Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Delight
Ready for a creamy delight that will make your dinner routine exciting? My Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a game-changer! Imagine tender chicken soaked in a rich, garlicky sauce, cooked to perfection with minimal effort. In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step, from choosing the right ingredients to serving it up with style. Let’s dive in and make your next meal unforgettable!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: This recipe allows for a quick prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of garlic, cream, and Parmesan creates a deliciously rich sauce that enhances the chicken.
- Versatile Serving Options: It pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or vegetables, making it easy to customize based on what you have on hand.
- Slow Cooking Convenience: The crockpot does all the work, allowing you to set it and forget it while you go about your day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Chicken is the star of this dish. I prefer boneless, skinless breasts for easy cooking. They soak up the sauce well. Heavy cream adds richness and smoothness. The Parmesan cheese gives a salty and nutty flavor. Garlic makes everything better! Italian seasoning adds extra depth to the taste. Seasoning with salt and pepper enhances all the flavors.
Pantry Essentials
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Chicken broth adds moisture and flavor. It helps keep the chicken tender. I use olive oil to sear the chicken. It gives a nice golden crust.
Garnish
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
– Optional toppings like extra Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley brightens the dish. It adds a pop of green and freshness. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for a cheesy touch. This makes the dish look fancy and appetizing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Searing the Chicken
– Preparing the Chicken
Start with four boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Rinse them under cool water and pat them dry. This helps the seasonings stick better. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
– Cooking in the Skillet
In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want a nice golden-brown crust. This step adds flavor and makes the chicken juicy. After searing, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
Making the Creamy Sauce
– Combining Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together one cup of chicken broth, one cup of heavy cream, six cloves of minced garlic, and one cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Make sure everything blends well. This will be your delicious sauce that makes the chicken creamy and rich.
– Ensuring Smoothness
Check the mixture for any lumps. It should be smooth and creamy. If needed, whisk again until you get the right texture. A smooth sauce ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Cooking in the Crockpot
– Layering Chicken and Sauce
Place the seared chicken breasts in the crockpot in a single layer. Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the chicken. Ensure each piece is well-coated. This helps the chicken absorb all the flavors while cooking.
– Setting Cooking Time
Cover the crockpot with its lid. Set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Check the chicken at the end of the cooking time. It should be tender and cooked through. This slow cooking makes the chicken so soft and flavorful.
Shredding and Serving
– Shredding Technique
Once the cooking time is up, use two forks to shred the chicken inside the crockpot. This makes it easier to mix with the sauce. The chicken should fall apart easily. Stir the shredded chicken in the sauce to coat it well.
– Serving Suggestions
Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken over rice, pasta, or alongside steamed veggies. For a nice touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. This adds color and a fresh flavor to your dish. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Sear
Achieving Golden-Brown Chicken
To get that nice golden color, heat olive oil on medium. Season your chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken. Sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This step adds flavor and texture.
Seasoning Tips
Don’t be shy with the seasonings! Generous amounts of salt and pepper work wonders. Garlic powder and Italian seasoning add depth. You’ll notice the difference in every bite.
Modifying Cooking Times
Adjusting for Different Heat Settings
Cooking times vary with heat settings. On low, expect to cook for 6-7 hours. If you’re in a hurry, use high for 3-4 hours. Always check that the chicken is fully cooked before serving.
Tips for Tender Chicken
For the best texture, don’t rush the cooking. Cooking on low allows the chicken to soak up flavors. If you find your chicken is tough, it may need more time.
Enhancing Flavor
Additional Seasonings
Want to spice things up? Try adding red pepper flakes for heat. Herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the dish. Mix and match to create your own twist!
Pairing Suggestions
This creamy dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or vegetables. Serve it over steamed broccoli or nestled next to mashed potatoes. Each option adds a nice balance to the meal.
Pro Tips
- Perfectly Sear the Chicken: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. A good sear will lock in juices and enhance flavor.
- Use Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced. It adds a vibrant taste to the dish.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick after cooking, you can thin it out with a little more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Meal Prep Ready: This dish is perfect for meal prep! It reheats well and can be served with various sides throughout the week.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
Healthier Options
You can make this dish lighter by using chicken thighs instead of breasts. They have more flavor and stay juicy. For a lower-calorie sauce, swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt. This will still give you creaminess without the extra fat.
Dairy-Free Alternatives
If you want a dairy-free version, replace heavy cream with coconut milk. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. This keeps your meal creamy and delicious without dairy.
Different Cooking Methods
Instant Pot Instructions
To cook this in an Instant Pot, sear the chicken first in the pot. Then, mix the sauce ingredients as you would for the crockpot. Add the chicken and sauce, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Quick release the pressure, shred the chicken, and mix it with the sauce.
