Slow Cooker Bacon Parmesan Chicken Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a more intense flavor, consider browning the chicken breasts in a hot skillet for one minute per side before placing them in the slow cooker. This adds a layer of depth to the meat, though it is not strictly necessary for a tender result. Ensure you use a high-smoke point oil if you choose to sear the chicken first.

If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the cream of chicken soup with a low-sodium chicken broth. However, note that this will result in a thinner consistency.

To thicken it back up, you can whisk in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water during the final thirty minutes of the cooking process.

Variations

• Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Add one teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture before pouring it over the chicken for a subtle, warming heat that complements the parmesan.
• Vegetable-Packed Version: Toss in two cups of fresh baby spinach or sliced mushrooms during the last thirty minutes of cooking to add texture and flavor to the creamy sauce.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until steaming hot.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure the chicken and sauce are cooled to room temperature within two hours of cooking before placing them in the fridge to maintain safety and quality.

When reheating, do so gently to prevent the sauce from breaking or the chicken from becoming rubbery.

While this dish is best served immediately, you can prepare the sauce mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The chicken should be placed in the slow cooker just before you are ready to start the cooking cycle to ensure the highest level of food safety and optimal texture.

Serving ideas

Serve this chicken over a bed of warm pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, which is ideal for catching the creamy parmesan sauce.

Alternatively, pair it with mashed potatoes or steamed green beans to balance the richness of the dish. A side of crusty garlic bread is also an excellent addition for mopping up any remaining sauce on the plate.

For a fresh presentation, garnish the finished chicken with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or extra grated parmesan just before serving.

The brightness of the herbs helps cut through the savory, creamy notes of the sauce, providing a visually appealing contrast that elevates the simple, comforting nature of the meal for a casual dinner.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Bacon Parmesan Chicken

Prep 5 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 10 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Place the four boneless skinless chicken breasts into the bottom of the slow cooker insert, arranging them side by side to ensure even cooking throughout the process.
2. Scatter the crumbled cooked bacon over the chicken breasts. Evenly sprinkle the garlic powder and the Italian seasoning over the top of the chicken and bacon layer.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and the grated parmesan cheese until smooth. Pour this mixture over the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving. Let the chicken rest for 3 minutes.

Contains: milk, gluten

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

420

Protein

38 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

24 g

Fiber

0.5 g

Sugar

2 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.