This Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a warm and tasty treat! The chicken cooks to be juicy and flavorful, while the potatoes become soft and buttery.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? Just toss everything in and let the magic happen! I love serving it with a sprinkle of parsley on top for a pop of color. 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to use and cook well in the crockpot. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a bit more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Baby Potatoes: These are perfect for this recipe as they cook evenly. If you don’t have baby potatoes, you can use regular potatoes, just chop them into smaller pieces.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work. Use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic.
Parmesan Cheese: I love the rich flavor it adds. If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano can be a great alternative. Nutritional yeast also works for a dairy-free option!
Butter: Unsalted butter keeps the dish balanced. If you’re watching your diet, you can use olive oil instead, but the taste will be slightly different.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken and Potatoes Cook Perfectly?
Cooking in a crockpot is pretty simple, but there are a few tricks to make sure everything turns out just right.
- Layering matters! Start with potatoes at the bottom since they take longer to cook. Chicken goes on top to keep it moist.
- Cook on low for a longer time for the juiciest chicken, but high works if you’re short on time. Just keep an eye on the clock!
- For extra flavor, don’t forget to season your chicken and potatoes with salt and pepper before cooking.
- If you want a crispy finish, broil the chicken briefly after cooking – just watch it closely!
Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes to prep and will cook in your crockpot for 6-7 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high. Make sure to factor in additional time if you decide to broil the chicken for a golden finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce Mixture:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Combine the melted butter, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nicely blended!
2. Layer the Potatoes:
Take your crockpot and place the halved or quartered baby potatoes at the bottom. Try to spread them out in an even layer so they cook evenly.
3. Add the Chicken:
Next, place the chicken breasts on top of the layer of potatoes. Don’t worry if they overlap a bit; they’ll be delicious in the end!
4. Pour the Sauce Over Everything:
Now it’s time to pour that tasty garlic Parmesan mixture you made earlier over the chicken and potatoes. Make sure everything is well coated so you get that great flavor throughout.
5. Cook It Slow:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the potatoes are nice and tender!
6. Optional Broiling (for a Crispy Finish):
If you want a little extra crispiness, after cooking, place the chicken under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy this easy, flavorful crockpot meal!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to increase the cooking time. Frozen chicken will typically require an additional hour on low or about 30 minutes on high. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving!
Can I Substitute the Potatoes with Another Vegetable?
Absolutely! If you want to switch things up, you can use carrots, sweet potatoes, or even broccoli. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness as needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of broth or milk if it seems a bit dry!
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
This meal is quite filling on its own, but if you’re looking for extra sides, consider a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables. Fresh bread is also great for soaking up that delicious garlic Parmesan sauce!