There’s nothing quite like a slow cooker meal, is there? The convenience, the incredible flavors… it’s hard to beat. And when you combine that slow-cooking magic with the rich deliciousness of creamy chicken, the possibilities are endless. From creamy chicken pasta to chicken and veggies swimming in a luscious sauce, the crock-pot is your friend.
In this article, we’ll dive into the versatility and benefits of creamy chicken in crock pot recipes, exploring some of the most popular and delicious variations you can easily whip up at home.
Creamy Chicken and Vegetables: A Hearty One-Pot Meal
Creamy chicken and vegetables is the kind of meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The slow cooker does all the work, and the result is a comforting, flavorful dish that the whole family will love.
Choosing Your Chicken
For the most flavor and juiciness, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are the way to go. They stay moist during the long cooking time. If you want to take it up a notch, sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
Chicken breasts can also be used, but keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t dry out. Searing the breasts first is a good idea here, too.
Selecting Vegetables
Potatoes, especially baby reds, are great in the slow cooker. They get super tender and soak up all that creamy sauce. Broccoli florets are a classic addition, but green beans or carrots work well, too. Just make sure you choose veggies that can hold their shape during slow cooking.
Crafting the Creamy Sauce
The sauce is where this dish really shines. Here’s how to make it luscious and flavorful.
The Base of the Sauce
Heavy cream is essential for richness and body. Look for heavy cream with 36-40% fat. Full-fat cream cheese adds a little tang and helps thicken the sauce, and using the full-fat version will help keep it from curdling.
Flavor Enhancements
Garlic is a must-have. Freshly minced garlic gives you the most flavor. To add another layer of flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine (a dry wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works well) or chicken stock.
Smoked paprika, oregano, or rosemary can be used to customize the flavor profile. When substituting fresh herbs for dried, use 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried.
Creamy Chicken Pasta: A Comfort Food Classic
Creamy chicken pasta is one of those dishes that just feels like a warm hug, especially when it’s made in the slow cooker. Here are some tips to make a chicken pasta dish that rivals your favorite restaurant version.
Inspired by Restaurant Favorites
Many creamy chicken pasta recipes are inspired by dishes like Olive Garden’s Chicken Alfredo, so you know it’s going to be good. The goal is to bring that restaurant experience right into your own kitchen.
The Pasta Element
Here’s a pro tip: cook the pasta separately. That way, it won’t turn to mush in the slow cooker. Throw it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and it’ll be perfect.
Also, don’t forget to save some of that pasta water. You can use it to thin out the sauce if it gets too thick.
Key Ingredients for Pasta
For a classic flavor, a little Italian seasoning goes a long way. And don’t skimp on the Parmesan cheese – it adds a salty, savory richness that really makes the dish sing.
Tips and Tricks for Slow Cooker Success
- Sear the chicken: This step is optional, but searing the chicken in a cast iron skillet before slow cooking really enhances the flavor and texture.
- Adjust cooking times: Cooking times will depend on the type of chicken you use. Chicken thighs, for example, may require slightly longer. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Add vegetables later: Overcooked vegetables are mushy. To avoid this, add them later in the cooking process.
- Season throughout: Taste and adjust seasonings as you go for the best flavor.
Wrapping Up
Making creamy chicken in your slow cooker is easy and versatile. Whether you’re craving chicken and vegetables or chicken pasta, there’s a simple recipe that will work for you.
Serve this creamy chicken over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. For best results, reheat any leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can also store the leftovers in the refrigerator for two to three days.