I’ve found that the crockpot makes everything so much easier. With minimal effort, you can assemble the ingredients in the pot, set it, and let it cook slowly until the flavors have had time to caramelize. The result? A savory and aromatic meal with succulent chicken, tender potatoes, and just the right amount of cheese from Parmesan and mozzarella. This is one of those crockpot meals that you can make without spending hours in the kitchen, and the best part is that it travels well too, making it perfect for getaways or bringing to a friend’s house.
This recipe is also flexible-use skin-on chicken thighs for a bit more richness or swap in chicken breast if you prefer white meat. Either way, the flavors will be equally delicious and satisfying. And if you want to take it up a notch, be sure to use freshly grated Parmesan for the ultimate cheesy experience. Whether you’re sun-bathing by the pool or having a family meal at home, this one pot dish guarantees a filling, protein-packed dinner that’s both simple and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Easy to Make
One of the best things about this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe is how easy it is to prepare. With just a quick prep of the potatoes and chicken, everything goes into the slow cooker to cook. This means you can set it and forget it, leaving you free to focus on other more important things. There’s minimal effort involved, and the result is a flavorful, satisfying meal that everyone will love.
All the Components of a Great Meal
This dish brings together all the essential components of a great meal. You’ve got lean protein from the chicken, cheese like Parmesan and mozzarella, and of course, the hearty potatoes. The combination of these ingredients results in a creamy, savory, and irresistible meal. The slow-cooking process ensures the flavors meld perfectly, giving you a comforting and tender dish every time.
Flexible
Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or a dish to share with friends on the weekend, this recipe is flexible enough to fit both. You can easily customize it to your liking by adding extra herbs, spices, or veggies. The slow cooker makes it a great option for any occasion, whether you’re at home or hosting a casual dinner.
Less Than 10 Ingredients
What makes this dish even better is that it requires less than 10 ingredients. It’s a budget-friendly recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can make a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekends.
Versatility
The versatility of this dish makes it stand out. You can adjust it to suit your personal taste by playing with the flavors. Want it spicier? Add more herbs or spices. Want a creamier topping? Just add a bit more mozzarella or Parmesan. It’s a great base for experimentation, allowing you to make it your own every time.
Ingredients
To make this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes dish, you’ll need a simple set of ingredients that bring out rich and savory flavors with little effort. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breast or chicken thighs (skinless, boneless) – for a juicy, tender protein base.
- Baby red potatoes or Yukon Gold Petite Potatoes – these add a hearty, starchy component that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
- Garlic – fresh minced garlic or clove garlic enhances the aromatic flavor of the dish.
- Unsalted butter – helps to create a creamy, melted texture and enhances the dish’s richness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese – these cheeses bring the cheesy, creamy texture and a flavorful, indulgent finish.
- Garlic Parmesan sauce – adds a punch of savory and cheesy goodness.
- Milk – thins the sauce to make it creamy without overpowering the flavor.
- Pepper, paprika, salt, and ground black pepper – for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
- Italian seasoning, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and onion powder – these aromatic herbs create a well-balanced flavor.
- Fresh parsley – for a pop of color and a fresh, vibrant touch to finish the dish.
- Water or chicken stock – to keep the chicken and potatoes tender during the slow cooking process.
This recipe is versatile, so you can add or adjust garlic powder, fresh garlic, or even chicken stock based on your preferences. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a tasty, flavorful, and hearty meal perfect for any occasion!
Flavor Variations
Spicy:
To add a little kick to your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a drizzle of Sriracha or Tabasco. This will bring a spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy mozzarella.
Swap the Chicken Breasts:
If you’re looking for a change from the usual, try swapping the chicken breasts with boneless pork chops. It adds a different texture and flavor to the dish while still keeping it hearty and satisfying.
Add Some Veggies:
To make the meal even more nutritious, you can add some veggies like broccoli, sliced mushrooms, onions, or green beans. Add these ingredients in the last 30-45 minutes of cooking so they stay fresh and crisp. You can also try stirring in spinach or kale just before adding the cheese for added color and nutrition.