Oven-Baked Version
For an oven-baked version, sear the chicken in a skillet. Then, place it in a baking dish. Pour the sauce over the chicken and cover it with foil. Bake at 375°F for about 30-35 minutes. This gives a nice baked texture while keeping it moist.
Flavor Profiles
Adding Vegetables
You can easily add vegetables to this dish. Try adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Bell peppers or mushrooms also work well. Just toss them in the crockpot with the chicken and sauce.
Spicy Versions
Want some heat? Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. This will give your dish a nice kick. You can adjust the spice level based on your taste. Enjoy the creamy and spicy mix!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for later meals. You can refrigerate it for 3-4 days. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
Freezing
To freeze this creamy chicken, let it cool completely. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out excess air to prevent freezer burn. It stays good for up to three months.
For thawing, move it to the fridge overnight. This keeps the chicken safe and tasty. You can also use the microwave. Just be sure to use the defrost setting.
Reheating Tips
You can reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. For the microwave, put it in a safe dish. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between.
For stovetop, warm it in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of cream if it looks thick. This keeps the dish creamy and delicious. Enjoy your meal again!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe. When using frozen chicken, you need to adjust the cooking time. Cook it on high for about 5-6 hours. The chicken will stay juicy and tender. Just ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also mix milk with a little cornstarch. Use a ratio of 1 cup of milk with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. This will help mimic the creaminess you want.
How can I thicken the sauce more?
To thicken the sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the sauce about 30 minutes before the cooking ends. Alternatively, you can let the sauce cook longer with the lid off to reduce it.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this dish can be gluten-free. Just ensure your chicken broth and any added seasonings do not contain gluten. Most chicken broths are gluten-free, but it’s best to check the label. Enjoy this creamy delight without any worries!
This blog post gave you a clear path to a creamy chicken dish. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and storage tips. You now know how to achieve the perfect sear and can even try different cooking styles. Remember, you can modify flavors and ingredients to fit your taste. This dish is both flexible and delicious, making it a great choice for meals. Enjoy your cooking, and don’t shy away from experimenting to make it your ow
Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- for garnish Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Carefully place the chicken in the hot skillet and sear for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Place the seared chicken breasts into the crockpot in a single layer. Pour the creamy garlic mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is generously coated.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Once the cooking time is complete, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Stir the shredded chicken to incorporate it with the creamy sauce.
- Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Dish out the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken over a bed of rice, pasta, or alongside steamed vegetables for a delightful meal.
![- 2 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each) - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 1 green bell pepper, diced - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup coconut milk - 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish) - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Salt and pepper to taste The ingredients for Cajun salmon and shrimp are simple yet packed with flavor. The salmon fillets and shrimp provide a great base. You can choose fresh or frozen shrimp, but I recommend fresh for the best taste. Cajun seasoning adds that unique kick. You can buy it or make your own with spices like paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder. Next, the colorful bell peppers and onion bring a sweet crunch. Garlic adds a nice aroma and flavor. Cherry tomatoes give a juicy burst. Coconut milk adds creaminess and balance to the spice. Finally, green onions and parsley brighten the dish. This dish is healthy and filling. Each serving has around 400 calories. You get about 30 grams of protein, 20 grams of fat, and 15 grams of carbs. It also has 3 grams of fiber, which is great for digestion. Pair this dish with fluffy rice or a fresh salad. Rice soaks up the sauce nicely. A crisp green salad adds freshness. For drinks, a cold white wine or iced tea works well. Enjoying this dish with a light beverage enhances the flavors. For the full recipe, check out the detailed cooking instructions. Start by patting the salmon and shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Season the salmon on both sides with one tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. For the shrimp, toss them with the remaining seasoning in a bowl. Make sure the shrimp are covered well. Set both aside while you prepare the rest. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables for about five minutes. Stir them occasionally until they soften. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for one more minute. This brings out a lovely flavor. Push the veggies to one side of the skillet. Place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down in the other side. Cook them for about four to five minutes. When they are golden brown, carefully flip the fillets. Cook for another four minutes. The salmon should flake easily when done. Remove it and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the other tablespoon of olive oil. Next, toss in the seasoned shrimp. Cook them for about two to three minutes, stirring gently. They should turn pink and opaque. This shows they are done and ready for the next step. Now, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour in one cup of coconut milk and stir well. