This easy crockpot recipe features tender chicken paired with creamy garlic parmesan potatoes. It’s a comforting dinner that practically cooks itself—just toss it all in and let it simmer!
What’s great is the delicious smell that fills your kitchen while it cooks. It’s perfect for busy days when you just want a home-cooked meal without all the fuss. I love serving it with a simple salad for a complete feast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook evenly and stay moist. If you’re looking for more flavor, you can also use thighs, which remain tender and juicy after slow cooking.
Baby Potatoes: These add heartiness to the dish. You can substitute with regular potatoes; just cut them into smaller pieces. Sweet potatoes are also a great option for a slightly different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a strong flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder. Just mix in about a teaspoon for a milder taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan will always taste better than pre-packaged. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast gives a similar cheesy flavor, but it won’t melt the same way.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess to the sauce, but if you want a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead—just add it at the end to avoid curdling.
How Do I Get My Chicken and Potatoes to Cook Evenly in the Crockpot?
The key to even cooking is layering. Start with the potatoes at the bottom, as they take longer to cook. Add the seasoned chicken on top to keep the juices flowing down. This method not only ensures everything cooks properly, but it also prevents the chicken from drying out.
- Make sure to keep the lid on during cooking to retain heat and moisture.
- Avoid opening the lid too often, as each time you do, it adds to the cooking time.
- If possible, try to use chicken breasts of similar size to ensure they cook evenly.
Finally, remember to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. With these tips, your meal will turn out perfect every time!
How to Make Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 1/2 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then around 6 to 7 hours to cook on low, or 3 to 4 hours on high. Just set it and forget it until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic-Parmesan Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together well to ensure all the flavors combine.
2. Season the Chicken:
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil. Then, evenly coat the chicken with the garlic-Parmesan mixture, making sure each piece is fully covered for maximum flavor.
3. Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Start by placing the halved baby potatoes in the bottom of your crockpot. This helps them cook evenly and soak up all those delicious juices from the chicken. Pour the chicken broth over the potatoes to keep everything moist.
4. Add the Chicken:
Now, gently place the coated chicken breasts on top of the potatoes in the crockpot. This layering helps keep the chicken juicy while enhancing the potato flavor.
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and easily flakes apart with a fork, and the potatoes are tender.
6. Make It Creamy:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half into the crockpot. This will create a deliciously creamy sauce that brings the dish together beautifully.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooking is complete, garnish your dish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting one-pot meal!
Enjoy your cooking and the delightful meal that awaits!
for extra nutrition and flavor. Just cut them into similar sizes as the potatoes so that they cook evenly. Add them to the crockpot along with the potatoes to ensure they become tender and absorb all the delicious flavors from the chicken and sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator, or quickly submerge it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water. This will help maintain the chicken’s texture and ensure it cooks thoroughly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Creamier?
If you want an even creamier sauce, consider adding more heavy cream or half-and-half than the recipe calls for. You can also stir in a bit of cream cheese just before serving for an extra richness. Just remember to mix it well so it melts into the sauce!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, just add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Vegetables like carrots, green beans, or broccoli can be added
