If you’ve been searching for a garlic parm chicken crockpot recipe that’s creamy, comforting, and practically cooks itself, you’re in the right place. This family-favorite recipe uses simple ingredients and transforms into a rich, cheesy, and garlicky dinner that pairs perfectly with pasta or a crusty loaf of bread.
Whether you’re in the mood for something similar to BWW parmesan garlic chicken pasta crock pot or just want easy crockpot dinners that taste like a hug in a bowl, this one’s a winner.
This article will walk you through everything you need to know: ingredients, simple step-by-step instructions, variations, pro tips, and how to avoid common slow-cooker mistakes. We’ll also cover how to store and reheat it right, plus a few expert FAQ answers to keep your dinner game strong.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parm Chicken Crockpot Recipe
When it comes to chicken crockpot recipes easy enough for weekdays but rich enough for weekends, this creamy garlic parmesan dish hits every note. Here’s why it’s a staple in my kitchen:
- Dump-and-go simplicity: Toss in your ingredients and let your slow cooker work its magic.
- Comforting flavor: Rich garlic and melted parmesan create a sauce that’s savory, buttery, and addictively creamy.
- Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s your picky kids or foodie friends, everyone asks for seconds.
- Versatile: Serve over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even stuffed into hoagie rolls.
- Perfect for meal prep: Leftovers taste just as good (if not better) the next day.
I always say if you can make Pollo Loco, you can make this, and with even less effort.
Related dinner ideas you’ll love? Try our 30 Minute Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe or this Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Garlic Parm Chicken Crockpot Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for this rich and creamy garlic parmesan chicken dish. These ingredients are simple pantry staples, but together they create a bold and comforting sauce that clings perfectly to pasta or rice. For the best flavor, go for fresh, colorful ingredients that will photograph beautifully and taste even better.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – tender and juicy when slow-cooked
- 1 (16 oz) bottle Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce – bold flavor shortcut that nails the creamy garlic base
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese – for rich, velvety texture
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese – nutty and salty, adds depth
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic always wins
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – for herby balance
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – adds just a little kick
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water – helps the sauce come together without burning
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta (optional, to serve) – holds creamy sauce perfectly
- Chopped fresh parsley – for garnish and a pop of color
Tip: You can swap the BWW sauce with a homemade creamy garlic parmesan blend if you want total ingredient control. I’ll share that variation in Part 5.
How to Make Garlic Parm Chicken in a Crockpot
This recipe is the definition of a no-fuss dinner. Just layer the ingredients, set it, and let your slow cooker do all the work. It’s one of those fast dinner recipes that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen.
1. Add the chicken.
Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the bottom of your crockpot in a single layer.
2. Layer in the flavor.
Pour the Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce over the chicken, then add the cream cheese (cut into chunks), minced garlic, and chicken broth.
3. Season.
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and black pepper. No salt is needed, parmesan and the sauce bring plenty.
4. Cook low and slow.
Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2.5–3 hours, until the chicken shreds easily with two forks.
5. Finish and serve.
Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot, then stir in the parmesan cheese. Add cooked pasta if desired, or spoon over mashed potatoes or rice. Garnish with parsley.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parm Chicken Crockpot
This dish is creamy, cheesy, and packed with garlic-forward flavor, so it shines when paired with simple, complementary sides. Whether you’re serving it to guests or just want a cozy dinner, here are a few delicious ways to plate it.
Serve it over pasta
Penne, rotini, or fettuccine are ideal for scooping up every bit of the sauce. This transforms it into a full creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta crockpot meal.
Stuff it into hoagie rolls
Scoop the shredded chicken into toasted hoagie buns and top with mozzarella or provolone. Pop them under the broiler for a few minutes for an easy chicken parm sandwich.
Spoon over mashed potatoes
The creamy garlic sauce acts like a rich gravy, perfect over buttery mashed potatoes or even cauliflower mash for a low-carb swap.
Pair with garlic bread and salad
Balance the richness with a crisp Caesar salad and a few slices of garlic bread to soak up that sauce.
Serve with steamed broccoli or green beans
Bright greens bring a fresh contrast to the cheesy sauce and turn it into a balanced plate.
Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Variations & Customization
This is one of those garlic parm chicken crockpot recipes that adapts beautifully to your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, spicing it up, or going low-carb, here are some easy ways to personalize the dish:
Swap the protein
Instead of chicken breasts, use boneless thighs for richer flavor or even turkey tenderloin for something different.