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for another two to three minutes. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. This sauce is rich and creamy! Carefully return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet. Nestle them among the shrimp and sauce. Spoon some sauce over the salmon to keep it moist. Let everything cook together for an additional two minutes. This melds the flavors beautifully. For the full recipe, check out the section above. Enjoy your Cajun salmon and shrimp! To cook salmon and shrimp just right, timing is key. Salmon takes about 8-10 minutes total. Cook it for 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip. For shrimp, cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Use a fork to test the salmon. If it flakes easily, it’s ready. Shrimp should be opaque and firm. You can make your own Cajun seasoning at home. Use these basic spices: - Paprika - Cayenne pepper - Onion powder - Garlic powder - Black pepper - Oregano - Thyme Adjust the heat by adding more cayenne for spice or less for a milder flavor. This way, you control the heat level to fit your taste. Plating is important for making your dish pop. Serve the salmon and shrimp on a large platter. Drizzle some extra coconut sauce around the edge for flair. Add bright green garnishes like chopped parsley and green onions. They bring color and freshness. You can also add a side of fluffy rice or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. {{image_4}} You can switch up the proteins in this dish. Try using cod or tilapia instead of salmon. Both of these fish cook well and soak up flavors nicely. For shrimp lovers, scallops can add a sweet touch. If you're looking for vegetarian choices, consider using hearty vegetables. Zucchini and bell peppers work great when grilled. You can also use firm tofu, which absorbs flavors and adds protein. Changing the seasoning can add a new twist. If you want a milder taste, reduce the Cajun seasoning. You can also blend in herbs like thyme or basil. For more heat, add cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños. These spices will give your dish a nice kick. Experimenting with flavors can make each meal special. Pair this dish with tasty sides to make it shine. Fluffy rice or quinoa absorbs the sauce well. A fresh salad with greens and citrus can balance the spices. For gatherings, serve it family-style on a large platter. This way, everyone can dig in and share the joy of this delicious meal. Don't forget to have some crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce from the Cajun salmon and shrimp. For the full experience, check out the Full Recipe for details. To keep your Cajun salmon and shrimp fresh, refrigerate leftovers within two hours. Place them in airtight containers. This keeps moisture in and flavors intact. You can store them for up to three days. It’s best to separate salmon from shrimp if you want to maintain their textures. When reheating, avoid drying out your seafood. The best method is to use a skillet. Heat it over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth. Cover the pan to trap steam. This keeps the seafood moist and flavorful. You can also use a microwave. Just cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. If you want to store your dish for a longer time, freezing is a good option. Let the dish cool completely first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it gently on the stove. This method preserves both taste and texture. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them before cooking. This helps the shrimp cook evenly. I suggest placing them in cold water for about 20 minutes. This method keeps them firm and tasty. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Check for a light pink color inside. It should not be translucent. If you have a food thermometer, aim for 145°F. This ensures it’s safe to eat. If you don't have coconut milk, try cream or milk. You can also use almond milk for a lighter option. Each substitute changes the dish's flavor a bit, but it will still be tasty. Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Cook a batch and store it in airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it gently to enjoy a quick meal. Cajun seasoning has a mild to medium spice level. It adds flavor without being too hot. If you prefer less heat, you can use less seasoning. For more spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Yes, feel free to add more vegetables! Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach are great choices. Just make sure to chop them small. Add them when you sauté the onions and peppers for even cooking. For the full recipe, click [Full Recipe]. This article covered a tasty seafood dish featuring salmon and shrimp, seasoned with Cajun flair. You learned about the ingredients, cooking steps, and ways to adapt the recipe. Remember to achieve perfect doneness with both the salmon and shrimp for the best result. Don't hesitate to play with flavors or pairings to suit your taste. Making this dish can impress family or friends while keeping it simple. Enjoy your cooking journey and share this recipe with others!](https://fastmealmate.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/17932171-8cf4-4553-ac77-c5634fbfd80e-768x768.webp)
![- 8 oz chorizo sausage, casing removed and crumbled - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies - 4 cups chicken broth - Avocado slices - Fresh cilantro - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste Gathering the right ingredients is key to making your soup flavorful. Chorizo sausage gives this dish its rich, spicy taste. I love using diced tomatoes with green chilies for added depth. Chicken broth serves as the base, making the soup hearty and satisfying. You can add avocado slices for creaminess and fresh cilantro for a bright flavor. These optional ingredients really elevate the dish. For spices, ground cumin and smoked paprika enhance the chorizo's flavor. