This easy Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken is a winner! Just four simple ingredients make this dish super tasty and perfect for busy days. The garlic and parmesan blend beautifully to give it a rich flavor.
I love how effortless it is—just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic! Perfect for a cozy family dinner without all the fuss. Who’s ready for some yummy chicken? 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their tenderness. You can swap them for thighs if you prefer more flavor and juiciness, or even use frozen chicken if that’s all you have on hand—just adjust the cooking time a bit!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich, cheesy flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant, try nutritional yeast for a similar taste without the dairy. Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are also great substitutes if you want something a bit different.
Creamy Garlic Dressing: This gives the dish its wonderful garlic flavor. You can use ranch, Caesar, or a creamy garlic sauce. If you’re looking to keep it lighter, try a vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing to cut back on calories.
Pasta: Penne is my choice for this recipe because the shape holds the sauce nicely. However, you can switch it up with any pasta you have, like fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti. Just remember to adjust the cooking time for different pasta types.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly in a Crockpot?
Using a crockpot is great for getting tender chicken with minimal effort! The key is to let the chicken cook slowly so it absorbs the flavors. Here’s how to do it right:
- Layer the chicken breasts in your crockpot without overcrowding to ensure they cook evenly.
- Pour the dressing generously over the chicken. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken moist.
- Cover and set your crockpot on low for 6-7 hours. If you’re in a hurry, the high setting for 3-4 hours works too.
- Check the chicken for doneness; it should shred easily with a fork. This means it’s perfectly cooked!
How to Make 4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup creamy garlic dressing (like ranch or a garlic cream sauce)
- 1 lb penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus cooking time of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. You’ll also need about 10-15 minutes to cook the pasta before serving. So, you can set it and forget it for most of the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This is the base of your dish, so make sure they are spread out in a single layer for even cooking.
2. Add the Flavor:
Pour the creamy garlic dressing over the chicken. Make sure to coat the chicken nicely so it can absorb all those garlicky flavors as it cooks!
3. Sprinkle on the Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and dressing. This will add a delicious cheesy flavor as it melts and combines with the sauce.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender, making it perfect for shredding.
5. Cook the Pasta:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is finished cooking, take two forks and shred it right inside the crockpot. This will help to mix it well with the creamy sauce!
7. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta into the crockpot and stir everything together until the pasta is well coated with the cheesy garlic sauce and mixed with the shredded chicken.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Scoop out generous portions of the pasta and chicken mixture onto plates, and garnish with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious 4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless, and the cooking time will remain the same. Alternatively, if you have frozen chicken, just make sure to thaw it completely before starting to ensure even cooking.
What if I Don’t Have Creamy Garlic Dressing?
No worries! You can easily substitute with ranch dressing or make your own by mixing mayonnaise, minced garlic, and a splash of lemon juice. If you prefer a lighter option, try using a yogurt-based dressing to maintain a creamy texture without the heaviness.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the dish seems dry. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months—just make sure to separate into meal-sized portions before freezing!
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta. There are many great options available that cook up nicely. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package and ensure they are cooked al dente before combining with the chicken.
