking: Let your slow cooker do all the work.
- Versatile: This garlic parmesan slow cooker chicken recipe is perfect for any night.
- Comforting and creamy: It’s the ultimate cozy meal.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making my favorite slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken. You’ll be amazed at how these humble items transform into a rich, flavorful stew right in your slow cooker.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs – these stay incredibly moist in the slow cooker
- 1 cup chicken broth – the base for our creamy sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – for that luxurious, decadent texture
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty depth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that garlic punch you love
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs that complements everything
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – just a touch of warmth
- 1 cup chopped carrots – for a touch of sweetness and color
- 1 cup chopped celery – adds a subtle savory note
- 1 cup chopped potatoes – makes the stew hearty and filling
- 1/2 cup chopped onion – builds a foundational flavor
How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan
Let’s get this incredibly easy slow cooker garlic parmesan dish going! It’s truly one of the simplest ways to get a delicious, home-cooked meal on the table with minimal effort. I love how the ingredients meld together to create something so comforting.
- Step 1: Get your slow cooker ready by placing the 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs directly into the insert.
- Step 2: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the 1 cup chicken broth, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. This liquid mixture is the flavor powerhouse for our dish.
- Step 3: Pour this creamy, garlicky liquid mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. You’ll already start to smell the deliciousness!
- Step 4: Now, add all your chopped vegetables: 1 cup chopped carrots, 1 cup chopped celery, 1 cup chopped potatoes, and 1/2 cup chopped onion. Distribute them around the chicken.
- Step 5: Cover your slow cooker. You have two options for cooking: set it to LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. I usually opt for the low setting for a more tender result, but high works great if you’re short on time. This is a key part of how to make slow cooker garlic parmesan.
- Step 6: Once the cooking time is up, the chicken should be cooked through and the vegetables wonderfully tender. Carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken.
- Step 7: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir everything together. The sauce will thicken slightly from the shredded chicken and vegetables. You’re now moments away from enjoying your meal!
- Step 8: Serve this amazing slow cooker garlic parmesan hot. It’s perfect on its own or with some crusty bread to soak up all that creamy sauce.
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan
To ensure your slow cooker garlic parmesan is absolutely perfect every time, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make a real difference:
- Don’t skip the low setting if you have time; it yields incredibly tender chicken and melded flavors.
- For an even richer sauce, you can add a splash more heavy cream at the end, but be careful not to boil it.
- Ensure your vegetables are cut into roughly uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving – a little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference.
What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan?
The secret to the best slow cooker garlic parmesan is a combination of quality ingredients and patience. Using chicken thighs ensures moisture, and letting the slow cooker work its magic on low heat allows the flavors to develop beautifully. Don’t rush the process!
Can I make Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can prep all the ingredients the night before and store them in the slow cooker insert in the refrigerator. Just add the liquid ingredients in the morning before you start cooking. This makes your morning routine even smoother. For more tips on meal prep, check out our homepage.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan?
A common pitfall is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry. Stick to the recommended cook times. Also, ensure you use enough liquid; if it seems too dry, add a bit more chicken broth. Finally, don’t over-salt, as the Parmesan cheese is already salty. For more cooking advice, you can visit our about me page.
Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan
This comforting slow cooker garlic parmesan is so versatile, making it perfect for a variety of occasions. It’s a fantastic base for so many delicious meals. Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions for these garlic parmesan slow cooker dinner ideas.
- Crusty Bread: I always serve this stew with a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread. It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that creamy, garlicky sauce.
- Over Pasta: Try serving it over a bed of cooked egg noodles or your favorite pasta for a heartier meal. The sauce clings beautifully to the pasta.
- With Rice: A simple side of fluffy white or brown rice also works wonderfully to complement the rich flavors of this dish. For tips on cooking rice, you can consult Simply Recipes.
Nutrition Facts for Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan
When you’re enjoying this comforting slow cooker garlic parmesan, it’s helpful to know what you’re consuming. This recipe is designed to be both delicious and satisfying. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving.
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on understanding nutrition labels, see the FDA’s guide.
How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan
Properly storing your delicious slow cooker garlic parmesan is key to enjoying those amazing leftovers. Once the stew has cooled slightly, transfer it into airtight containers. For refrigeration, it will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it longer, freezing is a great option for your slow cooker garlic parmesan leftovers. Wrap it tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it should last for up to 3 months. You can find more about safe food storage practices at FoodSafety.gov.
When you’re ready to reheat, there are a few simple methods. You can gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using either the stovetop or microwave method.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this slow cooker garlic parmesan recipe?
You can, but chicken thighs are my preference for this dish because they stay incredibly moist and tender in the slow cooker, even with longer cooking times. If you use chicken breasts, I recommend reducing the cooking time slightly to prevent them from drying out. Keep an eye on them! For more on choosing chicken cuts, see our contact page.
What other vegetables can I add to my slow cooker garlic parmesan?
This recipe is very forgiving! I love adding mushrooms, peas, or even some chopped bell peppers along with the carrots, celery, and potatoes. Just make sure they are cut into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. It’s a great way to use up whatever veggies you have on hand.
How do I make this a creamy slow cooker garlic parmesan pasta dish?
To turn this into a pasta dish, simply cook your favorite pasta separately according to package directions. Once the chicken and vegetables are cooked and shredded in the slow cooker, you can stir in the cooked pasta directly into the stew. Alternatively, serve the stew over a bed of cooked pasta. You might need a little extra broth or cream to ensure the sauce is saucy enough for the pasta.
Is this a good slow cooker chicken garlic parmesan recipe for meal prep?
Absolutely! This slow cooker chicken garlic parmesan recipe is fantastic for meal prep. Once cooked and cooled, portion the stew into airtight containers. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop, making it perfect for lunches throughout the week or for busy weeknights when you don’t have time to cook. You can read about our privacy policy for more information.
Variations of Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan You Can Try
This wonderfully versatile slow cooker garlic parmesan recipe is a fantastic base that you can easily adapt to suit your tastes or dietary needs. I love experimenting with different flavors and methods to keep things interesting!
- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: For a heartier meal, cook your favorite pasta separately and toss it with the finished stew in the slow cooker. The sauce clings beautifully to the noodles, creating a delicious creamy slow cooker garlic parmesan pasta dish. You might need a splash more broth to make it extra saucy for the pasta.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the slow cooker along with the other vegetables. It adds a lovely warmth that complements the garlic and Parmesan beautifully.
- Vegetarian Version: For a meatless meal, swap the chicken thighs for hearty white beans or extra potatoes and add some mushrooms. You’ll still get all the delicious garlic parmesan flavor!
- Lighter Option: If you want a slightly lighter dish, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even a dairy-free milk alternative like unsweetened cashew milk, though the texture will be less rich.
Flavorful Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan: 7 Tips
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes - 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and creamy Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew that is perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe delivers impressive homemade flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped potatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
Instructions
- Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Add chopped carrots, celery, potatoes, and onion to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Shred chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker.
- Stir everything together. Serve hot.
Notes
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
- For a thicker stew, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- This slow cooker garlic parmesan chicken stew is also delicious with added mushrooms or peas.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-8 hours
- Category: Stew
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 150mg