Embrace the aromatic flavors of Italian cuisine with this indulgent Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Italian Chicken recipe. Tender chicken breasts infused with the richness of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasonings, all cooked to perfection in a creamy sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or seeking a comforting meal for the family, this dish promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, signaling the arrival of a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the sauce over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a serving platter. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Adding Vegetables: Add vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the slow cooker along with the chicken for added flavor and nutrition.
- Creamy Variation: For an even creamier sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with cream cheese or mascarpone cheese.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in chicken may require slightly longer cooking.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and season the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Combine and cook in the slow cooker as directed when you’re ready to enjoy.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version: For a keto-friendly version, omit the flour and use xanthan gum or a low-carb thickener to thicken the sauce. Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta to keep it low in carbs.
Low-Carb Version: To reduce the carb content, omit the flour and substitute heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk. Serve the chicken over a bed of mixed greens or steamed vegetables for a low-carb meal option.
Indulge in the savory goodness of Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Italian Chicken, a dish that embodies comfort and flavor in every bite. Whether served over pasta or paired with your favorite vegetables, this creamy and aromatic chicken recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With simple ingredients and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious Italian-inspired dish and savor the satisfaction of a meal well enjoyed.
Experience the savory goodness of Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Italian Chicken, a dish that embodies comfort and flavor in every bite. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious Italian-inspired dish and savor the satisfaction of a meal well enjoyed.
