chicken breast crock pot recipe
The Best chicken breast crock pot recipe
This recipe is also a great way to keep meals healthy without sacrificing taste. Chicken breast is lean and packed with protein, and when you cook it low and slow in the crock pot, it stays juicy instead of drying out like it can in the oven. I like to add a little broth, garlic, and herbs to keep it flavorful, but you can adjust the seasonings to whatever your family prefers. It’s perfect for meal prep too—leftovers reheat well, and the chicken shreds easily for salads, tacos, or sandwiches. Whether it’s a regular Tuesday or a lazy Sunday, this is one of those recipes I always come back to.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Crock Pot Chicken
Tender chicken breasts slow-cooked in a rich garlic parmesan sauce with herbs, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. Serve over pasta or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (for heat)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock pot. -
2
In a mixing bowl, whisk together chicken broth, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined. -
3
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crock pot, ensuring the chicken is fully coated. -
4
Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or on HIGH for 2-2.5 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). -
5
Optional: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, fresh parsley, or red pepper flakes during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added flavor. -
6
Remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred or slice it, then return it to the sauce. Stir to combine. -
7
Serve hot over cooked pasta, mashed potatoes, or with a side of steamed vegetables.
🔧Equipment
- Crock pot (slow cooker)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or tongs
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Creamy Garlic Parmesan Crock Pot Chicken Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Parmesan Crock Pot Chicken
1. How long does it take to cook chicken breast in a crock pot?
Chicken breast typically takes 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in a crock pot, depending on the size and thickness of the pieces. For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. Do I need to add liquid to the crock pot when cooking chicken breast?
Yes, adding ½ to 1 cup of liquid (such as broth, water, or sauce) helps keep the chicken moist and prevents it from drying out. You can also use marinades, salsa, or even a little olive oil for extra flavor.
3. Can I cook frozen chicken breast in a crock pot?
While it’s possible, it’s not recommended for food safety reasons. Frozen chicken breast may not cook evenly, increasing the risk of bacteria. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking for the best results.
4. How can I prevent my crock pot chicken breast from drying out?
To keep chicken breast tender, avoid overcooking—stick to the recommended time. Adding a sauce, broth, or cream-based liquid (like cream of chicken soup) also helps. Shredding the chicken after cooking and mixing it with the juices can restore moisture.
5. What seasonings work best for crock pot chicken breast?
Simple seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika work well, but you can also use:
– Italian seasoning
– Taco seasoning
– BBQ sauce
– Lemon pepper
– Ranch dressing mix
For extra flavor, sear the chicken in a pan before adding it to the crock pot.
