Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot: Rich, Cozy, and Easy

Some days call for food that feels comforting without needing much effort. This Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot is one of those recipes I lean on when I want something rich and cozy waiting for me at dinner time.

You season the chicken, add a few simple ingredients, and let the crockpot handle the rest. By the end of the day, the chicken turns incredibly tender and the garlic cream sauce becomes thick, silky, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of meal that feels special but fits perfectly into a busy schedule.

Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot with rich garlic sauce

Why I Love This Recipe

What I love most about Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot is how simple it feels while still tasting rich and comforting. You don’t need a long ingredient list or extra steps to get that creamy, garlicky sauce everyone loves.

The chicken turns incredibly tender as it cooks, and the sauce thickens into something silky and smooth by the end. It’s one of those meals that feels cozy and homemade, yet it fits perfectly into a busy day. Every time I make it, it reminds me why slow cooker dinners are such a win.

Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot Ingredients

Ingredients needed for Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot

This Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot uses simple, familiar ingredients that come together into a rich and comforting sauce. Everything cooks low and slow, letting the garlic and cream create that smooth, silky texture.

Ingredient Amount
Boneless skinless chicken breasts 4
Heavy cream 1 cup
Chicken broth ½ cup
Freshly grated parmesan cheese ½ cup
Butter, cut into pieces 4 tbsp
Garlic cloves, minced 4–5
Garlic powder 1 tsp
Italian seasoning 1 tsp
Black pepper ½ tsp
Salt ½ tsp
Chopped parsley (optional) 1 tbsp

Each ingredient plays a role in building that creamy garlic sauce. The butter and cream bring richness, the parmesan adds depth, and the garlic ties everything together into a cozy, satisfying dish.

Step-by-Step Preparation for Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot

Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot cooking low and slow

This Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot comes together with just a few easy steps. Once everything is in, the slow cooker takes care of the rest.

1. Prepare the crockpot.
Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot to prevent sticking. Lay the chicken breasts flat in a single layer.

2. Season the chicken.
Sprinkle the chicken evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning so every piece is well coated.

3. Add garlic and broth.
Scatter the minced garlic over the chicken. Place the butter pieces on top, then pour in the chicken broth around the sides.

4. Slow cook until tender.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours, until the chicken is very tender and cooked through.

5. Finish with cream and cheese.
Stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Cover again and cook for 20 to 30 minutes, until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.

6. Serve with sauce.
Spoon the rich garlic sauce over the chicken before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

The result is tender chicken swimming in a silky garlic cream sauce that tastes like pure comfort. If you enjoy creamy slow cooker meals like this, you may also love Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Chicken, which brings a similar rich flavor with a cheesy twist.

Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot

Garlic butter sauce simmering with chicken in the crockpot

This Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot is already easy, but a few thoughtful tips can help you get the best texture and flavor every time. Small details make a big difference with creamy slow cooker recipes.

1. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Freshly minced garlic gives the sauce a bold, rich taste that really stands out. Jarred garlic works in a pinch, but fresh cloves create a deeper garlic flavor as the chicken cooks.

2. Keep the chicken breasts whole while cooking.
Leaving the chicken whole helps it stay moist and tender during the long cook time. Whole pieces also absorb the garlic butter flavor better than shredded chicken at this stage.

3. Add the cream and cheese at the end.
Heavy cream and parmesan should always go in near the end of cooking. This keeps the sauce smooth and prevents it from separating or becoming grainy.

4. Grate the parmesan fresh.
Freshly grated parmesan melts evenly into the sauce and thickens it naturally. Pre-grated cheese does not blend as smoothly and can affect the final texture.

5. Taste and adjust before serving.
Once the sauce thickens, give it a quick taste. Add a pinch of salt or pepper if needed. Slow cookers vary, so a final seasoning check helps balance the flavors.

Serving Ideas for Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot

Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot served over mashed potatoes

This Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot pairs well with simple sides that soak up the rich garlic sauce. These serving ideas help turn it into a complete and satisfying meal.

