Introduction to Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
When life gets busy, I can always count on my trusty Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes to save the day. This dish is my go-to for those hectic weekdays when time seems to slip through my fingers. With tender chicken and creamy potatoes, it delivers comfort with virtually no effort.
Imagine walking into your home, greeted by the rich aroma of garlic and Parmesan wafting through the air. It’s perfect for impressing loved ones or simply indulging after a long day. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is an absolute gem for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s not only simple to prepare but also requires minimal hands-on time. The magical combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a creamy, comforting dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy. Plus, cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup, leaving you more time to enjoy with your family!
Ingredients for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to culinary success, and my Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is no exception. Below, you’ll find a list of everything you need to create this mouthwatering dish. If you’re curious about exact measurements, don’t worry! You’ll find them at the bottom of the article for easy printing.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This lean protein is the star of the show, soaking up all that savory flavor.
- Baby potatoes: Halving these little gems allows them to cook perfectly while soaking in the creamy sauce. Their natural sweetness complements the rich flavors beautifully.
- Chicken broth: Using broth adds depth and moisture, ensuring that your chicken remains juicy and the potatoes tender.
- Heavy cream: This is what makes the dish irresistibly creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can be a great substitute!
- Grated Parmesan cheese: The star of our sauce! Its nutty, salty flavor enhances every bite, making the dish feel indulgent.
- Garlic: You can’t go wrong with garlic! It adds that aromatic punch that elevates the whole meal.
- Italian seasoning: A medley of dried herbs that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. It’s a quick way to infuse flavor without a lot of extra work.
- Salt and pepper: Simple but essential, these two flavors help bring out the best in each ingredient.
- Fresh parsley: Garnishing with chopped parsley not only adds color but also a fresh blast of flavor. Trust me; it makes your dish pop!
Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Sometimes, I add a sprinkle of paprika or a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Happy cooking!
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Creating this delightful Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is remarkably easy! Follow these steps, and let your slow cooker work its magic. Trust me; it’s worth it!
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by halving the baby potatoes. This is like giving them a warm hug before they go into the pot! Layer them at the bottom of the crockpot. They will soak up all the creamy goodness while cooking, turning perfectly tender and flavorful. Trust me, they’ll be a hit!
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Next, grab your chicken breasts. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. I like to coat my chicken with a little olive oil beforehand to help the spices adhere better. This simple step enhances the flavor and allows the seasoning to shine through. You’ll be amazed at how a little seasoning goes a long way!
Step 3: Whisk the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic until smooth. This is the star sauce that transforms your dish into something spectacular! The garlic adds a fragrant touch, while the Parmesan gives that unforgettable depth of flavor. Don’t skimp on this step; it’s where the magic happens!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now comes the fun part. Place the seasoned chicken on top of your arranged potatoes. Then, pour that luscious creamy sauce evenly over the chicken and potatoes. Make sure to cover them well; this will ensure even cooking and flavor distribution. You’re on your way to deliciousness!
Step 5: Cooking Time
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and no longer pink in the middle, and the potatoes should be soft enough to pierce with a fork. If you’re unsure, a meat thermometer will tell you the chicken is safe at 165°F. You’re almost there!
Step 6: Serving the Dish
Once everything is cooked to perfection, carefully remove the chicken and potatoes from the crockpot and set them aside on a serving platter. If you like, you can thicken the remaining sauce in the crockpot by stirring it for a couple of minutes or letting it cook uncovered for 15 minutes. Finally, serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top, and get ready for everyone to rave about your creation!
Tips for Success
- Don’t rush the marinating! Allow your chicken to soak in the seasoning for at least an hour if possible.
- For extra creaminess, add a dash of cream just before serving or sprinkle more Parmesan on top.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through, reaching 165°F for safety.
- Feel free to add veggies like carrots or green beans for more color and nutrition.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings and enjoy the leftovers the next day!
Equipment Needed
- Crockpot: This is essential for slow cooking. A multi-cooker can also work.
- Cutting board: Perfect for preparing your ingredients. Any sturdy surface will do.
- Knife: A sharp knife is key for halving potatoes and cutting chicken.
- Mixing bowl: Use this for whisking the creamy sauce. A measuring cup can substitute.
- Serving platter: For a beautiful presentation. Any large dish works great!
Variations
- Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist. They complement the garlic beautifully!
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the creamy sauce for a flavorful heat that will spice things up.
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version that still offers hearty flavors.
- Cheesy Variation: Mix in different types of cheese, like mozzarella or sharp cheddar, for a cheesy goodness that will delight your taste buds.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute baby potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb meal without sacrificing taste.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
- Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast to the creamy main dish.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- White Wine: A glass of chilled white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
- Presentation: Garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan for a delightful visual appeal.
- Steamed Veggies: Add some steamed broccoli or green beans for color and nutrition.
FAQs about Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
As a home cook, I know questions are bound to pop up while making this delicious meal. Here are some commonly asked questions about my beloved Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes to help you out!
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and store the ingredients separately in the fridge. Just pop them into the crockpot when you’re ready to cook.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes! Frozen chicken breasts can be used, but just remember that cooking times may need to be adjusted. Always ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftover Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
What else can I add to the crockpot? You can add seasonal vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed!
Can I use a different type of cheese? Certainly! Feel free to experiment with cheeses such as gouda, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick. Each will bring a unique flavor to your dish!
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is more than just a meal; it’s a heartfelt experience that brings families together around the dinner table. The comforting creaminess, delightful garlic aroma, and tender chicken create a symphony of flavors that warms the soul.
As a busy mom, knowing I can whip up this dish without breaking a sweat gives me peace of mind. It’s a delicious way to share love and joy, allowing you to savor each bite while making memories with your loved ones. Give it a try, and you’ll see how wonderful home-cooked meals can be!
Print
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
- Total Time: 6-7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a delicious, creamy dish that combines tender chicken breasts with baby potatoes, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Place the halved baby potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Layer them on top of the potatoes.
- In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken and potatoes.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked and the potatoes are soft.
- Remove chicken and potatoes from the crockpot and set aside.
- Stir the remaining sauce to combine and thicken slightly if desired.
- Serve chicken and potatoes topped with the creamy sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning for a few hours before cooking.
- Can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot/Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg