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Looking for a tasty, easy dinner? Try my Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken! This dish features tender chicken thighs cooked low and slow in a flavorful broth, packed with garlic and Parmesan cheese. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a meal everyone loves. Dive into this recipe and discover how simple it is to create a warm, comforting dinner that doesn’t take much time to prepare!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days.
- Flavorful Dish: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a rich, savory flavor that everyone loves.
- Versatile Serving Options: You can serve this chicken over rice, pasta, or even in sandwiches, making it a flexible meal choice.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is great for meal prepping, as it reheats well and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
When I make Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken, I gather the best ingredients for a tasty meal. I start with two pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. These thighs stay juicy and tender during cooking.
Next, I use one cup of chicken broth. This broth adds flavor and moisture. Then, I measure out half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This cheese brings a rich, savory taste.
I always include four cloves of minced garlic. Garlic gives the dish a wonderful aroma. I add one teaspoon each of Italian seasoning and paprika. These spices create a warm, inviting note.
For seasoning, I use half a teaspoon of black pepper and salt to taste. These enhance all the flavors in the dish. Finally, I need one tablespoon of olive oil. This oil helps cook the garlic and adds a hint of richness.
To finish, I chop fresh parsley for garnish. It adds color and freshness to the meal. Having all these ingredients ready makes cooking easy and fun.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
To start, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. This will help give your chicken a nice flavor. Next, add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the pan. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it smells great. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
Mixing the Sauce
In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of chicken broth with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Then, add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir this mixture well until it combines nicely. This sauce will bring rich flavors to your chicken.
Cooking the Chicken
Now, place your 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the crockpot. Pour the garlic mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the crockpot with its lid. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked when done.
Shredding and Serving
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Mix it well with the sauce to ensure it is fully coated. Now it’s time to serve! You can serve the chicken hot over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. Garnish it with fresh chopped parsley for color and a fresh taste. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
To ensure tender chicken, start with good-quality chicken thighs. They stay moist during cooking. Searing the chicken in olive oil adds flavor and locks in juices. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The chicken should reach 165°F for safe eating.
For flavor enhancement, use fresh garlic. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also add depth. You can mix in a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Adding a little more Parmesan cheese boosts the cheesy goodness too.
Cooking Methods
You can choose between a slow cooker or stovetop. The slow cooker is great for a hands-off meal. It cooks low and slow, making the chicken very tender. If you’re short on time, the stovetop method works too. Just simmer the chicken and sauce in a pot until cooked.
For crockpots, set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Each crockpot may cook at different speeds. Always check your chicken’s temperature for best results.
Presentation Tips
Serving ideas include fluffy rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. Lay the shredded chicken on these bases and drizzle the sauce over it. This adds extra flavor and makes it look great.
For garnishing, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. You can also add more grated Parmesan. This not only makes it appealing but adds freshness. A colorful plate makes the dish more inviting and fun.
Pro Tips
- Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to the dish compared to boneless cuts.
- Marinate Ahead: For an extra boost of flavor, marinate the chicken in the garlic and broth mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt or pepper to suit your preference.
- Leftover Magic: Shredded chicken is versatile! Use leftovers in tacos, salads, or sandwiches for a quick meal.

Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can change a few ingredients to suit your taste.
– Alternative proteins: You can use chicken breast or turkey instead of thighs. Both options work well and still taste great.
– Dairy-free options: If you want a dairy-free dish, try using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. You can also use dairy-free cheese for a similar taste.
Flavor Enhancements
Add a twist to your dish by including more flavors.
– Adding vegetables: Toss in some fresh spinach or diced bell peppers. They add color and nutrition to the meal.
– Spicy variations: If you like heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce. This gives the chicken a nice kick.
Different Cuisines
You can take your dish global with these ideas.
– Mediterranean twist: Mix in olives and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flavor. This gives a new taste and adds texture.
– Asian-inspired flavors: Use soy sauce and ginger instead of Italian seasoning. This creates a new flavor profile that is both unique and tasty.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken fresh, follow these steps:
– Refrigeration: Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to four days. This keeps them safe to eat and tasty. Make sure to let the chicken cool down before sealing it.
– Freezing Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the chicken. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as you can. You can freeze the chicken for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
When reheating, you want to keep the flavors and texture right:
– Safe Reheating Methods: You can reheat the chicken in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts and stir in between. This helps heat evenly.
– Maintaining Flavor and Texture: Add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating. This keeps the chicken moist. Avoid overheating, as it can make the chicken dry.
Shelf Life
Knowing how long the dish lasts is important:
– Fridge Life: In the fridge, Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken lasts about four days. After that, it’s best to toss it to avoid food safety issues.
– Identifying Spoilage Signs: Look for changes in color or smell. If the chicken smells sour or looks off, it’s time to let it go. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety.
FAQs
Common Questions
How do I ensure my chicken is cooked properly?
To check if your chicken is cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part. The meat should be white and juices should run clear.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and let it cool. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it gently before serving.
What sides pair well with Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken?
This chicken goes well with many sides. Try serving it with:
– Fluffy rice
– Pasta
– Mashed potatoes
– Steamed vegetables
– Garlic bread
Nutritional Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken has about 300 calories.
Breakdown of key nutritional values
– Protein: 28g
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 4g
– Fiber: 0g
– Sugars: 1g
Recipe Adjustments
How can I reduce fat content?
To cut fat, use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. You can also reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, you can double the recipe. Just ensure your crockpot is big enough. Increase the cooking time slightly if needed.
This blog post covered a simple yet tasty Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken recipe. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for cooking and serving. We discussed various ways to enhance flavor and adapt the recipe. Storing leftovers and reheating safely was also shared.
In closing, this dish offers a great mix of flavor and ease. Try making it your own with the many options available. Enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effor
Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken
A delicious and easy crockpot chicken recipe with garlic and Parmesan cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 6 hours hrs
Total Time 7 hours hrs
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- to taste salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Begin by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
In a bowl, mix together the chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir until combined.
Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the garlic mixture over them. Ensure the chicken is well coated with the sauce.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the sauce in the crockpot to ensure it’s well coated.
Serve the chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes with extra Parmesan and parsley.
Keyword chicken, crockpot, garlic, Parmesan
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