Crock Pot Creamy Chicken is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when you crave a comforting meal without the fuss. This cozy and creamy slow cooker soup perfectly captures the essence of classic chicken parmesan, making it a delightful addition to your dinner rotation. Whether you’re juggling work, kids, or just a hectic schedule, this dish allows you to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the delicious world of creamy chicken in a crock pot!
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken
This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this dish:
- It’s a simple crock pot chicken recipe that requires minimal prep time.
- The slow cooking process ensures tender chicken every time.
- It’s a family-friendly meal that even picky eaters will enjoy.
- Perfect for meal prep, this dish is great for leftovers.
- You can customize it with your favorite vegetables.
- Healthy creamy chicken crock pot meals can fit into any diet.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Creamy Chicken
Gather these items:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 to 3 cups marinara sauce (about 24 ounces)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 to 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- 3/4 to 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 to 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 1 to 1.5 cups small dry pasta (ditalini, macaroni, or small shells)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Add chicken, onion, garlic, marinara, broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, 1 teaspoon salt, and a few grinds of pepper to your slow cooker. Cover and cook on Low for 5 to 6 hours, or High for 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
- Step 2: Shred the chicken right in the pot with two forks, checking for tenderness and seasoning. Add a pinch more salt if needed.
- Step 3: Stir in the dry pasta and cook on High for 20 to 30 minutes, just until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Step 4: Turn the heat to Warm. Stir in the cream and Parmesan until smooth. Add spinach if using and let it wilt.
- Step 5: Taste and finish with more Parmesan, a squeeze of lemon if desired, and a sprinkle of red pepper for extra kick.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Crock Pot Creamy Chicken
Keep these in mind:
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a creamy chicken with vegetables in a slow cooker.
- For a thicker soup, add more cream or reduce the broth.
- Make sure to check the seasoning before serving.
Best Ways to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Chicken
Here are some delicious ways to enjoy your dish:
- Serve over cooked rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Pair with garlic bread for a comforting dinner experience.
- Top with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a gourmet touch.
How to Store and Reheat Crock Pot Creamy Chicken
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For reheating, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much. This makes it a great quick creamy chicken recipe for crock pot meals!
Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Creamy Chicken
What’s the secret to perfect Crock Pot Creamy Chicken?
The secret lies in using quality marinara sauce and allowing the chicken to cook low and slow. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a rich, creamy sauce that’s irresistible.
Can I make Crock Pot Creamy Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before serving to enjoy a comforting meal without the last-minute rush.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Crock Pot Creamy Chicken?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking. Also, avoid opening the lid too often, as this can extend cooking time and affect the final texture.
Variations of Crock Pot Creamy Chicken You Can Try
Here are a few variations to consider:
- Add sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
- Incorporate different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for diverse flavors.
- Use different pasta shapes for variety in texture.
For more delicious recipes, check out homemade tomato sauce or spaghetti with garlic and oil. You can also explore Mediterranean chickpea salad for a refreshing side dish.
PrintCrock Pot Creamy Chicken: 5 Comforting Recipes to Savor
A cozy and creamy slow cooker soup that captures the essence of classic chicken parmesan, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 to 3 cups marinara sauce (about 24 ounces)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 to 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- 3/4 to 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 to 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 1 to 1.5 cups small dry pasta (ditalini, macaroni, or small shells)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
Instructions
- Add chicken, onion, garlic, marinara, broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, 1 teaspoon salt, and a few grinds of pepper to your slow cooker. Cover and cook on Low for 5 to 6 hours, or High for 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
- Shred the chicken right in the pot with two forks, checking for tenderness and seasoning. Add a pinch more salt if needed.
- Stir in the dry pasta and cook on High for 20 to 30 minutes, just until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Turn the heat to Warm. Stir in the cream and Parmesan until smooth. Add spinach if using and let it wilt.
- Taste and finish with more Parmesan, a squeeze of lemon if desired, and a sprinkle of red pepper for extra kick.
Notes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg











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