This 4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken is so easy to make! Just toss chicken, garlic, and parmesan into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.
You’ll love how tender and flavorful this dish turns out! It practically makes itself while you relax, which means more time for Netflix, right? 😄
I enjoy serving it with pasta or rice to soak up all that garlic goodness. It’s a no-fuss meal that’s sure to impress without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they become tender and juicy in the crockpot. If you prefer dark meat, feel free to use thighs, which add even more flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Sauce: You can buy this sauce ready-made, but I love making a quick version at home with cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. If you need a dairy-free option, try a cashew cream with nutritional yeast for a similar taste.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds depth to the sauce, but vegetable broth works just as well for a lighter flavor. You can use water with some added seasoning as a substitute, though it might lack richness.
Penne Pasta: While penne is perfect for soaking up the sauce, any pasta shape like rotini or fusilli can work too. If you’re gluten-free, there are many great gluten-free pasta options available.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot can be straightforward, but timing is crucial. To make sure your chicken turns out tender and easy to shred, follow these tips:
- Place the chicken at the bottom of the crockpot—this helps it cook evenly.
- Choose low heat if you have the time; it allows the chicken to become more tender.
- Check on the chicken about 30 minutes before the cooking time ends—ensure it’s fully cooked (165°F internal temperature is ideal).
4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup garlic parmesan sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep, and then you’ll need to let it cook in the crockpot for 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. Plus, you’ll need an extra 30 minutes to cook the pasta in the last part of the cooking time. Overall, it’s a simple, hands-off meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get the Chicken Ready:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the base of your dish and will soak up all the yummy flavors!
2. Add the Sauces:
Next, pour the garlic parmesan sauce over the chicken. Then, add the chicken broth. Take a moment to stir everything gently so the chicken gets nicely covered with the sauce and broth.
3. Time to Cook:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook. If you have the time, cook it on low for 6 to 7 hours. If you’re a bit pressed for time, you can cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and super tender when it’s done.
4. Cook the Pasta:
About 30 minutes before you want to serve your meal, toss in the uncooked penne pasta directly into the crockpot. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the delicious sauce. Stir everything gently to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
5. Finish Cooking:
Continue cooking on high for another 30 minutes, just until the pasta is perfectly al dente. This should give your dish that perfect texture!
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot. This will help mix things up and let the flavors blend together. You can season with a bit of salt and pepper to your taste at this point.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta is ready to serve! Scoop it into bowls, garnish with some fresh chopped parsley, and enjoy your delicious, easy dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just increase the cooking time by an hour on low or 30 minutes on high to ensure they are thoroughly cooked. It’s best to check the internal temperature to make sure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Garlic Parmesan Sauce?
If you don’t have garlic parmesan sauce, a mix of garlic powder, grated parmesan cheese, and a splash of heavy cream can create a similar flavor. Combine 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of parmesan, and 2-3 cloves minced garlic for a homemade version!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken and pasta combination for up to 3 months. Just defrost it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can swap in other pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape you choose, cooking until it’s al dente according to package instructions.
