Name: Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons oil; 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs); Salt and pepper, to taste; ¾ cup heavy whipping cream; ½ cup low sodium chicken broth; 1 tablespoon corn starch; 2 tablespoons freshly minced garlic (4-6 cloves); ½ teaspoon dried parsley; ¼ teaspoon salt; ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

If you’re looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dinner that feels a little fancy but requires almost no hands-on time, you’re going to love this Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe. I absolutely love how this turns out—golden seared chicken breasts slowly braised in a rich, garlicky cream sauce that tastes indulgent without being complicated. Whether you’re a slow cooker newbie or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a total winner for busy weeknights or even casual weekend meals.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hands-off cooking: You get tender, flavorful chicken with just a little prep and slow cooker magic.
Rich, creamy sauce: The garlic cream sauce tastes like it took hours, but it’s actually simple and quick.
Meal prep friendly: Perfect for busy schedules and great leftover potential.
Family favorite: My family goes crazy for this dish, and I bet yours will too.

A white plate on a white marbled surface holds a dish with three main layers. The bottom layer is a bed of light yellow fettuccine pasta, coated with a creamy white sauce speckled with green herbs. On top of the pasta is a piece of cooked chicken, light brown with slight grill marks, covered with the same creamy white sauce and sprinkled with small green herb pieces. To one side of the plate, there is a small pile of bright green steamed green beans, also lightly drizzled with the creamy white sauce. The photo was taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that velvety sauce and perfectly cooked chicken. I like to use fresh garlic for that punchy flavor, and searing the chicken first seals in all the juices.

Oil: Choose a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for searing without overpowering flavor.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts: I recommend using plump, even-sized breasts so they cook uniformly.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning helps bring out natural flavors before cooking.
Heavy whipping cream: This gives the sauce its luscious richness—don’t substitute with milk if you want that signature creamy texture.
Low sodium chicken broth: Adds depth without making it too salty.
Corn starch: This is your secret weapon to thicken the sauce perfectly during cooking.
Freshly minced garlic: Fresh is best here—it makes such a difference vs. pre-minced garlic.
Dried parsley: Adds a subtle herbal note without the hassle of chopping fresh herbs.
Salt and black pepper: To taste and balance the creaminess with a bit of bite.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. You can tweak the flavors or ingredients based on what you have or dietary needs.

Herb boost: Adding fresh thyme or rosemary can give the sauce a fragrant twist—I’ve done this when I want a more rustic flavor.
Dairy-free version: Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free broth; it’s less traditional but still wonderfully creamy.
Spicy kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
Mushroom addition: Toss in sliced mushrooms before slow cooking—they soak up the sauce beautifully and add great texture.

How to Make Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken Until Golden Brown

Heat your oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts well with salt and pepper. You’ll want to sear them for about 3-4 minutes per side until you get a nice golden crust. This step locks in the juices and adds incredible texture and flavor. If your pan isn’t big enough, do this in batches—you don’t want crowded chicken steaming instead of searing.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Creamy Garlic Sauce

While the chicken is searing (or just afterward), combine the heavy cream, low sodium chicken broth, corn starch, freshly minced garlic, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Whisk these ingredients well until the corn starch is fully dissolved—you’ll be surprised at how this simple mix becomes the luscious heart of the dish.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Creamy Perfection

Place the seared chicken breasts in your slow cooker, then pour the cream sauce over them, making sure everything is nicely coated. Cover and cook on low for about 3 hours. Depending on your slow cooker’s heat, you might want to check the internal temperature around 2.5 hours—the chicken should reach 165°F. The low and slow cook makes the chicken melt-in-your-mouth tender while the sauce thickens beautifully.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, scoop a generous amount of the creamy garlic sauce over the chicken breasts and serve immediately. You’ll love how the sauce clings to every bite, delivering garlic goodness in every mouthful.

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Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

Don’t skip searing: I learned this the hard way—it makes all the difference in flavor and texture, so don’t skip it!
Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic elevates the sauce far beyond pre-minced jarred garlic—it adds brightness and depth.
Check your slow cooker temperature: Some slow cookers run hotter, so start checking the chicken at around 2.5 hours to avoid overcooking.
Tight seal is key: Make sure your slow cooker lid fits snugly so the sauce thickens properly instead of thinning out.

How to Serve Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

A white plate holds three main layers: the bottom layer is light yellow fettuccine pasta with a smooth texture, placed loosely across the plate. On top, there is a layer of sliced, pale chicken covered in a creamy white sauce with visible herbs. The chicken is arranged in slices, showing the sauce dripping slightly over the pasta. To the side, a small pile of vibrant green beans is also topped with a drizzle of the same creamy white sauce. Small green herb bits are sprinkled on top of the chicken and sauce. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping this dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a little shaved Parmesan for that extra pop of flavor and color. Sometimes I add a few lemon zest shavings to brighten the richness, especially if serving for guests.

Side Dishes

This creamy chicken pairs beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes, garlic roasted green beans, or even a simple side of steamed rice to soak up all that garlicky sauce. My go-to is a crusty bread to mop up every last bit—trust me, you don’t want to waste a drop.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like plating the chicken over a bed of creamy polenta or even pasta ribbons twirled with a little olive oil and fresh herbs. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top adds a delightful crunch and presentation wow-factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best eaten within 3 days to keep the chicken tender and the sauce fresh. The cream sauce thickens in the fridge, but don’t worry—that’s easy to fix when reheating.

Freezing

I’ve also frozen this dish successfully. Just be sure to freeze it without extra sides and use freezer-safe containers. When thawed overnight in the fridge, the sauce might separate a bit, but reheating gently usually brings it right back together.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat leftovers is gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce looks too thick, and stir often. This keeps the chicken juicy and sauce creamy without breaking.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for the Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more flavor and stay juicy during slow cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs sometimes cook faster—check internal temperature to 165°F.
Is it necessary to sear the chicken before slow cooking?

While technically you can skip searing, I highly recommend it. Searing locks in the juices and creates a richer flavor, plus it gives your chicken that irresistible golden color.
How thick will the sauce be after slow cooking?

The sauce will thicken nicely thanks to the corn starch, becoming creamy but not too heavy. If you want it thicker, you can cook it uncovered for the last 15 minutes or stir in a little more corn starch slurry after cooking.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

You can! Sear the chicken using the sauté function, then pressure cook on high for about 8-10 minutes. Use quick release carefully, then add more cooking time if not fully cooked. Finish by simmering the sauce to thicken as needed.
What sides pair best with this creamy garlic chicken?

Mashed potatoes, rice, roasted veggies, or even buttery noodles all soak up the sauce beautifully. Fresh steamed green beans or a crisp salad lighten the plate and balance the richness.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe has become one of my favorite go-tos when I want a tasty, fuss-free meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple. I hope you enjoy how effortlessly it comes together and the way your whole family will ask for seconds. Give this a try on your next busy night—you’ll thank me later!