Name: Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 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)

Why Make This Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is not just another chicken dish; it’s a game changer in your weekly meal rotation. This recipe is simple, delicious, and brimming with flavors. The combination of tender chicken breasts, creamy parmesan, and flavorful garlic creates a comforting meal that everyone will love. Plus, cooking it in a crockpot makes it easy; you can set it and forget it! This dish is perfect for busy weekdays or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes

Creating Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is straightforward and requires only a few steps. You’ll need to gather the ingredients and follow the directions below. This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people, and the flavors blend beautifully while cooking, making each bite a delight.

Ingredients:

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)

Directions:

Making Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal:

Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by washing the baby potatoes and halving them. This will ensure they cook evenly and soak up the flavors of the dish.
Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until evenly coated. This step adds wonderful flavor to the chicken.
Place Ingredients in Crockpot: Layer the halved potatoes in the bottom of the crockpot. Then, place the seasoned chicken breasts on top. This method allows the chicken juices to flavor the potatoes as they cook.
Add Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and potatoes, ensuring they are well coated. The broth will help keep everything moist and tender.
Add Garlic and Cheese: Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the chicken. Then, add the grated parmesan cheese on top, making sure it covers the chicken nicely. This is where the garlicky, cheesy flavor starts to develop.
Cook the Mixture: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through. The low and slow method ensures that the chicken remains juicy while the flavors meld together perfectly.
Check Temperature: After the recommended cooking time, check if the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The potatoes should be fork-tender, soaking in all the tasty juices.
Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the chicken and potatoes gently from the crockpot. Spoon any remaining sauce over the top for extra flavor.
Garnish: If desired, chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the dish for added color and flavor before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a touch of freshness.

With these easy steps, you’ll have a delightful meal ready to impress your family and friends.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes

Serving Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is easy! Simply place the chicken and potatoes on plates, spoon some of the delicious sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley. You can serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal. This recipe pairs well with bread, allowing you to soak up the savory sauce. For those who love a bit of heat, a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes can be an exciting addition at the table.

How to Store Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes

If you have leftover Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes, you can store it easily for future meals. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Place the chicken and potatoes in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will last for about 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Tips to Make Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes

Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your chicken, herbs, and garlic, the better the overall taste will be. Try to use high-quality chicken and fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your family’s taste preferences. If you love garlic, add more! If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the red pepper flakes.
Don’t Overcrowd: If you are cooking a larger batch, make sure not to overcrowd the crockpot. Cooking too much at once can result in uneven cooking.
Add Veggies: You can easily add chopped carrots, green beans, or bell peppers to the mix for extra nutrition and flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking time; firmer vegetables may require a longer cooking period or should be added midway.
Leftover Magic: Use leftovers creatively! Shred any remaining chicken and toss it into salads, wraps, or pasta dishes for a quick meal prep option.

Variation

To keep things exciting, consider variations of this recipe. Try adding different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a unique twist. You can also incorporate chopped tomatoes or spinach for a burst of color and nutrition. For an Italian flair, add some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a savory flavor boost. Each variation can bring something new to your table while keeping the same comforting essence.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be aware that you will need to extend the cooking time. Ensure the chicken still reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.

2. Can I make this meal ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply add everything to the crockpot and start cooking.

3. What if I don’t have a crockpot?
If you don’t have a crockpot, you can make this dish in a slow cooker or even in the oven. For the oven, Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dutch oven for about 1-1.5 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.

4. Can I use red potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes! Red potatoes will work just fine. You may want to cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.

5. What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be transformed into wraps, salads, or served as a filling for sandwiches. Shredded chicken can also be added to pasta for a quick and easy meal.

With this garlic parmesan crockpot chicken and potatoes recipe, mealtime becomes a breeze, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors with minimal effort. Try it out, and watch it become a household favorite!