Make it spicy
Stir in red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick that balances the creamy sauce.
Add vegetables
Throw in spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients and color.
Go low-carb
Skip the pasta and serve over spaghetti squash, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower mash for a keto-friendly version.
Use homemade sauce
Can’t find BWW sauce? Mix 1 cup mayo, ½ cup grated parmesan, 1 tbsp olive oil, garlic, and a splash of white vinegar to create your own parmesan garlic blend.
Want even more flexible dinners? Try our Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe for more cheesy comfort.
Garlic Parm Chicken Crockpot Storage & Reheating
One of the best parts of this recipe? It makes excellent leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta crockpot meal without losing its texture or flavor.
Storage
Let the dish cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it (without pasta) for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy. Stir occasionally to prevent separation.
Garlic Parm Chicken Crockpot Pro Tips
A few smart kitchen habits can turn this into one of your chicken parmesan crockpot recipes that you return to again and again. These tips help keep the sauce creamy, the chicken tender, and the flavors bold.
Use room-temperature cream cheese
Let the cream cheese soften before adding it to the slow cooker. This prevents clumps and helps it melt smoothly into the sauce.
Shred the chicken in the sauce
Shredding directly in the crockpot lets the meat soak up every bit of garlic parmesan flavor, making every bite juicy.
Don’t overcrowd the chicken
Keep the chicken in a single layer at the bottom of your crockpot for even cooking. If needed, stagger in layers with sauce in between.
Stir once halfway through (optional)
If you’re home, give the ingredients a quick stir about halfway. It helps the cheeses blend better, but don’t worry if you skip this; it’ll still be tasty.
Finish with fresh parmesan
Add a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan just before serving for extra salty richness and texture.
Garlic Parm Chicken Crockpot: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple chicken crockpot recipes easy enough for beginners can go sideways with a few overlooked details. Avoid these mistakes to make sure your garlic parmesan chicken turns out flavorful, creamy, and perfectly cooked.
Using frozen chicken without adjusting time
While it’s safe to use frozen chicken in the crockpot, it adds extra water and takes longer to cook. Thaw first or add 1–2 hours to your time.
Skipping the liquid
Even a small amount of broth or water is key to preventing the sauce from burning or becoming too thick. Don’t skip it.
Overcooking on high
High heat can dry out chicken breasts. If you’re home, low and slow is always better for this dish’s texture.
Not softening the cream cheese
Cold cream cheese won’t melt evenly, leading to a lumpy sauce. Let it come to room temperature before adding.
Adding pasta too early
If you’re adding pasta to the crockpot, do it at the end, cooked and drained. Otherwise, it’ll get mushy.
Garlic Parm Chicken Crockpot: Final Thoughts
This garlic parm chicken crockpot recipe is one of those dinners that looks and tastes like comfort food heaven, yet takes just minutes to prep.
With its creamy garlic parmesan sauce, fork-tender chicken, and flexible serving options, it’s a go-to dish for busy nights, lazy Sundays, or meal prep days.
Whether you’re craving a slow cooker twist on Pollo Loco or searching for more fast dinner recipes, this one’s a guaranteed win.
Try it once, and it might just become your signature dish.
Garlic Parm Chicken Crockpot: The Creamiest Weeknight Dinner You’ll Crave
Description
This creamy and savory garlic parm chicken crockpot recipe is a simple slow-cooked meal bursting with flavor. It starts with tender chicken breasts cooked low and slow in a rich, cheesy garlic parmesan sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
- Add parmesan garlic sauce, cream cheese (cubed), garlic, Italian seasoning, pepper, and broth.
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2.5–3 hours until chicken is fully cooked.
- Shred chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks.
- Stir in parmesan cheese and cooked pasta (if using).
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
Serving Size 1 heaping cup
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 560kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 34g53%
- Saturated Fat 16g80%
- Cholesterol 135mg45%
- Sodium 980mg41%
- Potassium 600mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 14g5%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 42g84%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Substitute thighs for a juicier version.
- For spice, add crushed red pepper or hot sauce.
- Sauce too thin? Use a cornstarch slurry.
- Skip pasta and serve over veggies for low-carb.
