Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Making Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort. This dish combines tender chicken breasts and flavorful baby potatoes, all infused with the rich taste of garlic and parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe offers convenience without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply feeding your family on a busy weeknight, you’ll find this recipe satisfies all occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can set it and forget it.
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of garlic and parmesan creates an irresistible taste that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Meal: This recipe can be served as a main dish or paired with your favorite sides.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the delicious flavors, making it suitable for everyone at the table.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Great for batch cooking; leftovers reheat well without losing flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To make Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker (crockpot)
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker (crockpot): This tool allows for easy, hands-off cooking while developing deep flavors over time.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to prepare your ingredients efficiently.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes cutting chicken and potatoes quick and safe.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for perfect results every time.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Potatoes
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
For Flavoring
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by washing the baby potatoes thoroughly under running water. Cut them in half and set aside. Mince the garlic cloves finely.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Rub each chicken breast with olive oil. Next, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
Step 3: Layer Ingredients in Crockpot
Place the halved potatoes at the bottom of your crockpot. Afterward, position the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the potatoes.
Step 4: Add Broth
Pour the chicken broth over both the chicken and potatoes. Ensure everything is well coated to keep it moist during cooking.
Step 5: Sprinkle Garlic and Cheese
Evenly distribute the minced garlic over the chicken breasts. Then add grated parmesan cheese on top to create a flavorful crust as it cooks.
Step 6: Cook It Up
Cover your crockpot with its lid. Set it to cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The potatoes should also be fork-tender.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken and potatoes from the crockpot. Spoon any remaining sauce over them for added flavor.
Step 8: Garnish
For an appealing finish, chop fresh parsley if desired and sprinkle it over your dish before serving. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Serving Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes can turn a simple dish into a delightful meal perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious recipe.
With a Fresh Salad
- A crisp green salad pairs well with the savory flavors of the chicken. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Serving the chicken and potatoes over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa adds texture and makes for a hearty meal.
In Wraps or Tacos
- Shred the chicken and serve it in wraps or tacos with your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or cheese for a fun twist.
With Crusty Bread
- A side of crusty bread complements the dish perfectly, allowing you to soak up the flavorful sauce.
As Leftovers
- Enjoy the leftovers the next day! The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated.
How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Perfecting Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes can elevate your cooking experience. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality parmesan cheese enhance flavor significantly.
- Adjust seasoning: Feel free to tweak the salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Check cooking times: Make sure to monitor the cooking time based on your crockpot model; some cook faster than others.
- Let it rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.
- Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can give an aromatic touch.
- Add vegetables: Toss in other vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Pairing side dishes with Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes can enhance your meal. Consider these delightful options:
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients; steam lightly for best results.
- Caesar Salad: This classic salad provides a creamy contrast that complements the dish well.
- Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil makes for an elegant side.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing bite that balances the rich flavors of the main dish.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with savory chicken, making them an excellent choice.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn is an easy side that adds sweetness and complements any meal.
- Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with veggies provides additional texture without overwhelming the palate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes can be easy, but some common mistakes can affect the outcome.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking for too long can make the chicken dry. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Not Seasoning Enough: Skipping seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you season the chicken and potatoes thoroughly with salt and spices.
- Using Whole Potatoes: Whole baby potatoes take longer to cook. Halving them helps achieve fork-tender results.
- Ignoring the Broth Quantity: Not adding enough broth may lead to a dry dish. Use the recommended amount to keep everything moist.
- Skipping the Garnish: Garnishes add flavor and visual appeal. Don’t skip fresh parsley or any other toppings for that extra touch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
- Portion out into freezer-safe containers.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but increase the cooking time by about an hour on low heat.
What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes?
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How can I customize this recipe?
You can add different vegetables like carrots or green beans, or swap out parmesan cheese for another cheese variety.
Is Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The flavors are mild enough for kids while still being delicious for adults.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare all ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge before cooking.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is a delightful meal that combines comfort food with ease of preparation. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs. Give it a try and enjoy a cozy dinner that everyone will love!
Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the warmth of a home-cooked meal with Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes. This easy, one-pot dish combines tender chicken breasts with flavorful baby potatoes, all infused with rich garlic and parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work. The delicious flavors meld together beautifully, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Serve it as is or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and halve baby potatoes; mince garlic.
- Rub chicken breasts with olive oil and season with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Layer halved potatoes in the crockpot; place seasoned chicken on top.
- Pour chicken broth over everything; distribute minced garlic and parmesan on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender (165°F internal temperature).
- Carefully serve with any remaining sauce; garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (about 8 oz)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
