Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Enjoy tender Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes, a flavorful, easy meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. This comforting dish combines juicy chicken with perfectly cooked potatoes, all infused with garlic and creamy Parmesan cheese, creating a rich, satisfying dinner option that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just set it and forget it while your slow cooker works its magic, freeing up time for other things.
• Rich Flavor Profile: Creamy Parmesan and garlic combine to infuse every bite with irresistible taste.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a comforting weekend dinner.
• One-Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked together in a single slow cooker pot.
• Family-Friendly: A satisfying option that appeals to kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple and straightforward ingredients make the Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes come alive. Each item adds its own unique element to the dish, whether it’s the creamy texture, savory aroma, or vibrant color.

• Chicken Thighs: Juicy and tender, they stay moist and absorb flavors beautifully.
• Baby Potatoes: Small and tender for quick cooking and a creamy bite.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh, minced garlic adds a robust and aromatic punch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan delivers a sharp, creamy richness.
• Olive Oil: Helps to blend flavors and create a luscious coating.
• Dried Italian Herbs: A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme provides a classic Mediterranean flair.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and deepens the savory base of the dish.
• Fresh Parsley: Optional but recommended for fresh garnish and color.

Variations for Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

This recipe is easy to customize to your liking or dietary preferences. Feel free to tweak the ingredients or add new ones to make it uniquely yours.

• Protein Swap: Use chicken breasts or turkey thighs if preferred for a leaner option.
• Potato Choices: Substitute baby potatoes with sweet potatoes or Yukon gold for a different texture.
• Veggie Boost: Add chopped carrots, green beans, or mushrooms to increase vegetable intake.
• Cheese Variation: Try adding mozzarella or Asiago cheese for a different creamy twist.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to add a little heat and smoky flavor.

How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by rinsing and patting dry the chicken thighs. Clean the baby potatoes, leaving them whole for even cooking. Mince the garlic finely so it infuses well into the dish.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a large bowl, toss chicken thighs with olive oil, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Place the baby potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker, pour in the chicken broth, and nestle the seasoned chicken on top. This layering helps the potatoes absorb the rich flavors from the chicken and broth.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender and juicy and the potatoes are perfectly soft.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Finish

About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the chicken and potatoes, then cover again to melt the cheese. This step creates a creamy, cheesy topping that ties everything together.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

• Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs: They provide more flavor and stay juicier during slow cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Give the potatoes and chicken enough room to cook evenly.
• Fresh Garlic Is Key: Avoid garlic powder for a more vibrant and fresh flavor.
• Stir Before Serving: Gently mix the potatoes and chicken together after cooking to coat them with the Parmesan sauce.
• Optional Crisping: For a golden finish, briefly broil the chicken in the oven after slow cooking.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus to add texture and balance out the creamy chicken and potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner, plate the chicken and potatoes in rustic bowls topped with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. Or serve on wooden boards for a family-style presentation that invites sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days; the flavors deepen as they sit.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well—just portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers or bags and thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep everything moist.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used but may cook faster and can dry out more easily, so keep an eye on them and consider cooking on low to retain moisture.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

No need to peel baby potatoes; their thin skins become tender and add great texture and nutrients to the dish.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

To make a vegan version, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like cauliflower or tofu and use a plant-based Parmesan alternative.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the slow cooker?

Lightly oil the slow cooker insert before adding the ingredients, and avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain consistent cooking temperature.

Can I double this recipe for a larger group?

Absolutely! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients without overcrowding for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. Its simplicity and depth of flavor will quickly make it a favorite in your meal rotation. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting, savory goodness with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

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