If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal that practically cooks itself, you are going to love this Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe. It brings together tender chicken thighs infused with garlic and Italian herbs, perfectly paired with soft, buttery baby potatoes all smothered in a cheesy Parmesan coating. This dish not only fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma but also guarantees a satisfying plate of rich, savory goodness with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this recipe will soon become your go-to dinner favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the heart of this Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe. Each component plays a special role, adding layers of flavor, texture, and color that come together beautifully in the slow cooker.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for juicier meat, or breasts for leaner protein.
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved: These small potatoes roast down to creamy perfection and absorb all the garlic-herb flavors.
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth that makes the dish irresistibly savory.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key for that rich, aromatic punch.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory base without overpowering the garlic.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings the perfect Mediterranean herb blend for authentic flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds subtle smoky warmth and a beautiful color.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a mild kick that complements the garlic.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Keeps everything tender and adds a fruity richness.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Prevents dryness while infusing gentle flavor and moisture.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright contrast to the hearty dish.
- Optional: extra Parmesan for topping: Perfect for an extra cheesy finish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Parmesan Garlic Seasoning
Start by mixing the Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This flavorful blend is the secret behind the dish’s aromatic, cheesy, and herb-infused taste that clings beautifully to both the chicken and potatoes.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken and Potatoes
Place your choice of boneless, skinless chicken and halved baby potatoes evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker. Arranging them well lets the flavors meld and ensures even cooking during the long, gentle simmer.
Step 3: Add Olive Oil and Seasoning
Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and potatoes to lock in moisture and add richness. Then, sprinkle the Parmesan garlic seasoning mixture evenly on top, making sure every piece is coated with those incredible flavors that will develop beautifully as they cook low and slow.
Step 4: Pour in Chicken Broth
Carefully pour chicken broth around the sides of the slow cooker, avoiding washing the seasoning off the top. This small amount of liquid keeps the chicken and potatoes tender without making the dish watery or losing that beloved cheesy crust.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic on low for 6 to 7 hours, or speed things up with 3 to 4 hours on high. The chicken will become tender beyond belief, and the potatoes will soak up all those savory flavors, making every bite a little piece of comfort food heaven.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After cooking, serve this dish hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for that irresistible golden touch, and get ready to enjoy a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple but vibrant garnish that lightens the rich Parmesan and garlic flavors while adding a burst of color to the dish. If you want to go a step further, a scattering of extra grated Parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon can elevate the flavors and brighten the overall palate.
Side Dishes
This dish is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a fresh green salad, some steamed vegetables, or crusty bread can round out the meal wonderfully. A crisp Caesar salad or roasted asparagus would complement the hearty flavors perfectly without overpowering the main course.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, try arranging the chicken and potatoes on a large serving platter and sprinkle with edible flowers or microgreens alongside the parsley. Or serve it family-style in the slow cooker directly at the table, letting everyone scoop their own portion garnished with fresh herbs and extra cheese.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld further overnight, making for an equally delightful meal the next day. Just make sure to cool it before sealing to keep freshness intact.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To maintain texture and flavor, separate the potatoes and chicken if possible, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help keep the chicken moist and the potatoes from drying out during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While thighs stay juicier and more flavorful through slow cooking, chicken breasts work fine too—just be careful not to overcook them or they may dry out. Lower the cooking time slightly if using breasts.
Do I have to peel the baby potatoes?
No peeling is necessary. The baby potatoes have tender skins that become deliciously soft when slow cooked and add a wonderful texture and earthiness to the dish.
Is it possible to make this recipe in an instant pot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot using the slow cook function or by pressure cooking for about 10 minutes with a natural release. Just be mindful that potatoes cook very quickly in pressure mode.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Adding carrots, green beans, or even mushrooms can enhance the dish with extra textures and flavors. Make sure to cut them into sizes that will cook evenly with the potatoes.
What if I don’t have chicken broth? Can I substitute it?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, water with a bit of salt works in a pinch. You can also use vegetable broth or a splash of white wine for an even richer taste.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is a total game-changer for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. It’s the perfect balance of effortless cooking and impressive, comforting flavors that bring everyone to the table with smiles. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to slow cook chicken and potatoes with a Parmesan twist!
Print
Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes recipe offers a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal, combining tender chicken thighs or breasts with baby potatoes, infused with a rich blend of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian seasonings. Perfect for an easy, hands-off dinner that cooks slowly to develop deep flavors and juicy textures.
Ingredients
Chicken and Potatoes
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
Seasoning Mix
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: extra Parmesan for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a robust and flavorful seasoning blend.
- Arrange chicken and potatoes: Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts along with the halved baby potatoes evenly into the slow cooker base, ensuring an even layer for consistent cooking.
- Add oil and seasoning: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the chicken and potatoes to keep them moist and flavorful. Then sprinkle the prepared Parmesan seasoning mixture evenly over all the ingredients for maximum flavor absorption.
- Pour chicken broth: Gently pour the chicken broth around the sides of the slow cooker, avoiding pouring directly over the seasoning layer, to maintain moisture and richness during slow cooking.
- Slow cook the meal: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the low setting for 6 to 7 hours, or alternatively on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked, and the potatoes are soft and cooked through.
- Serve and garnish: Once cooked, serve the chicken and potatoes hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and, if desired, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For best results, use evenly sized baby potatoes to ensure uniform cooking.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Adjust seasoning quantities according to taste preferences, especially salt and pepper.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If using chicken breasts, consider monitoring cooking time as breasts may cook faster than thighs.
