Garlic Parmesan Bliss Chicken

$- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup chicken broth - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup heavy cream - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) The chicken breasts provide a lean protein base. They soak up flavors well. Chicken broth adds depth and moisture to the dish. Heavy cream gives the sauce a rich, creamy texture. Grated Parmesan cheese not only gives flavor but also thickens the sauce. Garlic brings a bold, savory taste. Italian seasoning adds a blend of herbs that enhance the overall flavor. Salt and pepper bring out all the other tastes. If you do not have chicken breasts, you can use thighs or drumsticks. These will add a different texture. Vegetable broth can replace chicken broth for a vegetarian option. If you want a lighter dish, use low-fat cream or milk instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can stand in for Parmesan cheese if you're avoiding dairy. You can also swap out the Italian seasoning for your favorite herbs, like thyme or basil. {{ingredient_image_1}} Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Make sure to cover both sides. Next, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, sear the chicken breasts for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. This will give them a nice golden color and add flavor. If you're in a hurry, you can skip this step, but I recommend it for the best taste. After searing, transfer the chicken to the crockpot. In a small bowl, mix together the chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is mostly dissolved. Pour this garlic Parmesan mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the crockpot with the lid. Set your crockpot to low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. As the chicken cooks, it will absorb all the flavors. When the cooking time is up, check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should be 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat. Once done, take the chicken out and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Drizzle some of the sauce from the crockpot over the chicken for extra flavor. Finish by garnishing with fresh chopped parsley. Searing chicken helps lock in moisture and flavor. To get a good sear, the skillet must be hot. When you place the chicken in, it should sizzle. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. If needed, sear in batches. Remember to flip the chicken only once to achieve a perfect crust. Cooking times might vary based on your crockpot model and chicken size. For low heat, 4 to 6 hours works best. On high, aim for 2 to 3 hours. Always use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. It is crucial to reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. If you have thicker chicken breasts, consider extending the cooking time slightly. To keep your chicken juicy, follow a few tips. First, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook evenly and stay moist. Season the chicken well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This adds flavor and helps retain moisture. Searing the chicken briefly in olive oil also helps. This step creates a nice crust that locks in juices. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but I recommend it for extra flavor. Always check the chicken's internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) when done. This ensures it’s cooked without drying out. Flavor starts with your ingredients. Use fresh garlic for a strong taste. Mix it with grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream for a rich sauce. The chicken broth adds depth and moisture. Try to let the chicken soak in the sauce for a while. This helps the flavors meld together. You can also add more Italian herbs if you want a bolder taste. Don't shy away from using fresh parsley as a garnish. It adds a pop of color and fresh flavor. For this recipe, you need a few key tools. A good skillet helps with searing the chicken. A reliable crockpot is essential for slow cooking. Look for one with a programmable timer for ease. You’ll also need measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient amounts. A meat thermometer helps ensure your chicken is safe to eat. Lastly, have a sharp knife ready for slicing the chicken before serving. Pro Tips Perfectly Seasoned Chicken: Always season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper prior to cooking for enhanced flavor. Optimal Searing: Searing the chicken before placing it in the crockpot adds a depth of flavor and a beautiful golden crust. Don't skip this step if you have the time! Cheese for Creaminess: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamier texture and better flavor than pre-grated options, which often contain anti-caking agents. Rest Before Slicing: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices before slicing, ensuring each piece is moist and flavorful. {{image_2}} You can boost nutrition by adding vegetables. Try adding chopped carrots, bell peppers, or spinach. Cut them into small pieces so they cook well. Place the veggies in the crockpot with the chicken. This adds color and flavor. The vegetables soak up the sauce, making them tasty. Want to change the flavor? Use different herbs and spices. Instead of Italian seasoning, try rosemary or thyme. For a kick, add red pepper flakes. You can also use lemon zest for a fresh taste. Mix in some paprika for a smoky flavor. Each change gives a new twist to the dish. If you need a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream. Use coconut milk or almond milk instead. For the Parmesan cheese, try a dairy-free cheese option. You can even skip the cheese if you prefer. Adjusting these ingredients keeps the dish tasty and friendly for everyone. To store your Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken, let it cool first. Place the chicken in an airtight container. Make sure to add some sauce to keep it moist. Seal tightly and store it in the fridge. This way, it can last for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently. You can use the microwave or a stovetop. If using the microwave, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short bursts, checking often to prevent drying out. If using the stovetop, warm it over low heat in a pan. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream for extra moisture. For freezing, wrap each chicken piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. Your Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Yes, you can cook this dish on high heat. Set your crockpot to high for 2-3 hours. This method cooks the chicken faster. Just be careful not to overcook it. The chicken should stay juicy and tender. To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). When it's done, the chicken will be white and opaque. If the chicken is pink or red, it needs more time. You have many tasty options to serve with this dish. Here are some ideas: - Steamed broccoli - Mashed potatoes - Rice or quinoa - A fresh garden salad - Garlic bread These sides will complement the rich flavors of the chicken well. Feel free to mix and match! This blog post covers every step to make delicious Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken. You learned about the key ingredients and how they work together. I shared tips on cooking techniques to keep your chicken juicy and flavorful. You now have options for variations that suit your taste and dietary needs. Remember, proper storage ensures your leftovers stay fresh and tasty. With these guidelines, you can make a fantastic meal that everyone will love. Enjoy cooking, and may your dishes always be full of flavor!$

Garlic Parmesan Bliss Chicken

A creamy and flavorful chicken dish cooked in a crockpot with garlic and Parmesan cheese.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 4

Total Time 4 15

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup chicken broth
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
0.25 cup heavy cream
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
to taste Salt and pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
to taste Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step adds flavor but can be skipped if you're short on time.
Transfer the seared chicken to the crockpot.
In a small bowl, combine chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is somewhat dissolved.
Pour the garlic Parmesan mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, depending on your schedule.
Once cooked, check for doneness: the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
To serve, remove the chicken from the crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. You can drizzle some of the sauce over the top for added flavor.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Searing the chicken is optional but adds more flavor.

Keyword chicken, crockpot, garlic, Parmesan