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. Taste as you go to find the right balance. Check out the Full Recipe for all the detailed steps and tips! To start, I heat a large pot over medium heat. I add one tablespoon of olive oil and let it warm. Next, I add 8 ounces of crumbled chorizo. I cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes. The goal is to get it browned and crispy. Once it’s ready, I use a slotted spoon to move the chorizo to a plate. I leave the tasty fat in the pot for flavor. Now it's time for the veggies. I recommend using a medium onion, three cloves of minced garlic, and one diced bell pepper. I like to mix colors for fun. I add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. I sauté them for about 5 minutes. I stir often until they become soft and fragrant. This step builds a great base for the soup. I now mix the cooked chorizo back into the pot. I add one can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, four cups of chicken broth, one can of drained black beans, and one cup of corn. I stir in one teaspoon each of ground cumin and smoked paprika. I mix everything well to combine. This step is key for flavor. Next, I bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, I reduce the heat to low. I let it simmer uncovered for about 15 to 20 minutes. I stir occasionally to keep it from sticking. Letting it simmer allows all the flavors to meld nicely. After simmering, I taste the soup. I adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to my liking. This final step is important. It ensures that every bowl bursts with flavor right before serving. For a great presentation, I ladle the soup into bowls. I sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top. This adds color and freshness. I also like to serve warm crusty bread or tortilla chips on the side. It makes for a perfect dip! For extra creaminess, I add avocado slices on top for those who enjoy it. You can find the full recipe for this spicy delight above. To make your Spicy Chorizo Soup milder, remove the seeds from the bell pepper. You can also omit the diced tomatoes with green chilies. Instead, use plain diced tomatoes. If you want more heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. For spice reduction, try adding a dollop of sour cream or yogurt. This will cool down the heat and add creaminess. You can boost the soup’s flavor by adding herbs like fresh cilantro or parsley. A squeeze of lime juice at the end brightens the taste. You can also mix in spices like oregano or thyme. If you want more protein, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp. For extra veggies, toss in some spinach or zucchini. These additions make the soup more colorful and nutritious. You can use a Dutch oven for even heat distribution. A slow cooker is great for making the soup in advance. Just let it simmer on low for hours. If you prefer a quicker method, an Instant Pot works wonders too. It cuts down on cooking time while still infusing flavors. For best results, let the soup sit for a bit. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully before serving. {{image_4}} You can make a tasty vegetarian version of this soup. Instead of chorizo, use a plant-based sausage or mushrooms. Both options add great flavor and texture. For added depth, mix in smoked paprika, chipotle powder, or even a dash of liquid smoke. These spices will give your soup that smoky taste without meat. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also enhance the flavors. If you want to change up the beans, you can use pinto beans or chickpeas. They both work well and add protein. For corn, fresh corn is the best, but frozen or canned works too. Seasonal veggies, like zucchini or bell peppers, can also add freshness. Just chop them and toss them in when cooking the onions. To make sure your soup is gluten-free, check all labels on your ingredients. Some broths may contain gluten. You can use gluten-free chicken broth instead. If your soup needs thickening, try using cornstarch or a gluten-free flour. This way, your soup stays hearty and delicious without any gluten. To keep your Spicy Chorizo Soup fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Let the soup cool before sealing. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. After that, the flavors may fade. When it’s time to enjoy your soup again, reheat it gently. You can use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, heat it over medium heat, stirring often. For the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between. If the soup thickens, add a splash of broth to loosen it up. To freeze the soup, let it cool completely first. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some room for expansion as it freezes. The soup can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, just like before. You can store Spicy Chorizo Soup in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. In the freezer, it can last for about 2 to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool before you store it. Yes, you can prepare this soup a day or two ahead. To do this, make the soup as usual, then cool it down. Store it in the fridge in a sealed container. When you are ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This soup often tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld. You can serve Spicy Chorizo Soup with warm crusty bread or tortilla chips. A side salad also pairs well. If you want something extra, try avocado slices or fresh cilantro on top. These add freshness and flavor. Yes, you can use other types of sausage. Italian sausage or turkey sausage are great alternatives. They will change the flavor a bit but still make a tasty soup. Just choose a sausage you enjoy. Spicy Chorizo Soup can be healthy if you make smart choices. It has protein from the chorizo and fiber from the beans and corn. To make it even healthier, you can add more veggies. Just watch the amount of salt and oil you use. Overall, it is a filling and nutritious meal. For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. This blog post explored making a tasty Spicy Chorizo Soup. We covered the key ingredients, like chorizo and tomatoes, and the optional toppings. Each cooking step helps build great flavor. I shared tips for adjusting spice levels and even variations for different diets. You can store and freeze leftovers easily too. Give this recipe a try. It’s simple and packed with flavor! You can enjoy it any time. Follow the steps, and you will create a great dish that everyone loves.](https://fastmealmate.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/b127f9eb-a221-480e-915b-a87f661d3241-768x768.webp)