Imagine coming home after a long day to the aroma of savory garlic and parmesan wafting through the air, promising a comforting and delicious meal. Forget slaving over a hot stove – with this recipe for Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes, you can have a hearty, flavorful dinner ready with minimal effort. We’re about to unlock a weeknight dinner champion that will become a family favorite, I promise!
Gathering Your Garlic Parmesan Goodness
Here’s what you need to create this masterpiece. Don’t worry if you don’t have *everything* – we can make substitutions! I’ll guide you through.
For the Chicken & Potatoes:
- 2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Can be fresh or frozen (see notes below).
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold Potatoes: These hold their shape beautifully, but Russets will work in a pinch.
- 1/2 cup Chicken Broth: Low sodium is best so you can control the salt.
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil: Adds flavor and helps things not stick.
- 4 cloves Garlic: Minced finely – fresh is best!
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: The real stuff, please!
- 2 tablespoons Italian Seasoning: Or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Because you can NEVER have too much garlic.
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder: Adds depth of flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste!
For the Optional Garlic Parmesan Sauce (Highly Recommended!):
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream: For a rich and creamy sauce.
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: More cheese is always a good idea.
- 2 tablespoons Butter: Unsalted, so you can control the salt.
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch: To thicken the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Yep, more garlic!
- Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes: For a tiny kick (optional).
Step-by-Step to Crockpot Chicken Bliss
Let’s get cooking! Don’t be intimidated – it’s even easier than it looks.
Preparing the Ingredients:
- Wash and chop your potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Consistency is key!
- If using frozen chicken breasts, make sure they are separated.
- Mince your garlic. I swear by a garlic press, but a sharp knife works too!
Layering the Crockpot:
- Drizzle the olive oil into the bottom of your crockpot. This helps prevent sticking.
- Add the chopped potatoes to the crockpot, spreading them in an even layer.
- Place the chicken breasts on top of the potatoes.
Seasoning the Magic:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and potatoes.
Crockpot Cooking Times:
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking times can vary depending on your crockpot, so check for doneness. The chicken should be cooked through and the potatoes should be tender. Use a meat thermometer! 165°F (74°C) is the magic number for chicken.
Making the Optional Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- About 30 minutes before the end of cooking time, if you’re making the sauce, whisk together the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, butter, cornstarch, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small saucepan.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and is smooth. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Serving and Enjoying:
- Once the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks.
- Pour the optional garlic parmesan sauce over the chicken and potatoes in the crockpot.
- Stir everything together to coat evenly.
- Serve hot and garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley (optional).
Why This Recipe Works (And How to Make it Even Better!)
Okay, so why is this dish so darn good? It’s all about the flavor layering! The Italian seasoning combined with the garlic and parmesan creates a savory, comforting profile that everyone loves. Plus, the crockpot does all the work, tenderizing the chicken and infusing the potatoes with flavor. But let’s dive deeper into the secrets to truly knock this recipe out of the park.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
I mentioned Yukon Golds earlier, but let’s elaborate! Their waxy texture means they hold their shape during long cooking times, preventing them from becoming mushy. Russets, on the other hand, can get a bit soft, but they are still delicious! If you’re using Russets, consider cutting them into larger chunks to help them retain their form.
The Chicken Dilemma: Fresh vs. Frozen
Using frozen chicken is totally fine! I do it all the time. Just make sure the breasts aren’t stuck together in a giant clump, as this can affect cooking time and evenness. If they are frozen solid, you might need to add an extra hour to the cooking time on low. Always, always, ALWAYS use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Perfecting the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
This sauce is optional, but honestly, it elevates the dish to a whole new level. The key is to whisk constantly while it’s heating to prevent any lumps from forming. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth. If it’s too thin, whisk in a little more cornstarch mixed with cold water (a “slurry”).
Spice it Up!
Want to add a little kick? A pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce is a great way to do it. You could also add some chopped jalapenos to the crockpot along with the potatoes. Or, for a sweeter heat, try a drizzle of honey into the sauce.
Serving Suggestions: More Than Just a Main Course
This Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes is a complete meal in itself, but it’s also incredibly versatile! Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:
- With a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
- Over Rice or Pasta: Spoon the chicken and potatoes over cooked rice or pasta for a heartier meal. This is especially good if you have extra sauce! You might also be interested in GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN PASTA.
- In a Sandwich: Shred the chicken and pile it onto a toasted roll with some of the potatoes and sauce for a delicious and easy sandwich.
- As a Filling for Stuffed Peppers: Use the chicken and potatoes as a filling for bell peppers, then bake them in the oven until tender.
Crockpot Clean-Up Crew: Tips and Tricks
Nobody likes doing dishes, right? Here are some tips to make crockpot cleanup a breeze:
- Use a Crockpot Liner: These disposable liners are a lifesaver! They prevent food from sticking to the crockpot and make cleanup super easy.
- Soak the Crockpot: If you don’t use a liner, fill the crockpot with hot, soapy water immediately after serving the food. Let it soak for a few hours (or overnight) to loosen any stuck-on bits.
- Baking Soda Scrub: For stubborn stains, make a paste of baking soda and water and scrub the crockpot with a non-abrasive sponge.
More Garlic Parmesan Goodness To Explore!
If you are a lover of all things garlic parmesan (and who isn’t?), then you simply *must* try these other amazing recipes! Imagine sinking your teeth into flavorful CREAMY GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN. Or how about some easy GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN SKEWERS? I also can’t stop making GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN POTATO HEAVEN, it is pure comfort food. For the ultimate crockpot experience try Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes, it’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights!
Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Dinner
There you have it! Your foolproof guide to making Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes. I know you’re going to love this recipe as much as my family does. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights. So, fire up that crockpot and get ready for a meal that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure they are separated and not stuck together in a clump, as this can affect cooking time and evenness. If they are frozen solid, you might need to add an extra hour to the cooking time on low, and always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
What kind of potatoes are best for this crockpot recipe?
Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended because their waxy texture helps them hold their shape during the long cooking time. Russet potatoes can also be used, but consider cutting them into larger chunks to prevent them from becoming too soft.
The garlic parmesan sauce is optional, but what can I do if it’s too thick or too thin?
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth. If it’s too thin, whisk in a little more cornstarch mixed with cold water (a “slurry”).
What are some serving suggestions for this dish?
This dish can be served with a side salad, over rice or pasta, in a sandwich, or as a filling for stuffed peppers.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Perfection 2025
Equipment
- Crockpot (slow cooker)
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Garlic press or knife
- Small saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Meat thermometer
- Two forks
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder for sauce
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Wash and chop the potatoes into 1-inch cubes.
- If using frozen chicken breasts, ensure they are separated.
- Mince the garlic.
- Drizzle olive oil into the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add the chopped potatoes to the crockpot, spreading them in an even layer.
- Place the chicken breasts on top of the potatoes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and potatoes.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C) and the potatoes are tender.
- About 30 minutes before the end of cooking time, if making the sauce, whisk together the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, butter, cornstarch, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small saucepan.
- Heat the sauce over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and is smooth (about 5-7 minutes).
- Once the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks.
- Pour the optional garlic parmesan sauce over the chicken and potatoes in the crockpot.
- Stir everything together to coat evenly.
- Serve hot and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley (optional).