The cornstarch is a thickening agent that gives the sauce the right consistency. We have a couple of cornstarch alternatives listed in the notes, though!

Replace the 2 tablespoons cornstarch with ½-1 teaspoon xanthan gum. Alternately, skip the slurry entirely and add the chicken broth straight to the Crockpot. To thicken the sauce, use ½-⅔ cup parmesan cheese.

We’re so glad you love it! Thanks for sharing, Maureen!

You’d want to use low- or no-sodium versions of as many ingredients as possible, and reduce or omit the ½ teaspoon of added salt that the recipe calls for. Keep in mind that this will affect the overall flavor of the dish, so you may need to increase other ingredients to offset the reduced salt.

Sure! We still recommend using a fresh block, though, rather than anything pre-grated.

Sure!