Name: Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes You'll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 375 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier texture); 1 pound Baby Potatoes (Halved for even cooking); 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Use nutritional yeast for a lower lactose alternative); 4 cloves Garlic, minced (Increase if desired); 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano; 1 teaspoon Dried Basil; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper; 0.25 cup Olive Oil; 0.25 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped (Sprinkle before serving)

Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes Recipe

There's a certain comfort in the sound of a slow cooker working its magic in the kitchen. The gentle bubbling and the tantalizing aroma of garlic and parmesan transform my home into a haven of warmth and flavor. This Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes recipe is my go-to for busy weeknights when takeout just won't cut it. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, I can whip up a meal that's not only easy to prepare but also impressively delicious.

Whether you choose tender chicken breasts or succulent thighs, this dish features creamy potatoes that soak up all that savory goodness. Picture yourself enjoying a hearty, family-friendly meal that leaves you free to relax or tackle the evening's activities. No fuss, no stress-just pure comfort on a plate. Join me on this delightful culinary journey and find out how to make this irresistible dish that promises to become a staple in your home!

Why Love This Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes?

Simplicity at Its Best: With minimal prep required, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a flavorful meal without the fuss.

Mouthwatering Aroma: Imagine walking into your home and being greeted by the delightful scent of garlic and parmesan that wafts through the air as it cooks.

Family-Friendly Delight: This dish's gentle approach to flavor means even the pickiest eaters will devour it with pleasure.

Versatile Ingredients: Switch up the protein or add your favorite veggies-this recipe adapts to your preferences!

Time-Saving Magic: Set it and forget it! This slow cooker recipe allows you to enjoy your day while your dinner cooks itself.

Create memorable weeknight dinners with this Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes Recipe and avoid the fast food temptation; it's your family's new favorite!

Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts - The main protein source; swap for chicken thighs for a juicier texture.

For the Potatoes
• Baby Potatoes - Add heartiness and absorb flavors; halving them ensures even cooking.

For Flavoring
• Grated Parmesan Cheese - Delivers a rich, umami flavor; use nutritional yeast for a lower lactose alternative.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) - Essential for that aromatic kick; feel free to increase if you're a garlic lover.
• Dried Oregano (1 tsp) - Adds a lovely herbal note.
• Dried Basil (1 tsp) - Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Salt (½ tsp) - Elevates the taste of all ingredients.
• Black Pepper (¼ tsp) - Introduces a mild heat to balance flavors.
• Olive Oil (¼ cup) - Ensures moisture and aids in flavor infusion.

For Garnishing
• Fresh Parsley (¼ cup, chopped) - Adds a burst of fresh flavor and a lovely pop of color; sprinkle generously before serving.

This Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes Recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients destined to delight your family during any weeknight!

How to Make Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes

Prepare Ingredients: Gather and measure all your ingredients before you start. It's the key to a smooth cooking experience, trust me!
Layer: Place halved baby potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker, creating a cozy bed for the chicken. Follow this with your boneless, skinless chicken breasts-or thighs if you prefer.
Mix Paste: In a bowl, combine minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix it well, then spread this flavorful paste generously over the chicken.
Cook: Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 6 hours, or high for 3 hours. Avoid stirring-it's hard, I know, but your patience will yield delicious crispy bits!
Check Doneness: Once the time's up, your chicken should shred effortlessly, and the potatoes will be fork-tender. Ensure the chicken's internal temperature hits 165°F for safety.
Serve: Before you dig in, top with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that delightful finishing touch!

Optional: Serve with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes

Prep Properly: Gather all your ingredients beforehand. This minimizes the stress and ensures everything goes smoothly during assembly.
Chicken Choice: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier meat, but remember to adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Avoid Mixing: Resist the urge to stir while cooking! This helps maintain those delicious crispy bits and keeps the flavors rich.
Thicken Sauce: If you find your sauce too thin, mix cornstarch with some of the cooking liquid to thicken it before finishing cooking uncovered for 15 minutes.
Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble your ingredients the night before and refrigerate. Just remember it may need a bit longer to cook if starting from cold.

These tips will help you create the best version of your Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes Recipe, ensuring a delightful dinner for your family!

Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this comforting dish and explore exciting variations!

Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for added juiciness and rich flavor. The traditional crockpot experience gets an upgrade!
Dairy-Free: Omit parmesan cheese entirely or swap it for nutritional yeast for a low-lactose alternative. It'll offer a nutty taste to keep the dish flavorful.
Veggie Boost: Add in fresh vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or green beans to the slow cooker. They'll soak up the garlicky goodness and add more nutrients to the meal.
Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a delightful kick of heat. It transforms the dish into a comforting, spicy delight.
Herb Varieties: Experiment with different herbs by swapping oregano for thyme or rosemary. Elevate the flavor profile based on what's in your pantry.
Crispy Topping: Before serving, sprinkle a mixture of breadcrumbs and parmesan on top and pop it under the broiler for a few minutes for a crunchy finish.
Coconut Cream: For a creamy twist, add a splash of coconut cream before cooking. It will infuse a subtle sweetness, balancing the flavors wonderfully.
Citrus Zest: Brighten the dish with a touch of lemon or lime zest added in the last hour of cooking. It'll give a fresh zing that enhances the savory tones.

With these variations, you can customize your Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes Recipe for something new and delightful any night of the week!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. To thaw, place in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving for best results.
Reheating: Microwave or warm on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of broth if needed to retain the creamy texture. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes even after storage!
Airtight Guidance: Be sure to cool the dish first before transferring it to storage containers to maintain optimal taste and texture.

What to Serve with Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes?

To create a truly satisfying meal, consider these delightful pairings that complement the comforting flavors of chicken and potatoes.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory garlic and parmesan sauce, crusty bread adds a satisfying texture to your dinner.
Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens offers a refreshing contrast, balancing out the creamy, rich dish beautifully. A light vinaigrette drizzled on top will enhance the flavors even more.
Steamed Asparagus: This vibrant vegetable adds a pop of color and lightness. Its earthy taste complements the hearty chicken and potatoes while providing a nutritional boost.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: With their caramelized exterior and tender interior, roasted Brussels sprouts create a delightful flavor contrast. Season them with a hint of balsamic for extra zing.
Creamy Mashed Cauliflower: For a lower-carb alternative, consider creamy mashed cauliflower. Its smooth texture complements the dish, enhancing the cozy experience.
Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed with garlic, fresh spinach adds color and nutrition, creating a refreshing balance to the meal.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled white wine enhances the dining experience, bringing together rich and savory notes from the dish.
Chocolate Molten Lava Cake: For dessert, indulge in a warm chocolate molten lava cake-a sweet and decadent way to end your meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble all the ingredients up to 24 hours in advance by placing the halved potatoes and chicken in the slow cooker, then mixing the garlic, parmesan, and spices separately and refrigerating them overnight. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you're ready to cook, simply spread the cold mixture over the chicken and set your slow cooker to low for 6 hours (or high for 3 hours). By following these steps, you'll enjoy a hassle-free, flavorsome dinner that still tastes just as delicious as when you make it fresh!

Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing baby potatoes, look for those that are firm, smooth, and free of dark spots or blemishes. For the chicken, opt for fresh, boneless, skinless pieces, checking for any discoloration or off odors. The fresher your ingredients, the richer the flavor in your Easy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes!

How do I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
You can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain moisture when reheating, simply add a splash of water or broth in the microwave or stovetop. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts until warmed through. Enjoy every bite!

Can I freeze the Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes?
Yes, you can! For freezing, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a sturdy, freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight, then reheat on low heat. Adding a little broth while reheating helps keep the dish creamy and delicious.

What should I do if my sauce is too watery?
If you find your sauce is a bit too thin, don't worry! You can thicken it by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of cooking liquid from the crockpot. Once mixed, stir it back into the crockpot and cook uncovered on high for about 15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! If you're looking to lower your lactose intake, you can substitute the grated parmesan with nutritional yeast. This will give it a cheesy flavor without dairy. Just be mindful that the overall taste will vary slightly. Also, ensure to check for any potential allergies related to garlic and seasonings. Always better to be safe!

Can I use other protein options in this recipe?
For sure! This recipe is versatile, allowing you to switch the chicken for other proteins such as turkey or even plant-based options, making it suitable for many dietary preferences. Just remember to adjust cook times appropriately based on what you use. Happy cooking!