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Slow Cooker Parmesan Chicken - Comforting, Creamy, and Easy

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (thighs stay extra juicy, but breasts work well too)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter sauce)
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese (for extra silkiness)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a gentle kick)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
  • Cooked pasta, rice, or vegetables, for serving

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. Build the base: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and olive oil. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using.
  3. Add the chicken: Lay the seasoned chicken on top of the onions and broth mixture.
  4. Slow cook: Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or on High for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches 165°F internally.
  5. Make it creamy: Reduce the heat to Low (if not already). Stir in the heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Cover and let the cheeses melt for 10–15 minutes.
  6. Adjust thickness: If you want a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker and cook for another 10–15 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
  7. Shred or slice: You can shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker for a saucy mix, or remove and slice it, then return it to the sauce.
  8. Taste and finish: Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil.
  9. Serve: Spoon the chicken and sauce over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. Add extra Parmesan on top.