This 4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken is super easy and tasty! With just chicken, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a bit of seasoning, you’ll have a great meal ready to enjoy.
I love that I can just toss everything in the crockpot, set it, and forget it! Plus, who can resist that cheesy, garlicky goodness? It smells amazing while it cooks! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish as they become tender in the slow cooker. If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken thighs work well too! They remain juicy even if cooked a little longer.
Garlic Parmesan Dressing: Store-bought dressings save time, but you can easily make your own. Mix mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and a splash of lemon juice for a fresh taste. Use any creamy dressing you enjoy if garlic parmesan isn’t available.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds a rich, creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan cream cheese instead. I also enjoy adding a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra tanginess!
Pasta: Penne pasta holds the sauce well, but feel free to switch it up! Bowtie, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta can work wonderfully. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
How Do You Make Sure Your Chicken is Tender and Juicy in a Crockpot?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot is simple, but there are tips to keep it tender. Start by placing the chicken at the bottom – it helps to cook evenly. Use enough sauce; it creates moisture that keeps the chicken juicy. Trust your crockpot’s timing; don’t rush it!
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours for the best results; high heat can dry it out.
- Cut the cream cheese into small chunks to help it melt and combine smoothly.
- After cooking, shred the chicken gently to keep the texture nice and fluffy.
How to Make 4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup garlic parmesan dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cream cheese (8 oz), softened
- 1 cup penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and then requires cooking time of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in your crockpot. Plus, you’ll need about 10 minutes to cook the pasta just before serving. A delicious meal with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken in the Crockpot:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This is where the delicious magic will happen!
2. Add the Garlic Parmesan Dressing:
Pour the garlic parmesan dressing over the chicken. Make sure each piece is nicely coated for maximum flavor.
3. Layer the Cream Cheese:
Next, add the softened cream cheese on top of the dressing. You can cut the cream cheese into smaller chunks to help it melt more easily while cooking. This will make your sauce creamy and delightful!
4. Set the Crockpot to Cook:
Now, cover the crockpot and set it to cook. Choose low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s cooked through and tender.
5. Cook the Pasta:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente! Once cooked, drain and set it aside.
6. Shred the Chicken:
When the chicken is done, take two forks and shred it in the crockpot. Mix it well with the creamy sauce until everything is combined beautifully.
7. Mix in the Pasta:
Stir in the cooked penne pasta, making sure each piece is well coated with that luscious garlic parmesan sauce. It’s going to be delicious!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the dish warm and, if you like, garnish with fresh parsley for a nice touch. Enjoy your super creamy and flavorful garlic parmesan chicken pasta!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just fine in this recipe. They may even add more moisture and flavor. Just remember that cooking times may be slightly longer, especially if the pieces are larger, so check for doneness.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or need a dairy-free substitute, you can use Greek yogurt or cashew cream. For Greek yogurt, use the same amount, and stir it in at the end to prevent curdling. If using cashew cream, blend soaked cashews with a little water until smooth for a similar consistency to cream cheese.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much during storage.
Can I Make This Dish Without Pasta?
Yes, you can certainly skip the pasta! For a low-carb option, serve the chicken and sauce over steamed veggies like broccoli or zucchini noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a delicious and satisfying meal.
