Discover the Best Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Overview of the Recipe

Get ready to experience the mouthwatering combination of tender, juicy chicken and creamy, buttery potatoes with our Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes recipe. This easy-to-prepare dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. The slow cooking process infuses the chicken and potatoes with a rich, garlic-infused flavor that will have your family coming back for seconds. Plus, the addition of Parmesan cheese creates a delightfully creamy and indulgent sauce that ties the entire dish together.

Table of Contents

Slow cooking is the secret to achieving maximum flavor and tenderness in this recipe. By allowing the ingredients to simmer together for several hours, the chicken becomes fall-off-the-bone tender, while the potatoes soak up all the delicious juices and seasonings. The result is a meal that’s both satisfying and packed with irresistible taste.

Ingredients Breakdown

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – The star of the dish, chicken provides a lean protein that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce and tender potatoes.
• 1.5 lbs baby potatoes (halved if large) – Small, bite-sized potatoes are the perfect complement to the chicken, soaking up all the flavorful juices.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is the key to the irresistible flavor profile, infusing the dish with its warm, pungent aroma.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best results) – Parmesan cheese creates a creamy, cheesy sauce that coats the chicken and potatoes.
• 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch or Italian dressing mix – This seasoning blend adds a burst of savory flavor to the dish.
• 1 cup heavy cream or half and half – The creamy dairy component adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – The broth helps to create a flavorful cooking liquid for the chicken and potatoes.
• 2 tablespoons butter – Melted butter adds a luxurious mouthfeel and subtle richness to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Onion powder complements the garlic and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – An extra hit of garlic flavor ensures the dish is bursting with garlicky goodness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Season the dish to your liking with these classic seasonings.
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional) – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.

Preparation Steps

Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is a breeze to prepare, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Step 1: Prep the Slow Cooker

Start by lightly greasing the slow cooker with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange the baby potatoes around the chicken. Sprinkle the minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken and potatoes.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Cheese

Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth over the chicken and potatoes. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and dry dressing mix evenly over the top. Finally, dot the butter over the mixture.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the dish is ready, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve the Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes warm, alongside your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques and Tips

Slow cooking is the secret to the incredible flavor and tenderness of this Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes dish. The long, gentle cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together seamlessly, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with rich, creamy goodness.

Slow Cooking Fundamentals

The key to successful slow cooking is allowing the ingredients to simmer at a low temperature for an extended period. This gentle heat helps to break down the proteins in the chicken, making it incredibly tender and juicy. Additionally, the slow cooking process allows the flavors to fully develop, with the garlic, Parmesan, and seasonings infusing every bite.

Avoiding Common Slow Cooker Mistakes

To ensure your Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes turns out perfectly, it’s important to avoid a few common slow cooker pitfalls. First, be sure not to overcrowd the slow cooker, as this can prevent even cooking. Additionally, be mindful of the amount of liquid you add – too much can result in a watery dish, while too little can lead to dryness. Finally, pay attention to the cooking times, as they may vary depending on your specific slow cooker model.

Suggested Sides and Pairings

Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is a complete and satisfying meal on its own, but it can also be paired with a variety of delicious side dishes to round out the meal.

Complementary Side Dishes

A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing is the perfect accompaniment, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy chicken and potatoes. Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts, also make an excellent pairing, adding color and texture to the plate. For a classic comfort food combination, serve the chicken and potatoes with a side of crusty garlic bread, perfect for sopping up every last drop of the delectable sauce.

Beverage Pairings

When it comes to beverages, Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes pairs well with a variety of options. For a wine pairing, consider a crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, which can complement the creamy sauce and bold flavors. Non-alcoholic options, such as sparkling water or iced tea, also make refreshing choices to balance out the richness of the dish.

Variations and Related Recipes

While the Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes recipe is a delicious classic, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on the dish or explore similar recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds.

Creative Twists on the Main Recipe

For an Italian-inspired twist, try adding sun-dried tomatoes and olives to the slow cooker. The bold flavors of the tomatoes and briny olives will complement the garlic and Parmesan beautifully. Alternatively, you could give the dish a Mexican flair by incorporating salsa and black beans into the mix, creating a Southwestern-style Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes.

Related Recipes to Explore

• Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken
• One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken
• Ranch Chicken and Vegetable Bake

FAQs

How long does chicken have to cook in a crockpot on high?

Chicken breasts or thighs typically need to cook for 3-4 hours on the high setting in a slow cooker to become fully cooked and tender. However, the exact time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces, as well as the specific slow cooker model you are using.

What vegetables should not be added to a slow cooker?

Certain vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and leafy greens, are best added towards the end of the cooking time in a slow cooker. These delicate vegetables can become overcooked and mushy if they are in the slow cooker for the entire cooking process. It’s generally better to add them during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking to preserve their texture and flavor.

Do you need to add water when cooking chicken in a slow cooker?

No, you typically do not need to add water when cooking chicken in a slow cooker. The chicken will release its own juices during the cooking process, which will create a flavorful cooking liquid. In fact, adding too much liquid can result in a watery, less flavorful dish. The key is to use just enough liquid, such as broth or cream, to create a nicely sauced final product.

How long to cook chicken in slow cooker on low reddit?

According to the discussions on Reddit, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs should be cooked in a slow cooker on the low setting for 6-8 hours to achieve tender, juicy results. This extended cooking time allows the chicken to become fall-off-the-bone tender while infusing it with all the delicious flavors of the other ingredients in the slow cooker.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. The combination of tender, juicy chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and buttery potatoes creates a flavor-packed, satisfying meal that the whole family is sure to love. With its easy preparation and hands-off cooking method, this recipe is a weeknight-friendly winner that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. So, fire up your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy the mouthwatering goodness of Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes!

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken
• One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken
• Ranch Chicken and Vegetable Bake

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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