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Cozy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs (Easy Recipe)

crockpot garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image

Tender, fall-apart chicken thighs swimming in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that tastes like it took way more work than it did. This set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker meal is perfect for busy weeknights and requires minimal effort for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 68 thighs)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra grated Parmesan for serving

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
  2. Arrange in the crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the bottom of your crockpot in a single layer.
  3. Add the garlic and broth: Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the chicken. Pour the chicken broth around the edges (not directly over the chicken).
  4. Slow cook on low (6-7 hours) or high (3-4 hours): Cover and cook until the chicken is fork-tender and easily shreds.
  5. Remove the chicken: Using tongs, carefully transfer the cooked chicken thighs to a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm. Do not discard the liquid in the crockpot.
  6. Make the sauce: Turn the crockpot to high. Add the butter and heavy cream to the remaining liquid, stirring until the butter melts completely. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Pour the slurry into the crockpot while stirring continuously. Let the sauce cook uncovered for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
  7. Add the Parmesan: Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  8. Return the chicken to the sauce: Place the chicken thighs back into the crockpot, spooning the sauce over the top. Let everything heat through for 2-3 minutes.
  9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for dipping.

Notes

Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry for a thick sauce. Add Parmesan off the heat to prevent clumping. For best results, cook on low for tender chicken. Season in layers and taste the sauce at the end. Leftovers keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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