When it comes to weeknight dinners, we all seek that perfect balance between delicious flavors, a comforting meal, and the convenience that makes cooking easy and stress-free. Enter the Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes—a dish that sings with flavors while making your life easier. With its savory garlic and rich Parmesan cheese mingling seamlessly with tender chicken and baby potatoes, this recipe delivers home-cooked comfort that tastes like it took hours to prepare, all while you manage your busy schedule.
Why We Love This Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
There are many reasons to fall head over heels for this Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes recipe. First and foremost, it requires minimal effort. You simply prepare your ingredients, toss them into the crockpot, and let your kitchen do the magic. You can spend your precious time attending to your family, catching up on a good book, or enjoying time with friends while this savory dish cooks to perfection.
Rich flavors are another highlight. The garlic infuses the chicken and potatoes, while the Parmesan adds a creamy, nutty finish that makes each bite satisfying. Plus, the comforting aroma that fills your home while it cooks is simply unbeatable.
Not to forget, this recipe is adaptable. You can easily tweak the ingredients or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own. This versatility ensures that it can cater to different tastes and preferences, making it a reliable option no matter who you’re cooking for.
Now, let’s break down the specifics of what you’ll need to whip up this comforting meal.
Ingredients about Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
To prepare this delicious Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes, you will need a straightforward list of ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a stunning dish that everyone will love. Next, let’s explore how to bring all these flavors together.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes Directions
To prepare your Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes, you will appreciate how easy and straightforward the steps are. Follow this simple guide, and you’ll have a hearty meal ready before you know it:
- Prepare Your Potatoes: Start by washing the baby potatoes under running water. Once they are clean, halve each potato for even cooking and to create a bite-sized piece that will soak up the flavors.
- Mince the Garlic: Mince the garlic finely to allow its robust flavor to infuse into the chicken and potatoes.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. This step ensures that the seasoning adheres well. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat them evenly. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes on top. Take a moment to rub the seasonings into the chicken for maximum flavor absorption.
- Layer the Crockpot: Place the halved potatoes at the bottom of your crockpot. Next, lay the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the potatoes, positioning them neatly.
- Add the Broth: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and potatoes. This will keep everything moist, flavorful, and ensure the dish cooks evenly.
- Finish with Cheese and Garlic: Sprinkle the minced garlic over the top and finish with grated Parmesan cheese. This layer will create a delicious crust as it cooks.
- Cook: Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s good to check occasionally, making sure everything cooks perfectly.
- Check Doneness: After the cooking time, make sure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the potatoes are lovely and tender.
- Serve It Up: When ready to serve, simply spoon the remaining sauce over each portion. If you’d like an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
This simple process transforms ordinary ingredients into a memorable meal, perfect for any occasion.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Serving Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is as delightful as preparing it. You’ll want to create a visually appealing presentation that showcases the beautifully cooked chicken and tender potatoes.
Start by spooning generous portions of chicken and potatoes onto each plate. Make sure to drizzle that flavorful broth over the top—this is where the magic lies! The sauce not only enhances the taste but also keeps everything moist. Sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley for vibrant color and a hint of freshness.
Consider pairing your serving with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies to complement the dish and add a refreshing crunch. This meal is filling enough to be a standalone dish, yet light enough that you can elevate it with a side, depending on your mood.
You’ll find that this Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is not just satisfying for the stomach but pleasing for the eyes as well.
Expert Tips: Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
To further enhance your experience with this recipe, here are some expert tips that will help you take your dish to new levels:
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to include additional vegetables like carrots or green beans to make the meal even more nutritious. These can be added along with the potatoes, allowing them to cook perfectly together.
- Marinate the Chicken: If time allows, marinate the chicken for a few hours in the olive oil and seasonings. This allows deeper flavor penetration before it hits the crockpot.
- Use Broth Alternatives: Instead of chicken broth, you can experiment with low-sodium vegetable broth or even homemade broth to customize the flavor profile.
- Adjust Flavor Levels: If you enjoy a kick, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even a splash of lemon juice before serving to elevate the flavors.
- Keep It Moist: If you’re using frozen chicken breasts, no worries! Simply extend the cooking time slightly, and there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Just ensure they reach the proper cooking temperature.
- Use Different Cheeses: Try other cheeses like Asiago or even a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor twist.
Implementing these tips will help you discover fresh ways to enjoy this comforting dish, bringing variety to your dinner table.
How to Store Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Should you have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine), storing your Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is simple. Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Properly stored, it can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you wish to store it even longer, consider freezing portions. Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring you remove as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove. Just remember to heat it until piping hot throughout for the best flavor.
Variation of Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
While the classic Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes style holds a special place in your heart, you may want to explore some variations that keep things exciting:
- Herb Variations: Swap out the Italian seasoning for herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile. These herbs work exceptionally well with the rich taste of chicken and potatoes.
- Creamy Twist: For a creamier texture, add a can of cream of chicken soup or a splash of heavy cream to the broth before cooking. This adds a delicious creaminess that elevates the entire dish.
- Lemon Garlic: For a fresh citrus twist, add the zest and juice of one lemon to the crockpot. The acidity brightens up the dish and pairs wonderfully with the garlic and Parmesan.
- Spicy Garlic: If you’re looking for a bit of heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños to the mix.
These variations allow you to tailor the dish to suit your mood or the preferences of your guests, ensuring that every meal feels unique.
FAQ
What is the best way to cook Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes?
The best method is to layer halved baby potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot, seasoning the chicken breasts and then placing them on top. Pour chicken broth over the ingredients, adding garlic and Parmesan cheese to finish. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender and juicy.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that cooking time may increase slightly. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for the dish to be safe and delicious.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, you could reduce the amount of cheese used or increase the quantity of vegetables added. Consider using lean chicken cuts as well as low-sodium broth for a healthier profile.
Is it possible to make Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes in a pressure cooker?
Absolutely! If you prefer using a pressure cooker, you can reduce the cooking time significantly to about 10-15 minutes on high pressure, ensuring you give it a natural release afterward for optimal tenderness.
Can I reheat Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes?
Yes, reheating is simple. You can microwave it or place it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Just ensure it reaches a temperature safe for consumption.
Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- for garnish fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and halve the baby potatoes for even cooking.
- Minimize the garlic finely to infuse its flavor into the dish.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry. Drizzle olive oil over them and season with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Rub the seasonings into the chicken.
- Layer the halved potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot, then place the seasoned chicken breasts on top.
- Pour chicken broth over the chicken and potatoes. Sprinkle minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. Check for doneness; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- When ready to serve, spoon the sauce over the chicken and potatoes and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!