This Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a comforting dish made with tender chicken and creamy, cheesy potatoes. It’s super simple to throw together!
I love how the garlic and parmesan fill my kitchen with a yummy smell while it cooks. Plus, just toss it all in and let the crockpot do its magic—easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is perfect for this dish. If you prefer dark meat, feel free to use thighs instead. They’re juicy and rich in flavor!
Baby Potatoes: I love using baby potatoes because they cook evenly. If they aren’t available, try using regular potatoes cut into chunks. Sweet potatoes will work too for a sweeter taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic boosts the flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. About 1 teaspoon of garlic powder should do the trick if you don’t have fresh around.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy finish. If you want a milder flavor, substitute it with mozzarella or just skip it for a dairy-free version.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs is key, but you can easily swap it for individual herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil depending on what you have on hand.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Not Dry in the Crockpot?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot is convenient, but you must take care to keep it moist. Here are some tips:
- Use enough broth; it helps maintain moisture.
- Don’t overcook! Stick to the recommended cooking times.
- If possible, try to use chicken with skin or fat, as it adds flavor and moisture. In this recipe, you can also check the chicken’s doneness with a thermometer—165°F is the safe internal temperature.
- Shred the chicken right before serving to soak up any juices!
Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Potatoes:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. Sit back and relax while it cooks, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dinner waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
Start by mixing the melted butter, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This creates a tasty sauce that will flavor the chicken and potatoes beautifully.
2. Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Place the halved baby potatoes at the bottom of your crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth on top of the potatoes. This will help the potatoes cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.
3. Add the Chicken:
Now, place the chicken breasts on top of the potatoes. This way, the chicken will stay moist and soak up all that delicious broth while cooking.
4. Pour on the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
Drizzle the garlic and Parmesan mixture evenly over the chicken and potatoes. Don’t worry if it looks like a lot—this is where all the flavor comes from!
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
6. Adding the Finishing Touch:
Once everything is cooked, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top right before serving. This adds a nice pop of color and freshness!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tasty chicken and potatoes hot, alongside your favorite veggies or a crisp salad. Enjoy every bite of this comforting, flavorful meal!
Dig in and enjoy this simple dump-and-go crockpot meal packed with garlic and Parmesan goodness!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to extend the cooking time. Cook on low for 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. It’s crucial to check for doneness, as cooking times may vary with frozen meat.
Can I Substitute the Potatoes?
Absolutely! If you don’t have baby potatoes, you can use regular potatoes cut into chunks or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor. Just keep the cooking time the same, as they will cook at a similar rate.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep this dish by chopping the potatoes and mixing the sauce a day ahead. Store the ingredients separately in the fridge and combine them in the crockpot the next day. Just keep in mind that fresh meals generally taste best when cooked right before serving!
