This Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a cozy dish that cooks all day while you relax. Juicy chicken and tender potatoes are covered in a rich garlic and cheesy sauce!
I love that it practically makes itself while I chase after my kids or binge-watch my favorite show. It’s the perfect meal to come home to, all warm and ready to enjoy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless skinless chicken breasts keep things simple, but you can also use thighs for extra juiciness. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, consider using tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Baby Potatoes: These are great because they cook quickly, but regular potatoes work too—just chop them into smaller pieces. If you want a change, sweet potatoes bring a nice sweetness to the dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute (about 1 teaspoon for a clove). I really love using garlic—it adds an amazing depth!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano is a tasty substitute. For a dairy-free option, look for plant-based cheese shreds.
Heavy Cream: This makes the dish creamy, but you can swap it with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy in the Crockpot?
Keeping chicken juicy in the crockpot is all about the cooking time and moisture. Here are some handy tips:
- Always cook on low if you can; this helps maintain moisture.
- Using enough liquid is crucial—don’t skimp on broth or cream.
- Try not to lift the lid during cooking, as it lets steam escape.
- Check the internal temperature. Chicken should reach 165°F to be safely cooked but not overdone!
With these techniques, your chicken will come out flavorful and tender every time!
Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and cooks in the crockpot for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, you can set it and forget it while you enjoy your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by washing the baby potatoes and cutting them in half or quarters, depending on their size. Place them evenly at the bottom of your crockpot. This will create a delicious base for our chicken!
2. Mix the Garlic Butter:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together until well mixed. This will give our chicken an amazing flavor!
3. Layer the Chicken:
Next, place the chicken breasts right on top of the potatoes in the crockpot. Use a brush or spoon to spread half of the garlic butter mixture over the chicken, ensuring they are nicely coated.
4. Whisk Together the Sauce:
In another bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and chicken broth until well combined. Pour this lovely creamy mixture evenly over the chicken and potatoes. It’s going to make everything super rich and tasty!
5. Add the Parmesan Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese generously over the entire dish. This is where the magic happens, adding that irresistible cheesy flavor!
6. Cook It Up:
Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook your dish on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F) and the potatoes are nice and tender.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, take the lid off and see that amazing creamy dish! Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness. Serve warm alongside a crisp salad or some steamed veggies for a full meal!
Enjoy your creamy, garlicky Parmesan chicken and potatoes straight from the crockpot! It’s cozy, comforting, and absolutely delicious!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to extend the cooking time. Cook on low for 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F). It’s important to ensure that chicken is cooked through before serving.
How Can I Make This Dish Lower in Calories?
If you’d like to lighten things up, consider using skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts, swapping heavy cream for light cream or half-and-half, and using a lower-fat cheese or nutritional yeast as a substitute for Parmesan. You can also reduce the butter or replace it with olive oil.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to refresh the sauce.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or green beans. Just chop them into similar sizes as the baby potatoes and layer them in the crockpot along with the potatoes for a colorful, nutritious addition.
