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This Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes recipe is the perfect solution when you want a comforting and flavorful meal that practically cooks itself. Tender chicken breasts nestled with creamy baby potatoes soak up a rich garlic and Parmesan sauce that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Minimal prep time means you can set it and forget it, making it ideal for busy evenings. The result is a cozy, hearty dinner that feels gourmet yet simple enough for weeknight dinners.
I first made this on a hectic weekday and was amazed at how effortlessly it came together. Since then, it has become a frequent request in my house for both its ease and taste.
Ingredients
- Four boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provide lean protein and soak up the flavors beautifully
- One and a half pounds baby potatoes: Halved for a tender, creamy texture that complements the chicken
- Three tablespoons olive oil: Keeps the chicken moist and enriches the sauce
- Half a cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory, nutty depth and a luxurious cheesy finish
- Five cloves garlic, minced: Imparts a pungent, garlicky kick that flavors the whole dish
- One teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Offers a blend of herbs that pair perfectly with chicken and potatoes
- Half a teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors
- Quarter teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and balance
- Two tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish and a fresh pop of herbaceous flavor
Ingredients
Choosing firm baby potatoes with smooth skin helps them cook evenly and taste fresh. Use good quality Parmesan for a richer sauce, and fresh garlic will always give you the best punch of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Crockpot with Olive Oil:
- Lightly grease the crockpot with one tablespoon of olive oil. This prevents sticking and adds a subtle richness to the base of your dish as it slow cooks.
- Arrange Chicken and Potatoes:
- Spread the halved baby potatoes evenly across the bottom of the crockpot. Place the chicken breasts on top of the potatoes so they can catch the savory juices as they cook.
- Mix the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining two tablespoons of olive oil, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This sauce brings all the bold savory flavors to the dish.
- Pour the Sauce and Coat:
- Generously pour the Parmesan garlic mixture over the chicken and potatoes. Use a spoon or spatula to lightly spread it around ensuring everything is coated in this cheesy, garlicky goodness.
- Cook Low and Slow:
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for four hours. This slow cooking builds deep flavors while keeping the chicken incredibly tender and the potatoes soft and creamy.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once cooked, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add bright color and fresh herbal notes that contrast beautifully with the rich sauce.
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Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. To freeze, portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Always thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain juiciness.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap baby potatoes for Yukon Gold or red potatoes just cut them into smaller pieces so they cook evenly. If you want a dairy-free version omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be a great way to add cheesy flavor without dairy. For Italian seasoning, if you don’t have a blend on hand, mix dried basil oregano rosemary and thyme for a similar herb mix.
Serving Suggestions
This meal is great on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans for a fresh contrast. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce. To fancy it up, serve the chicken and potatoes over mashed cauliflower or creamy polenta with a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil for a restaurant-style finish.
Cultural Context
Garlic and Parmesan are classic Italian-inspired flavors that bring comforting heartiness to this slow cooker meal. Using a crockpot keeps the preparation simple while letting the flavors meld beautifully. This dish is a modern twist on rustic European home cooking where wholesome ingredients combine effortlessly for satisfying results.
Pro Tips
- Make sure to coat everything evenly with the garlic Parmesan sauce for maximum flavor impact
- Do not skip greasing the crockpot as it helps to prevent sticking and adds richness
- Cook on low to keep chicken juicy and potatoes tender and avoid dry meat
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can frozen chicken breasts be used?
It's best to thaw chicken breasts fully before cooking to ensure even temperature and proper tenderness throughout the dish.
- → What are good potato substitutes?
Yukon gold or red potatoes work well when cut into smaller pieces to cook evenly alongside the chicken.
- → How to make it dairy-free?
Skip Parmesan or use dairy-free cheese. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor while keeping the dish dairy-free.
- → Is doubling the ingredients possible?
Yes, but ensure the crockpot is large enough to avoid overcrowding. Cooking time might extend slightly for proper doneness.
- → What if Italian seasoning is unavailable?
Mix dried basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme to create a similar aromatic blend that complements the dish well.