I still remember my first apartment, a tiny space with a kitchen barely big enough to turn around in. But what that kitchen lacked in size, it made up for in delicious memories. One of the first meals I ever truly mastered was a simple chicken and potatoes dish, but it wasn’t until I discovered the magic of the crockpot that things *really* took off! I experimented with different flavors, and after countless tries, I landed on a winner: Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes you’ll ever make!
The Easiest, Most Flavorful Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes Ever!
Okay, friend, let’s talk about comfort food. Real, honest-to-goodness, make-you-feel-good-from-the-inside-out comfort food. And what’s more comforting than tender, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked potatoes, and that irresistible garlic parmesan flavor? This recipe is a total game-changer because it’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal effort (thanks, crockpot!), and delivers maximum flavor. I’m talking about a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a cozy Sunday supper. Are you ready to dive in?
Why I LOVE This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy: Seriously, you basically just dump everything in the crockpot and let it do its thing.
- Minimal cleanup: One pot wonder! Need I say more?
- Bursting with flavor: Garlic, parmesan, herbs… it’s a symphony of deliciousness!
- Kid-friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this one.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get down to business! Here’s how to make the magic happen.
- Prep the Potatoes: Wash and chop about 2 pounds of Yukon gold or red potatoes into 1-inch chunks. These hold their shape beautifully in the crockpot, but feel free to use your favorite variety.
- Season the Chicken: Pat about 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it’s key to flavor!
- Layer in the Crockpot: Place the chopped potatoes in the bottom of your crockpot. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Add the Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the potatoes.
- Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of melted butter, 4 cloves of minced garlic (or more, if you’re a garlic lover like me!), 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon of dried parsley. The sauce should be smooth and fragrant.
- Pour the Sauce: Pour the garlic parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken and potatoes. Make sure everything is nicely coated.
- Cook to Perfection: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. The chicken should be easily shredded with a fork.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks.
- Return to the Crockpot: Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the potatoes and sauce.
- Add a Finishing Touch: Stir in an additional 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish. This adds a final burst of flavor and freshness.
- Serve and Enjoy! Serve hot and enjoy every delicious bite!
Success Tips for Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Want to guarantee crockpot perfection? Here are my top tips for success!
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Pre-shredded Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting properly. Freshly grated cheese will give you the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the Garlic to Your Taste: If you’re a garlic fanatic, feel free to add more! I sometimes add a whole head of roasted garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the crockpot, such as broccoli florets, green beans, or sliced carrots. Add them in the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
- Thicken the Sauce (If Needed): If the sauce is too thin for your liking, you can thicken it by whisking together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir the slurry into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Variations and Add-Ins
This recipe is fantastic as is, but it’s also incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas to customize it to your liking:
- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an extra creamy and decadent dish.
- Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
- Bacon Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes: Crispy bacon crumbles are always a welcome addition! Sprinkle them on top before serving.
- Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright and tangy flavor.
- Add Spinach: Stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach during the last 15 minutes of cooking. It will wilt down beautifully and add a boost of nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
This Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:
- A simple green salad: The freshness of a salad provides a nice contrast to the richness of the chicken and potatoes.
- Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans are all great choices.
- Crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce!
- Garlic bread: Because you can never have too much garlic!
Making it Ahead and Storing Leftovers
This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! You can assemble the crockpot in the morning before work, or even the night before. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
More Delicious Potato Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a potato lover like me, you’re going to adore these other recipes! Have you tried CREAMY POTATO SOUP? It’s pure comfort in a bowl, especially on a chilly evening. And for something a little more indulgent, you can’t go wrong with CHEESY RANCH POTATOES. They’re perfect for potlucks or game day gatherings. If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast or brunch option, the SAUSAGE POTATO CASSEROLE is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. And don’t forget about the ease of Crockpot Potato Soup! It’s an effortless way to enjoy a classic favorite.
Craving More Garlic Parmesan Goodness?
If you’re obsessed with the garlic parmesan flavor combination, like I am, you HAVE to try my Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Sauce. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite. And for another effortless crockpot option, check out the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken. It’s incredibly versatile and can be served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Seriously, you can’t go wrong with anything garlic parmesan!
Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Here’s the full recipe, all in one place for easy reference!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 lbs Yukon gold or red potatoes, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- ½ cup melted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or more to taste)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus ¼ cup for garnish
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried parsley, plus fresh parsley for garnish
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the chopped potatoes in the bottom of your crockpot.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the potatoes.
- In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and dried parsley.
- Pour the garlic parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken and potatoes.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the potatoes and sauce.
- Stir in the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! My absolute favorite Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes recipe. I truly believe this will become a staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, give it a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And don’t forget to share your creations with me – I can’t wait to see what you come up with! Happy cooking!
What type of potatoes are recommended for this recipe, and why?
The recipe recommends Yukon gold or red potatoes because they hold their shape well in the crockpot, but you can use your favorite variety.
How can I prevent the chicken from becoming dry while cooking in the crockpot?
Avoid overcooking the chicken by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I add other vegetables to this Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes recipe?
Yes, you can add vegetables like broccoli florets, green beans, or sliced carrots during the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
How long can I store leftovers of this dish?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes Perfection
Equipment
- Crockpot (slow cooker)
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Paper towels
- Two forks
- Meat thermometer
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 lbs Yukon gold or red potatoes, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- ½ cup melted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus ¼ cup for garnish
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried parsley, plus fresh parsley for garnish
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the chopped potatoes in the bottom of your crockpot.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the potatoes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and dried parsley.
- Pour the garlic parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken and potatoes, ensuring everything is nicely coated.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the potatoes and sauce.
- Stir in the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.