Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that effortlessly combines juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and a rich burst of flavor, Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is your new best friend in the kitchen. This comforting dish brings together simple ingredients that transform into a mouthwatering feast, all cooked low and slow to perfection. The Parmesan and garlic marry beautifully with the seasoning and chicken broth, infusing every bite with warmth and savory satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this recipe is a genuine crowd-pleaser that you’ll return to time and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these straightforward but essential ingredients sets you up for success with this dish. Every component plays a crucial role—from the creaminess of Parmesan to the bright notes of parsley—creating an inviting plate full of flavor and texture.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These provide the tender protein base that soaks up the delicious seasoning and broth.
• 1 pound baby red potatoes, halved or quartered if large: They cook perfectly alongside the chicken, absorbing all those garlicky, cheesy flavors.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty dimension that makes this dish unforgettable.
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic: The soul of the flavor profile, giving the dish its signature aromatic kick.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every ingredient, balancing out all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat and depth that rounds out the seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix that ties the dish’s herbaceous notes together harmoniously.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Keeps everything moist and adds a lovely richness.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Offers a fresh pop of color and a mild herby brightness to finish the dish.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the chicken and potatoes tender while infusing savory moisture throughout the cooking process.

How to Make Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by washing the chicken breasts and patting them dry with a paper towel. Taking this simple step ensures the seasoning clings better and the chicken cooks evenly, setting the stage for a tender and flavorful main.

Step 2: Mix the Seasoning

In a mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. Stir these ingredients thoroughly so every spice and cheesy bite is perfectly distributed to create that irresistible crust on the chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Generously coat each chicken breast with the Parmesan and garlic mixture, pressing the blend firmly onto the meat. This step locks in flavor and ensures the chicken bakes up with a tantalizing, cheesy crust that’s absolutely divine.

Step 4: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Drizzle olive oil at the bottom of your slow cooker—it helps to keep the chicken moist and prevents sticking. Then, place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer so that each piece cooks evenly without overlapping.

Step 5: Add the Potatoes

Scatter the halved potatoes over and around the chicken in the slow cooker. Nestling the potatoes close to the chicken allows them to soak up all those garlicky, cheesy juices, resulting in tender, flavorful bites.

Step 6: Pour the Chicken Broth

Gently pour the chicken broth over the entire contents of the slow cooker. This liquid is essential as it maintains moisture and infuses the dish with savory richness during the long cooking cycle.

Step 7: Cook

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or if short on time, use the high setting for 3 to 4 hours. The slow cooking ensures tender chicken and perfectly cooked potatoes bursting with flavor.

Step 8: Check for Doneness and Serve

Once the cooking time is up, verify the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Carefully transfer everything to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, for that beautiful finishing touch.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

Garnishes

Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a vibrant herbal note that cuts through the richness. A light sprinkle right before serving brightens the dish wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty on its own, but serving it alongside a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables complements the creamy potatoes and chicken superbly. For bread lovers, warm crusty bread to soak up the garlic-infused juices is a dreamy addition.

Creative Ways to Present

Try plating the chicken breast on a bed of the garlicky potatoes with a drizzle of the slow cooker’s juices spooned generously over the top. Alternatively, serve family-style straight from the slow cooker at the table—it’s warm, inviting, and perfect for casual dinners where everyone digs in together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chicken and potatoes to cool to room temperature before packing them into airtight containers. Stored properly in the refrigerator, they will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making for easy, flavorful leftovers.

Freezing

If you want to save the dish for longer, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. For best quality, consume within 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently either in the microwave or covered in a low oven to keep the chicken moist and avoid drying out the tender potatoes. Adding a splash of chicken broth before reheating can restore some moisture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of boneless?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken breasts will add extra flavor but might require an additional 30 minutes of cooking time. Just ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

What if I don’t have baby red potatoes? What can I use instead?

You can substitute Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes. Just cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking alongside the chicken.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

While the slow cooker helps develop deep flavor and tenderness, you could bake the chicken and potatoes covered in the oven at 350°F for about 45-60 minutes, checking for doneness regularly.

Is Parmesan essential to the flavor?

Parmesan cheese plays a starring role in this dish, delivering its distinctive nutty, savory character. If needed, Pecorino Romano can be a substitute, but Parmesan is ideal for the classic taste.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Adding carrots, green beans, or bell peppers about halfway through cooking can add color and extra nutrition, just be mindful of cooking times so all ingredients stay tender but not mushy.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is one of those magical recipes that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. Its ease, richness, and comforting flavors make it a go-to meal you’ll love sharing with family and friends. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite that lives on your slow cooker roster forever.

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