crock pot cream of chicken recipe
The Best crock pot cream of chicken recipe
Oh man, there’s nothing quite like a good crock pot cream of chicken recipe to make a weeknight feel like a holiday. I’ve been making it since my kids were little—back when I still had time to cook, which was basically every night after work. This dish is so comforting, it feels like a hug in a bowl, and it’s the kind of thing that makes people ask, “What’s for dinner?” without me even having to explain. My family loves it because it’s easy to customize—add some peas and carrots for extra veggies, or swap out the chicken for turkey if we’re watching our sodium. It’s also got that creamy, rich texture that kids swear by, even if they don’t realize they’re eating something that’s actually pretty healthy for them. Plus, it’s got all the cozy flavors of a classic comfort meal without the fuss of last-minute scrambling. And let’s be real, when you’re serving it with mashed potatoes or crusty bread, it’s basically a full meal in one pot—no extra dishes, no stress, just pure satisfaction. My kids would eat it every single day if I let them, and honestly, I’d probably let them. It’s that good. It’s also got a bunch of nutrients—protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the cream, and some fiber if you add the veggies. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to make sure everyone’s eating something that’s actually good for them without them even realizing it. And the best part? It’s versatile. Throw it together on a busy weekend, or pull it out for a game night or a family dinner. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t just fill your stomach—it fills your heart.
Slow Cooker Cream of Chicken
A comforting, creamy chicken dish that’s easy to make in a crock pot, perfect for a cozy meal with family or friends. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook until golden brown (about 5-7 mins per side). Remove chicken and set aside.
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2 In the same skillet, sauté onion, celery, and carrots until tender (5 mins). Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
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3 In a bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water to form a slurry. Stir into the skillet with veggies and cook for 1 minute.
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4 Pour in chicken broth, then add chicken back to the skillet. Stir in flour mixture and bring to a simmer. Transfer to the crock pot.
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5 Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally. Stir in heavy cream, milk, and cheese until melted and creamy.
🔧Equipment
- Crock pot
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Cream of Chicken Works
This Crock Pot Cream of Chicken recipe is always a reliable choice for family gatherings because it’s simple to prepare and never fails to bring everyone together. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a make-ahead dish for a big holiday spread, the tender chicken and rich, creamy sauce make it a comforting favorite that never disappoints. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd without the stress of last-minute cooking.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Cream of Chicken
What is the best way to prepare a creamy crock pot chicken recipe?
To make a rich and creamy crock pot cream of chicken, start by browning chicken breasts or thighs in a skillet with butter and garlic. Then, add diced onions, celery, and carrots, and cook until softened. Pour in chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and a splash of milk or half-and-half. Stir well, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
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How can I avoid making the chicken rubbery or dry in the crock pot?
To prevent rubbery or dry chicken, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Season them well with salt, pepper, and herbs before adding to the crock pot. Cook on low heat for the longest possible time to ensure even tenderness. If using breasts, trim excess fat and cut them into bite-sized pieces to cook evenly.
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What ingredients can I substitute in the classic crock pot cream of chicken recipe?
You can easily swap some ingredients for variety: – Chicken broth: Use vegetable broth for a lighter option or chicken stock for richer flavor. – Cream of chicken soup: Substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. – Milk or half-and-half: Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version or add a splash of heavy cream for extra richness. – Onions and vegetables: Replace with bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor. – Chicken: Swap for turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
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How long should I cook the crock pot cream of chicken recipe?
Cooking time depends on the crock pot model and the ingredients used: – Low setting: Typically 6-8 hours. – High setting: Usually 3-4 hours for a quicker version. For larger batches or thicker consistency, you may need to cook longer. If the soup starts to thicken too much, stir in a bit of broth or water to loosen it.
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Can I make the crock pot cream of chicken recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, you can prepare the crock pot cream of chicken in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, transfer it to the crock pot on low setting and cook for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. For best results, add a splash of broth or water to help it reheat smoothly and maintain its creamy texture.
