This Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is a cozy, comforting dish that’s packed with flavor! Tender chicken and fluffy potatoes soak up a delicious garlic-parmesan sauce.
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness? I love how simple it is—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Perfect for busy days!
This meal is a great way to have a delicious dinner waiting for you after a long day. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day. Yum! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I use diced chicken breast for its lean protein. If you’re looking for a juicy option, boneless, skinless thighs work well too! You could also try tofu or chickpeas for a meatless version.
Baby Potatoes: Baby potatoes add creaminess. You can swap them for red or Yukon gold potatoes, just cube them smaller for quicker cooking. Sweet potatoes are also a great alternative for added sweetness and nutrition.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds rich flavor. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano is a fantastic choice. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan alternative that gives a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic makes the dish aromatic. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder works in a pinch—1 teaspoon for every clove. If you love garlic like I do, don’t be afraid to add extra!
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth enhances flavor. Vegetable broth is a good swap for a vegetarian option. You can even use water if you’re in a bind; just add extra seasoning for flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken and Potatoes are Perfectly Cooked?
A common challenge with slow cooker recipes is ensuring everything cooks evenly. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Cut chicken and potatoes into similar sizes to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Always add meat at the bottom of the cooker, as it needs more heat.
- Layer the cheese last; it will melt perfectly without overcooking.
- Check doneness by ensuring the chicken reaches 165°F and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Patience is key with slow cooking; resist the urge to peek too often, as it releases heat and prolongs cooking time!
How to Make Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, diced
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, quartered or diced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 4 to 6 hours to cook on low, or 2 to 3 hours on high in your slow cooker. Just set it and forget it, and you’ll have a warm, hearty meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken and Potatoes:
In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, quartered potatoes, olive oil, and minced garlic. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Toss everything together well so the chicken and potatoes are coated evenly in the delicious mixture.
2. Load the Slow Cooker:
Now, transfer that tasty chicken and potato mixture into your slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the top. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese all over everything—this is what makes it super cheesy and yummy!
3. Cook the Dish:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours, or on high heat for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender. No need to rush; just let it do its thing!
4. Combine and Serve:
Once it’s cooked to perfection, gently stir the mixture so that the melted Parmesan cheese coats the chicken and potatoes nicely. Serve the dish hot and don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a lovely touch. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it first for even cooking! To thaw, place the chicken in the fridge overnight or submerge it in a sealed bag in cold water for a quicker method. If you’re in a pinch, you can cook it from frozen, just add an extra hour to the cooking time.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor and can be sprinkled on top at serving. Just remember that the texture may vary slightly with these substitutes.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and potatoes in advance, store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking, or even freeze the raw mixture for up to 3 months. Just make sure to defrost the mixture in the fridge before cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or olive oil when reheating to restore moisture.
