This tasty 4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken is a breeze to make! Just throw in chicken, garlic, parmesan, and a little seasoning, and let the slow cooker work its magic.
Honestly, it’s like a hug in a bowl! I love serving it over pasta or rice to soak up the garlic goodness. Quick prep means more time to enjoy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe as they stay tender in the crockpot. If you’re looking for alternatives, boneless thighs can be a tasty choice, offering more flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Dressing: This adds a punch of flavor. If you can’t find it or prefer homemade, mix olive oil, minced garlic, and grated parmesan for a quick alternative. Use your favorite dressing as a base for different tastes!
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives a creamy texture. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese. Both will work, but the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly.
Penne Pasta: Although penne is perfect here, any short pasta like fusilli or rotini can be swapped. If you want a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free penne or other alternatives available at your local store.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Tender in the Crockpot?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot is great for getting it tender and juicy. To ensure your chicken comes out perfectly, follow these tips:
- Use the right amount of liquid; it helps the chicken cook evenly. Here, 2 cups of chicken broth or water keeps everything moist.
- Shred the chicken after cooking by using two forks. This allows it to absorb more of the sauce, enhancing the flavor.
- Avoid cooking on high too long, as chicken can dry out. Opt for low heat for a longer time to get tender, juicy results.
4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- 1 cup garlic parmesan dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups penne pasta (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
- Optional: grated parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take approximately 10 minutes to prepare, followed by 4-6 hours of cooking on low (or 2-3 hours on high) in the crockpot. It’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a weekend meal with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the base of your meal, so make sure they’re spread out evenly.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the garlic parmesan dressing with the softened cream cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will create a rich, flavorful sauce that you’ll pour over the chicken.
3. Add Pasta and Liquids:
Next, add the uncooked penne pasta and the chicken broth (or water) into the crockpot. Gently stir everything together to ensure that the pasta is submerged in the liquid. This is important for properly cooking the pasta!
4. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the crockpot with its lid. Cook on low for about 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fully cooked and tender—easy to shred!
5. Shred and Combine:
Once the cooking time is up, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Give everything a good stir to mix the shredded chicken with the creamy sauce and pasta. It’s going to look so good!
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a touch of color and freshness. Serve the dish warm with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese, and enjoy your delicious and creamy garlic parm chicken!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne pasta works great, you can substitute it with other short pasta shapes like fusilli or rotini. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the pasta type, so check for doneness during the last hour of cooking.
What if I Don’t Have Garlic Parmesan Dressing?
No worries! You can easily make a quick substitute by mixing together 1 cup of ranch dressing, 2-3 minced garlic cloves, and ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese. This will give you a similar flavor profile for your dish.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers! Store them in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems too thick.
How to Ensure the Chicken Stays Moist?
To keep the chicken tender and juicy, make sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid (dressing and broth) throughout the cooking process. If you notice it getting dry, add a little more broth or water. Shredding the chicken back into the sauce also helps retain moisture!
