Creamy Garlic Chicken Slow-Cooked

This creamy garlic chicken recipe made in the crockpot has become my secret weapon for busy weeknights when I need a comforting dinner that practically cooks itself. The velvety sauce infused with garlic creates a restaurant-quality meal that my family requests at least twice a month.

The first time I made this dish was during a particularly hectic week when I needed something that would cook while I was at work. Coming home to the incredible aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through the house instantly became one of my favorite cooking memories.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts provide the perfect canvas for the creamy sauce and remain tender after slow cooking
• Chicken broth forms the savory base of the sauce while adding moisture to prevent dry chicken
• Heavy cream creates that luxurious velvety texture that makes this dish so comforting
• Fresh garlic cloves offer significantly more flavor than pre-minced versions for that real garlic lover experience
• Italian seasoning blends multiple herbs in one convenient addition saving you from measuring several spices
• Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth that elevates the entire dish beyond basic creamy chicken
• Cornstarch creates the perfect thickness without making the sauce too heavy
• Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce adding nutty richness and natural saltiness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Crockpot

Layer your chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. Try not to overlap them too much to ensure even cooking. If using larger chicken breasts consider cutting them in half horizontally to promote faster more consistent cooking.

Add the Flavor Base

Pour the chicken broth over the chicken completely covering the meat. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly across the surface followed by the butter cut into small pieces. Add all seasonings distributing them evenly over the chicken. This flavor base will infuse into the meat during the long cooking process creating layers of taste.

Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot with the lid making sure it is sealed properly. Set to low for 6-7 hours for the most tender melt-in-your-mouth chicken. The low and slow approach allows the chicken fibers to break down gently while absorbing maximum flavor. If using high setting check at the 3-hour mark to prevent overcooking.

Create the Creamy Element

After the initial cooking time whisk your cornstarch and cold water together until completely smooth with no lumps. Pour this slurry directly into the crockpot followed by the heavy cream and Parmesan. Stir gently to incorporate all ingredients without breaking apart the chicken too much.

Thicken the Sauce

Return the lid and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on high. During this time the cornstarch will activate in the hot liquid creating a silky thickness. You will notice the sauce transition from watery to coating the back of a spoon. This step transforms a basic chicken dish into something truly special.

Finish and Serve

Using two forks gently shred the chicken into large pieces that will hold the sauce well. Alternatively for a more formal presentation leave the chicken breasts whole and spoon the decadent sauce over top. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor contrast.

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The heavy cream completely transforms this dish from basic slow cooker chicken to something company-worthy. I once served this at a casual dinner party with friends who kept asking for my "secret" to such a flavorful sauce. The combination of real garlic and that slow-simmered cream creates magic that cannot be rushed on the stovetop.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your sauce seems too thin after the final cooking step simply remove the chicken temporarily and set your crockpot to high with the lid off for 10-15 minutes. This rapid reduction will concentrate flavors and thicken the sauce naturally. Remember it will continue thickening as it cools so stop just before your desired consistency.

Cream occasionally separates when reheated too vigorously. When warming leftovers do so gently on medium-low heat stirring occasionally. A splash of fresh cream can also revive the sauce if needed.

For households with garlic sensitivity reducing to 3-4 cloves still provides flavor without overwhelming. The slow cooking process significantly mellows garlic's sharpness while preserving its aromatic qualities.

Make It Your Own

This recipe welcomes personalization based on your preferences. Add sautéed mushrooms during the last hour of cooking for an earthy dimension. Sun-dried tomatoes contribute a sweet-tart contrast that cuts through the richness. Baby spinach wilted in right before serving adds color nutrition and a fresh element.

Herbs can dramatically shift the profile without changing the technique. Substitute fresh thyme and a bay leaf for the Italian seasoning for a French-inspired variation. Fresh dill and lemon zest create a bright springtime version perfect with asparagus on the side.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish and often result in even more tender meat since they contain more fat. The cooking time remains the same, and many prefer thighs in slow cooker dishes specifically because they stay juicier.

→ How do I make this dish dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and omit the Parmesan cheese. You may want to add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and increase the cornstarch slightly for proper thickening.

→ Can I freeze leftovers of this creamy garlic chicken?

Yes, this dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Store in airtight containers after cooling completely. When reheating, do so gently on low heat and consider adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce needs thinning.

→ What sides pair best with creamy garlic chicken?

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For vegetables, consider steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the sauce.

→ Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot instead?

Yes! For Instant Pot preparation, use the sauté function to brown the chicken first (optional but adds flavor). Then add all ingredients except cream, cornstarch slurry, and Parmesan. Pressure cook on high for 10 minutes with a 10-minute natural release. Stir in the cream, cornstarch slurry, and cheese using the sauté function until thickened.

→ How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer an extra-thick sauce, you can increase the cornstarch slurry to 3 tablespoons each of cornstarch and water. Alternatively, after cooking, remove the chicken and reduce the sauce using the sauté function on your slow cooker (if available) or transfer to a saucepan to reduce on the stovetop.