This Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a real crowd-pleaser! Juicy chicken smothered in garlic and creamy parmesan pairs perfectly with tender potatoes.
Throw everything in the pot, and let it work its magic! It’s like having a personal chef without the fuss. Who knew dinner could be this easy? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with, but thighs can add more flavor and stay juicier. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breast also works.
Potatoes: Baby potatoes are great for their tender texture, but you can use regular potatoes, cut them into chunks, or even sweet potatoes for a different twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds the best flavor, but if you’re out, garlic powder in a pinch is fine too. Just remember to use less since it’s more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is ideal, but if you’re out, Pecorino Romano or even a blend of mozzarella and cheddar can be a good substitute.
Heavy Cream: You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version. If you’re dairy-free, coconut cream is an excellent alternative with a hint of sweetness.
How Do I Get the Perfect Cook on Chicken in the Crockpot?
To ensure your chicken comes out perfectly tender, follow these steps:
- Start with even-sized chicken pieces for uniform cooking. If your breasts are thick, consider slicing them in half or pounding them a bit for even thickness.
- Layering is key! Place potatoes at the bottom; they will absorb flavor and cook perfectly without overcooking the chicken.
- Cooking on low yields the best results in terms of tenderness. If you’re short on time, high heat works too, just don’t open the lid during cooking!
- Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) internally.
Following these tips will help you serve a delicious, comforting meal every time! Enjoy the effortless cooking with your Crockpot.
Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Potatoes:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and then cooks for 5-6 hours on low or 2.5-3 hours on high in the crockpot. After that, it’s ready to serve! Perfect for a busy day when you want an easy, tasty meal without much fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by lightly greasing the inside of your crockpot with a little olive oil or non-stick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes for easier cleanup later.
2. Add the Potatoes:
Place the halved or quartered baby potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot. Drizzle them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and half of the minced garlic. Toss the potatoes gently to coat them evenly with the seasonings.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season them on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and the Italian seasoning. Make sure they are nicely coated for maximum flavor.
4. Layer the Ingredients:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the potatoes in the crockpot. This allows the chicken to drip flavor down onto the potatoes as they cook.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the heavy cream (or half-and-half), grated Parmesan cheese, and the remaining minced garlic. Mix it well until you have a smooth and creamy sauce.
6. Pour the Sauce:
Carefully pour the garlic Parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken and potatoes, making sure everything gets a nice coating of that delicious flavor.
7. Cook It Up:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2.5-3 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and the potatoes nice and tender.
8. Adjust the Sauce (Optional):
Once cooked, if you find the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it. Just mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce. Cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes to thicken it up.
9. Serve It Up:
Carefully remove the chicken and potatoes from the crockpot. Place them on plates and drizzle the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over the top.
10. Add the Finishing Touch:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness. Enjoy your easy crockpot meal!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. If they’re still frozen, it may extend the cooking time significantly, and it’s best to cook on low for 6-8 hours instead of high to ensure even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute Parmesan with grated Pecorino Romano or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste will change slightly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before, layer them in the crockpot, and store it in the fridge. Just take it out in the morning, set it to cook, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you when you get home!