1. Serve over mashed potatoes.
Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for holding the garlic sauce. Every bite feels rich, comforting, and filling.

2. Pair with pasta or rice.
Egg noodles, fettuccine, or white rice work beautifully. They absorb the sauce and make this dish feel like a restaurant-style dinner at home.

3. Add a vegetable for balance.
Steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted asparagus add color and freshness. A vegetable side helps balance the richness of the sauce.

4. Make it bread-friendly.
Serve with warm rolls or crusty bread to scoop up the extra sauce. It is one of the best parts of the dish.

5. Finish with a simple garnish.
A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a fresh look and a light contrast to the creamy sauce right before serving.

For another cozy slow cooker meal with a creamy sauce, try Marry Me Chicken in the Crockpot, a reader-favorite that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Storing and Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot

Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot stored for leftovers

This Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot stores very well, which makes it a great option for leftovers or easy meal prep. The sauce stays rich and flavorful, and the chicken remains tender when reheated properly.

Storing

Let the chicken cool completely before storing. Transfer the chicken and sauce into airtight containers and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The sauce will thicken as it chills, which is normal for cream-based recipes.

For longer storage, place individual portions into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat on the stove, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir gently and add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as it warms. Heat until fully warmed through.

For the microwave, reheat in a covered dish in short intervals, stirring the sauce between each round. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the sauce to lose its smooth texture.

This dish reheats beautifully and tastes just as comforting the next day. If you enjoy creamy slow cooker meals that hold up well as leftovers, you may also like Marry Me Chicken in the Crockpot, which has a similar rich and cozy feel.

FAQs About Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work very well in this recipe. They stay juicy and tender and absorb the creamy garlic sauce beautifully.

Will the cream curdle in the slow cooker?

No, as long as you add the heavy cream near the end of cooking. Stirring it in during the final 20 to 30 minutes keeps the sauce smooth and creamy.

How do I thicken the sauce if it seems thin?

The sauce thickens naturally as it cooks with the parmesan. If needed, let it cook uncovered for a few extra minutes or add a small cornstarch slurry.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is great for making ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving to keep the sauce smooth.

What sides go best with creamy garlic chicken?

Mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables all pair well. Bread is also great for soaking up the extra sauce.

If you enjoy rich, creamy flavors like this, you might also love my Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Chicken, which adds melted cheese to a similar garlic-forward sauce for an extra comforting dinner.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot is one of those recipes that delivers comfort with very little effort. The chicken turns tender, the sauce becomes rich and silky, and the garlic flavor comes through perfectly.

It’s an ideal meal for busy days, family dinners, or anytime you want something cozy and homemade waiting for you at the end of the day. Once you try it, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your slow cooker rotation.

If you enjoy creamy chicken dinners like this, you may also love Slow Cooker Smothered Chicken, which brings another comforting twist to classic flavors.

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Creamy Garlic Chicken in The Crockpot Recipe

Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot


  • Author: Jake Miller
  • Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Creamy Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot is rich, cozy, and incredibly easy to make. Tender chicken cooks low and slow in a silky garlic parmesan sauce that melts in your mouth.


Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup chicken broth

½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

4 tbsp butter, cut into pieces

45 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp Italian seasoning

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp salt

1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)


Instructions

1. Lightly grease the crockpot and lay the chicken breasts flat in the bottom.

2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

3. Add the butter pieces and minced garlic over the chicken.

4. Pour in the chicken broth around the sides.

5. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours until the chicken is very tender.

6. Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese.

7. Cover again and cook for another 20–30 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

8. Spoon the garlic cream sauce over the chicken before serving.

Notes

To store: Let cool completely, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream.

Serving ideas: Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice with a side of vegetables.

Tips: Add the cream and cheese at the end to keep the sauce smooth and silky.

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 6 hrs
  • Category: Dinner, Slow Cooker, Chicken
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
  • Calories: 430
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 31g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 145mg

Keywords: creamy garlic chicken in the crockpot, slow cooker garlic chicken, creamy chicken crockpot recipe, easy slow cooker chicken, garlic parmesan chicken

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