chicken crock pot recipe
The Best chicken crock pot recipe
What I appreciate most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can throw it together in the morning for a weeknight dinner, or let it simmer all day when you’ve got company coming over. It’s also packed with protein and veggies, so I feel good about serving it to my family. Plus, the leftovers reheat well, which means less time spent in the kitchen the next day. If you’re looking for a no-fuss meal that everyone will actually eat, this is the one to try.
Creamy Garlic Crock Pot Chicken
A rich and flavorful slow-cooked chicken dish with creamy garlic sauce, perfect for a comforting family meal. The tender chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
🥘Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock pot. -
2
In a mixing bowl, whisk together chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika until smooth. -
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 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork. -
5
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crock pot using two forks. Stir to combine with the sauce. -
6
Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley. -
7
Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
🔧Equipment
- 6-quart slow cooker (crock pot)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Creamy Garlic Crock Pot Chicken Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Crock Pot Chicken
1. How long does it take to cook chicken in a crock pot?
Cooking time for chicken in a crock pot depends on the cut and size. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts typically take 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low. Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks may need 4-5 hours on high or 7-8 hours on low. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
2. Can I put frozen chicken in the crock pot?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken in a crock pot, but it’s not recommended for safety reasons. If using frozen chicken, add at least 1-2 extra hours on low or 30-60 minutes on high to ensure thorough cooking. For best results, thaw chicken in the fridge overnight before adding it to the crock pot.
3. What liquids should I use in a chicken crock pot recipe?
Common liquids include chicken broth, water, or a mix of broth and sauce (like BBQ, teriyaki, or salsa). Aim for ½ to 1 cup of liquid—just enough to prevent drying but not so much that it dilutes flavors. Avoid adding too much, as chicken releases its own juices while cooking.
4. How do I keep chicken from drying out in the crock pot?
To prevent dry chicken:
– Don’t overcook—stick to the recommended times.
– Use bone-in cuts (thighs or drumsticks) for juicier results.
– Add sauce or broth to keep moisture in.
– Avoid lifting the lid while cooking, as heat escapes.
– Shred or slice chicken just before serving to retain juices.
5. Can I add vegetables to the crock pot with the chicken?
Absolutely! Hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, onions, celery, or bell peppers work well. Add them at the beginning if they’re dense (like potatoes) or in the last 1-2 hours if they’re tender (like zucchini or spinach) to prevent mushiness. For extra flavor, toss veggies in oil and seasonings before adding.
