Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy meal that requires minimal effort? Then look no further! This Chicken Crockpot Recipe with Parmesan Garlic Sauce is your answer. It's the perfect blend of comfort food and healthy eating, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend evenings. Get ready to savor the tender, juicy chicken drenched in a creamy, garlicky parmesan sauce – all made effortlessly in your slow cooker! This recipe is a winner for easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Slow cooking magic:
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
- Pour the soup mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
Finishing touch:
- Once the chicken is cooked, shred it directly in the slow cooker using two forks.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it's melted and the sauce is creamy and luscious.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Chicken Crockpot Recipe:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space for the chicken to cook evenly. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices according to your preference.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the soup mixture for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon, along with 1 tablespoon of dried Italian herbs, to the soup mixture for a bright and flavorful twist.
- Creamy Tomato Chicken: Substitute cream of tomato soup for cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This chicken crockpot recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes and best recipes achieved with homemade cooking. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. The ease and convenience make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!