I love making this Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken when I want a comforting, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the hard work for me, leaving me with tender, juicy chicken coated in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. It’s one of those recipes I rely on when I want something satisfying and simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how effortless this recipe feels. I just add everything to the crockpot, set it, and let it cook while I focus on other things. The garlic infuses beautifully into the sauce, creating deep flavor with minimal effort.

I also enjoy how versatile it is. I can serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, cauliflower mash, or even zucchini noodles. The creamy sauce makes everything taste better, and I always appreciate having leftovers for the next day.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken breasts
salt
black pepper
garlic powder
paprika
minced garlic
chicken broth
heavy cream
cream cheese, softened
grated parmesan cheese
italian seasoning
butter
fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.
I place the seasoned chicken into the crockpot.
In a bowl, I whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, italian seasoning, and grated parmesan cheese.
I pour the mixture over the chicken, then add small pieces of cream cheese and butter on top.
I cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Once cooked, I gently stir the sauce to combine everything smoothly. If I want a thicker sauce, I let it cook uncovered for an additional 20–30 minutes.
I garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe typically serves 4 people.

Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cook time: 3–6 hours (depending on setting)
Total time: Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition. Mushrooms also work beautifully in this creamy garlic sauce.

If I want a lighter version, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For a little heat, I sprinkle in red pepper flakes. I can also swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for an even juicier result.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen nicely overnight.

When reheating, I warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, I add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it. I can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each round.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

I prefer thawing the chicken first for even cooking. If I use frozen chicken, I make sure to extend the cooking time and ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Since the sauce is cream-based, replacing the dairy changes the texture significantly. I can experiment with coconut cream, but the flavor will be slightly different.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

If I want a thicker sauce, I let it cook uncovered near the end. I can also mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it in, then cook until thickened.

What sides go best with this dish?

I enjoy serving it over mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or cauliflower mash. Steamed vegetables or a simple green salad pair nicely as well.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes assemble everything in the crockpot insert the night before and store it in the refrigerator. The next day, I simply place it in the cooker and start cooking.

Conclusion

I always come back to this Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken because it delivers big flavor with very little effort. The chicken turns out tender every time, and the creamy garlic sauce makes it feel like a special meal even on an ordinary day. It’s a comforting recipe I truly enjoy making again and again.

Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken

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Tender slow-cooked chicken breasts simmered in a rich, creamy garlic parmesan sauce, making this crockpot meal comforting, flavorful, and effortlessly satisfying.

Author: Mayaa
Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Cook Time: 3–6 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Place the seasoned chicken into the crockpot in a single layer.
In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and grated parmesan cheese.
Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken.
Add the cubed cream cheese and small pieces of butter on top.
Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Stir the sauce gently until smooth and well combined. For a thicker sauce, cook uncovered for an additional 20–30 minutes.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Add fresh spinach during the last 30 minutes for extra color and nutrition.
Sliced mushrooms pair well with the creamy garlic sauce.
Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier result.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in short microwave intervals, adding broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.