Change Up the Mozzarella:
For a different flavor profile, feel free to change the mozzarella to other cheeses like Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gouda. This gives the dish a new, exciting twist while keeping it just as cheesy and comforting.
How to Make
To start, prepare your crockpot by layering 5 medium-sized potatoes at the bottom. I like to use baby potatoes or any variety that holds up well during cooking.
Next, take cubed chicken breasts or chicken thighs, depending on your preference, and place them on top of the potatoes. Drizzle the potatoes and chicken with olive oil to add richness and flavor. Season generously with garlic powder, smoked paprika, pepper, and salt. For added depth, throw in some minced garlic and Italian seasoning.
Once your base is ready, add a splash of chicken broth to help maintain moisture during the cooking process. You don’t need too much, just enough to keep everything from drying out. If you’re a fan of buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan sauce, this is a great time to add a few spoonfuls to the mix, or any garlic parmesan sauce of your choice. It will infuse the dish with a creamy, savory flavor as it slowly cooks.
Now, cover your crockpot and cook the meal on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow-cooking method allows all the flavors to meld together and makes the chicken incredibly tender while keeping the potatoes soft and hearty. By the time it’s done, your chicken should be fully cooked and have reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Finally, the best part add a generous handful of shredded mozzarella cheese about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will give it that melt-in-your-mouth texture and elevate the dish into something special. Once the cheese is fully melted, sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it hot and enjoy the comforting, flavorful meal that everyone will love.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, pair your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes with a side of green beans or a fresh salad. If you’re craving something more, a slice of focaccia or slow cooker corn casserole works wonderfully. Don’t forget to finish with a sweet touch like crockpot peach cobbler, apple cobbler, or blueberry cobbler for a delicious dish and a sweet finish.
Recipe Variations
Spinach and Artichoke Twist: Add a handful of chopped spinach and artichoke hearts during the last hour of cooking. This gives a creamy, veggie-packed flavor that adds freshness to the dish.
Sun-Dried Tomato Delight: For a burst of tangy and sweet flavor, mix in some sun-dried tomatoes. Their richness balances the overall taste.
Herb-Butter Finish: Before serving, stir in a tablespoon of herbed butter. It adds an extra layer of richness and savory flavor to the dish.
Paprika and Smoked Paprika Magic: Infuse the dish with a smoky depth by adding a pinch of regular paprika and smoked paprika into the seasoning mix. It adds complexity to the flavor profile.
Italian Sausage Medley: If you’re craving a hearty twist, add some pre-cooked Italian sausage slices. It makes the dish more satisfying and savory.
Lemon Garlic Zest: Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and sprinkle with lemon zest. This brings a zesty and refreshing finish.
What to Serve with Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Steamed Vegetables:
Pair your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes with a healthy serving of steamed vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or green beans for a simple, nutritious addition.
Side Salad:
A side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers, topped with a light vinaigrette, offers a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken and potatoes.
Garlic Bread or Baguette:
Serve some warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette on the side. It’s perfect for mopping up the rich juices from the dish.
Roasted Vegetables:
For an extra burst of flavor, roast vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. The slight caramelization brings out their sweetness.
Quinoa or Rice:
Serve the Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes over a bed of fluffy quinoa or rice. It’s a great way to absorb all the savory flavors and make the meal more filling.
Ranch Dressing:
Add a bit of ranch dressing on top for an extra creamy, tangy finish. It pairs perfectly with the richness of the dish.
Storage Tips
Storage: Let your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers or plastic bags. Make sure to label the containers with the date to track freshness. Refrigerate the leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. For small portions, use the microwave with a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the dish moist. For larger portions, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) with aluminum foil on top. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to make the top layer crisp. On the stovetop, reheat over low to medium heat and add broth if needed to prevent moisture loss. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Adding fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon can restore the vibrant flavors after reheating.
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Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 500kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Cholesterol 100mg34%
- Sodium 800mg34%
- Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 35g70%
* Note: These values are approximations and may vary depending on the exact brands and ingredients used.
