There’s a special kind of magic that happens when chicken and potatoes meet in a slow cooker. My Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes is a weeknight wonder. It delivers incredibly tender chicken and perfectly cooked potatoes, all swimming in a creamy, dreamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Trust me, this dish is pure comfort in a bowl.
I originally whipped this up on a particularly chaotic Tuesday. It was a lifesaver then, and it continues to be a staple in my home. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy but is wonderfully simple to create. Plus, the leftovers are fantastic heated up for lunch the next day!
Why I Love This Recipe
Honestly, this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes is a true hero for busy evenings. It’s ridiculously easy!
- Effortless Weeknights: Toss everything in and let the slow cooker do the work.
- Fantastic Flavor: That garlic Parmesan sauce is simply divine.
- Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters usually dig into this one.
- Minimal Cleanup: It’s practically a one-pot meal, a true blessin’!
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes Ingredients
Gathering these simple ingredients feels like preparing for a little bit of culinary happiness. The combination of savory chicken, hearty potatoes, and that irresistible garlic Parmesan goodness is a flavor symphony waiting to happen.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Our star protein. Cut into pieces for even cooking, they become incredibly tender.
- Red Potatoes: These little gems turn wonderfully soft. Their skins add a nice texture, so no need to peel!
- Parmesan Cheese (Grated & Shredded): This is where the magic happens. Grated for the sauce, shredded to melt on top.
- Garlic (Minced & Powder): Double the garlic means double the deliciousness. It provides that pungent, savory kick.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of classic herbs that screams comfort food.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Just a touch helps meld the flavors beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the wonderful tastes.
- Chicken Broth (for Instant Pot): This provides the necessary liquid for pressure cooking.
Substitutions and Tips
Don’t have fresh garlic? Use an extra teaspoon of garlic powder. Feel free to swap Italian seasoning for a mix of dried oregano and basil too. If you crave a richer sauce, a splash of heavy cream stirred in at the end is pure indulgence. For those watching sodium, a low-sodium chicken broth is a great choice.
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes
Making this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes is easier than you think. You’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready with minimal fuss. Seriously, the slow cooker does most of the hard work for you!
For the Slow Cooker
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Grab your large slow cooker. Add the chicken pieces. Then, toss in the chopped red potatoes. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Next, add the minced garlic. Don’t forget the garlic powder. Italian seasoning goes in too. Drizzle everything with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Give it all a good stir to coat evenly. This ensures every piece flavors up.
Step 2: Cook
Secure the lid on your slow cooker. Set it to cook on HIGH. Usually, 2 to 3 hours is perfect. For a slower, gentler cook, set it to LOW. This takes about 4 to 6 hours. Check the chicken. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The potatoes should be fork-tender.
Step 3: Finish with Parmesan
Once cooked, remove the lid. Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the top. Pop the lid back on. Turn off the slow cooker. Let it sit for a few minutes. The residual heat melts the cheese. This creates a beautiful, bubbly topping.
For the Instant Pot
Step 1: Add Broth and Ingredients
Pour the chicken broth into your Instant Pot. Add the chicken pieces. Add the chopped potatoes next. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan. Add the minced garlic and garlic powder. Italian seasoning follows. Drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Give it a quick stir.
Step 2: Pressure Cook
Secure the Instant Pot lid. Make sure the steam valve is sealed. Set the cooking mode to ‘High Pressure’. Cook for 10 minutes. Once done, perform a quick pressure release. Be careful of the steam. Ensure your chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
Step 3: Finish with Parmesan
Open the lid carefully. Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the chicken and potatoes. Close the lid again. Turn off the Instant Pot. Allow it to sit for a few minutes. The residual heat melts the cheese perfectly. You’re all set for a delicious meal.
PrintCrockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-6 hours (Slow Cooker) / 10 minutes (Instant Pot)
- Total Time: 2-6 hours
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker, Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and flavorful Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal. This dish features tender chicken and potatoes coated in a rich garlic parmesan sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (or more)
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth (for Instant Pot)
Instructions
- Slow Cooker: Add all ingredients EXCEPT the shredded Parmesan cheese to the slow cooker. Stir to mix well.
- Cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-6 hours.
- Top with shredded Parmesan cheese. If you turn off the slow cooker and let it sit with the lid on, the cheese will melt in a few minutes.
- Instant Pot: Pour broth into the pressure cooker. In a large bowl, add all the ingredients EXCEPT the shredded Parmesan cheese. Pour the food mixture on top of the broth.
- Close lid and seal valve. Set high pressure and cook for 10 minutes (ensure internal temperature for the chicken reaches 165° Fahrenheit). When done, quick release pressure.
- Top with shredded Parmesan cheese. If you turn off the Instant Pot and let it sit with the lid on, the cheese will melt in a few minutes.
Notes
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
- For a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream in the last 30 minutes of slow cooking or after pressure cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How to Store Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes
Refrigeration
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes is quite forgiving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. It reheats beautifully, making it great for lunches. Just pop it in the microwave or a toaster oven.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it. Let the chicken and potatoes cool completely first. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well in the freezer for about two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Some texture change might occur, but the flavor remains.
Tips for Success
- Make sure your chicken is cut into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking.
- Don’t overcook the chicken. It can become dry.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Salt really wakes up the flavors.
- For a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water. Add it near the end of cooking.
- Warm your serving bowls. It keeps the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes hot longer.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: Necessary for cooking. A Dutch oven works too.
- Cutting Board & Knife: For prepping chicken and potatoes.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accurate ingredient amounts.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining ingredients before cooking.
- Spatula or Spoon: For stirring and serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes piping hot.
- A simple side salad with vinaigrette is delightful.
- Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- A crisp white wine or sparkling water complements the flavors well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a wonderful choice for this recipe. They tend to stay more moist and tender, even with longer cooking times. Just ensure they cook through to that safe 165°F internal temperature.
How do I make the sauce creamier for this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes?
For an extra creamy sauce, a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half is your secret weapon. Stir it in during the last 30 minutes of slow cooking, or right after the Instant Pot finishes. This adds a luxurious richness!
Can I prepare the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can chop your chicken and potatoes and store them separately in the fridge. Combine everything in the slow cooker right before you want to start cooking. This makes getting dinner started even quicker.
What is the best way to ensure the potatoes are tender in this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes?
Cutting your potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces is key. This helps them cook evenly with the chicken. Also, avoid overcrowding the slow cooker; give everything a little room to heat through properly for tender results.