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Introduction
A comforting and deliciously creamy Crockpot Garlic Chicken dish that is perfect for any night of the week. The rich garlic flavor and tender chicken make it a family favorite that comes together with ease.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
800g boneless, skinless chicken breasts
200ml chicken broth
150g cream cheese, softened
100ml heavy cream
50g parmesan cheese, grated
40g garlic cloves, minced (about 8 cloves)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
100g baby spinach
30g fresh parsley, chopped
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
To prepare this dish, start by searing the seasoned chicken breasts in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown. Next, sauté the minced garlic before combining it with chicken broth, softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and grated parmesan in your Crockpot. Add the seared chicken, cover, and cook until tender. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in fresh baby spinach to allow it to wilt. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your meal with pasta, rice, or fresh bread. Come and experience a creamy, flavorful journey that your family will rave about!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In the Crockpot, combine chicken broth, cream cheese, heavy cream, grated parmesan, sautéed garlic, and thyme. Stir well to create a creamy mixture.
Step 4: Add Chicken to Crockpot
Add the seared chicken breasts to the Crockpot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the creamy mixture.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 6: Add Spinach
About 30 minutes before serving, add baby spinach to the Crockpot, stir, and allow to wilt into the sauce.
Step 7: Serve
Once done, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy with pasta, rice, or fresh bread.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Alternatives
You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs if you prefer a different cut of meat.
Note 2: Dietary Adjustments
For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and heavy cream.
Note 3: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side salad.
Storage Instructions
To ensure the best quality and safety, store leftover Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you would like to keep it longer, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through. If the sauce has thickened upon refrigeration, add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to restore the desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it over cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving it on a bed of steamed vegetables or alongside a fresh green salad. You can also enjoy it with crusty bread for dipping into the rich sauce or use it as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
Calories: 550
Total Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 155mg
Sodium: 560mg
Total Carbohydrates: 7g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 50g
Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
Ingredient Substitutions
– Chicken Breasts: You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
– Cream Cheese: Greek yogurt or cottage cheese can be used for a lighter option, but may alter the creaminess.
– Heavy Cream: Substitute with half-and-half or canned coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
– Parmesan Cheese: Grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can provide a similar flavor for those looking for alternatives.
– Garlic: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch; 1 teaspoon of garlic powder equals about 3 cloves of fresh garlic.
– Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard are great substitutes if spinach is not available.
– Fresh Parsley: Cilantro or basil can be used for a different flavor profile.
Cook Techniques
1. Searing Chicken
Searing the chicken breasts in olive oil helps develop a rich flavor and a golden-brown crust, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
2. Sautéing Garlic
Sautéing minced garlic in the skillet before mixing it with the other ingredients releases its aromatic oils, creating a more intense garlic flavor.
3. Slow Cooking
Using a Crockpot allows the chicken to cook slowly, making it tender and juicy while allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
4. Layering Ingredients
Adding the seared chicken into the creamy mixture ensures it absorbs the flavors and remains moist during cooking.
5. Adding Spinach
Incorporating baby spinach towards the end of the cooking process helps preserve its vibrant color and nutrients, giving the dish a fresh, healthy element.
6. Finishing Touches
Sprinkling fresh parsley on top before serving not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile with its fresh taste.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, you may need to increase the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I substitute cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a different flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter as a substitute for heavy cream, but the dish may be less rich.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli. Just add them to the Crockpot at the same time as the chicken.
What should I serve with this dish?
This creamy garlic chicken pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and rich, flavorful sauce with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe not only satisfies the whole family but also allows for easy customization. Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and enjoy the comforting taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Creamy Garlic Chicken with Mushrooms
Enhance the recipe by adding sliced mushrooms to the Crockpot along with the chicken. The mushrooms will absorb the creamy sauce and add an earthy flavor that complements the garlic.
Garlic Chicken Alfredo
For a different twist, serve the creamy garlic chicken over fettuccine or other pasta, transforming it into a luscious garlic chicken Alfredo that is sure to impress.
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Before searing the chicken, slice it open and fill it with a mixture of spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella. This adds extra flavor and makes for a delightful presentation.
Lemon Herb Garlic Chicken
Incorporate fresh lemon juice and zest along with fresh herbs such as rosemary or basil for a bright, zesty flavor that elevates the creamy garlic chicken to a new level.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Casserole
After cooking, mix the creamy garlic chicken with cooked rice or quinoa, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and bake until bubbly for a hearty casserole.
Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken Tacos
Use the creamy garlic chicken as a filling for soft or hard shell tacos. Top with diced tomatoes, lettuce, and avocado for a fun and interactive meal.
