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Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs: Easy Recipe

creamy crockpot garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image

These creamy crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken thighs are incredibly tender and flavorful, made with simple ingredients and minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy cold-weather dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6–8 thighs)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated from a block)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread (for serving, optional)
  • Additional grated Parmesan for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to the slow cooker.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Pour about 1/4 cup of the chicken broth into the skillet and scrape up browned bits. Simmer for 30 seconds, then pour into the slow cooker.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together remaining 3/4 cup chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Pour over the chicken in the slow cooker.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until chicken is fork-tender and reaches 165°F.
  6. Transfer chicken to a plate and tent with foil. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Slowly pour into the slow cooker, whisking constantly. Cook on high, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Return chicken to the slow cooker, spoon sauce over the top, and warm for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley and additional Parmesan. Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Notes

For best results, sear the chicken first for deeper flavor. Add cream and Parmesan at the end to prevent graininess. If sauce is too thin, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water and stir in; cook 5 more minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken, garlic parmesan chicken, slow cooker chicken thighs, creamy chicken, easy dinner, comfort food