Garlic Parmesan Chicken Potatoes

This garlic parmesan crockpot chicken and potatoes recipe has transformed my weeknight dinner routine with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked potatoes, and savory garlic-parmesan sauce creates a comforting meal that practically cooks itself.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly busy season when I needed nutritious meals without spending hours in the kitchen. It quickly became my most requested dish when hosting friends who always ask for the recipe before leaving.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: form the protein foundation perfect for absorbing all the delicious flavors while remaining juicy.
• Baby potatoes: halved provide the perfect starchy complement that holds their shape during slow cooking.
• Chicken broth: creates the moisture needed for proper slow cooking while adding depth to the sauce.
• Grated parmesan cheese: delivers that nutty umami flavor that forms a delicious crust on the chicken.
• Minced garlic cloves: infuse the entire dish with aromatic flavor use fresh for best results.
• Italian seasoning: offers a perfect herb blend with minimal effort look for versions with oregano basil and thyme.
• Olive oil: helps the seasonings adhere to the chicken and adds richness to the final dish.
• Salt and pepper: enhance all the flavors without overwhelming.
• Red pepper flakes: optional add a gentle heat that balances the richness of the cheese.
• Fresh parsley: brightens the finished dish with color and fresh flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes:

Wash and halve the baby potatoes ensuring they're roughly the same size for even cooking. The cut side will absorb more flavor during the slow cooking process so don't skip this step.

Season the Chicken:

Thoroughly coat each chicken breast with olive oil first to help the seasonings adhere. Then apply an even layer of Italian seasoning salt pepper and red pepper flakes using your hands to massage the seasonings into the meat for maximum flavor penetration.

Layer the Ingredients:

Start with potatoes on the bottom which allows them to cook in the flavorful broth. Position them cut side down for better flavor absorption. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top where they'll benefit from the rising steam while developing a beautiful crust.

Add the Liquid Base:

Pour chicken broth carefully around the sides rather than directly over the chicken to maintain the seasoning crust. The liquid should come about halfway up the sides of the chicken without completely submerging it.

Apply Garlic and Cheese Topping:

Distribute the minced garlic evenly ensuring some falls between the chicken pieces and onto the potatoes. Follow with parmesan cheese creating a blanket over the chicken that will melt into a savory crust during cooking.

Set the Cooking Time:

For the most tender results cook on low for 6 to 7 hours allowing the flavors to develop slowly. If pressed for time high setting for 3 to 4 hours works but may result in slightly less tender chicken.

Check for Doneness:

Verify chicken has reached 165°F at the thickest part using a meat thermometer. Potatoes should yield easily when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.

Rest Before Serving:

Allow the dish to rest uncovered for 5 minutes before serving which helps the juices redistribute throughout the chicken ensuring maximum moistness.

The parmesan cheese is truly the star ingredient here. I discovered through experimentation that freshly grated parmesan from a block creates a much more flavorful crust than the pre-grated variety in a shaker. The first time I made this for my mother-in-law, she was convinced I had spent hours in the kitchen!

Make-Ahead Options

This dish benefits tremendously from preparation in advance. You can assemble all ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before, cover and refrigerate. Simply place it in the crockpot base in the morning and turn it on. The flavors actually develop more fully with this method as the seasonings have time to penetrate the chicken overnight.

Perfect Pairings

While this dish stands beautifully on its own, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette creates the perfect balance to the rich, savory flavors. For special occasions, I serve it with crusty garlic bread to soak up the incredible sauce that forms at the bottom of the crockpot. A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the garlic and parmesan flavors wonderfully.

Customization Ideas

This recipe welcomes personalization based on your preferences and pantry. Try adding quartered onions or mushrooms to the potato layer for additional depth. Boneless chicken thighs can replace breasts for even juicier results, though cooking time remains the same. For a creamier sauce, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream during the final 30 minutes of cooking. Dried herbs can substitute for Italian seasoning in a pinch - a combination of oregano, basil, and thyme works perfectly.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this slow cooker dish?

Yes, bone-in chicken thighs or breasts work wonderfully in this dish. They may require slightly longer cooking time (add 30-60 minutes) but will provide even more flavor. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.

→ What can I substitute for baby potatoes?

Regular potatoes cut into 1-inch chunks work perfectly. You can also use sweet potatoes, or a combination of root vegetables like carrots and parsnips for variety. Just ensure pieces are similar in size for even cooking.

→ How can I make this dish creamier?

For a creamier version, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This creates a richer sauce that beautifully coats the chicken and potatoes.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Green beans, peas, spinach, or broccoli make excellent additions. Add hearty vegetables like carrots with the potatoes, but add more delicate vegetables during the last 30-60 minutes to prevent overcooking.

→ What's the best way to store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave at 50% power, or in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

→ Can this dish be frozen?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Portion into airtight containers, cool completely before freezing, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture of the potatoes may change slightly but will still be delicious.