Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken

Indulge in Comforting Elegance: Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken

Embark on a culinary journey that marries simplicity with elegance with our Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken recipe. Picture succulent chicken breasts enveloped in a velvety cream sauce infused with the earthy richness of mushrooms and the aromatic essence of garlic. This dish is a testament to the beauty of slow cooking, where flavors meld together harmoniously to create a meal that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a cozy family meal, this recipe is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. So, dust off your slow cooker and prepare to elevate your dining experience with this exquisite dish.

Ingredients:

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups of sliced mushrooms
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
3. Add Mushrooms and Garlic: In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook until the mushrooms are golden brown and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chopped parsley, and dried thyme. Stir until well combined.
5. Pour Over Chicken: Pour the mushroom sauce over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they are fully covered.
6. Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
7. Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
8. Serve: Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce is thickened, serve hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Creamy Texture: For an even creamier sauce, you can add a dollop of cream cheese or heavy cream to the mushroom sauce before pouring it over the chicken.
• Extra Flavor: Enhance the flavor of the dish by adding a splash of white wine or sherry to the mushroom sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or seitan for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• To make a keto-friendly version of this recipe, replace the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade keto-friendly version made from coconut milk, almond flour, and mushroom broth. You can find many keto-friendly cream of mushroom soup recipes online.
• Omit the flour and use xanthan gum or another low-carb thickener to thicken the sauce.
• Serve the creamy garlic mushroom sauce over grilled or baked chicken thighs or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
   • Yes, bone-in chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in chicken thighs may take longer to cook.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   • Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by using coconut milk or a dairy-free sour cream alternative in place of the sour cream and Parmesan cheese. Be sure to check the labels of canned ingredients to ensure they are dairy-free as well.
3. Can I use other types of mushrooms?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of mushrooms in this recipe, such as cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms. Each type will impart its own unique flavor to the dish.
4. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker?
   • Yes, you can make this recipe on the stovetop by following the same instructions, but using a large pot or Dutch oven instead of a slow cooker. Simmer the chicken and sauce over low heat for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
   • Yes, leftovers can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop.
6. What can I serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken?
   • This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables. Choose your favorite accompaniments to complete the meal.
7. Can I add other herbs and spices to the sauce?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the sauce to your liking. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil would all complement the dish beautifully.
8. How can I make the sauce thicker?
   • If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a slurry of cornstarch and water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, simmer the sauce uncovered for a longer period to allow it to reduce and thicken naturally.
9. Can I make this recipe in advance for a dinner party?
   • Yes, this recipe can be made in advance and reheated before serving. Prepare the dish as directed, allow it to cool completely, then refrigerate until ready to reheat. Simply reheat in the slow cooker or on the stovetop until heated through.
10. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
    • While it’s best to use fresh chicken breasts for optimal flavor and texture, you can use frozen chicken breasts in a pinch. Increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked.

Savor the indulgent flavors of Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken – a dish that seamlessly blends comfort and sophistication into every bite. With tender chicken breasts bathed in a luscious cream sauce infused with the earthy aroma of mushrooms and the bold punch of garlic, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this slow cooker masterpiece is sure to delight. So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to experience culinary bliss with Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken.