Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

This Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is a perfect dish for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. With its creamy, cheesy flavor and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite. The simplicity of the slow cooker allows you to prepare this dish with minimal effort, making it ideal for meal prep or a quick dinner solution. Enjoy the comforting taste of garlic and Parmesan as it fills your home with an irresistible aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it!
• Rich Flavor: The creamy Parmesan garlic sauce delivers a deliciously rich taste that complements the chicken and potatoes beautifully.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and carbohydrates from potatoes, this dish is both hearty and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make this recipe come together seamlessly, you’ll need just a few essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This is the star of the show, allowing for hands-off cooking that makes food tender and flavorful.
• Mixing Bowl: Useful for combining sauces and seasonings before adding them to your main ingredients.
• Whisk: Helps ensure that your sauce is smooth and well-combined, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes, gather these ingredients:

For the Chicken and Potatoes

• 2 pounds potatoes, cut in 1 1/2 -2 inch chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts

For the Sauce

• 1 cup creamy Parmesan garlic sauce, such as Buffalo Wild Wings® Parmesan Garlic
• 1/2 cup water or chicken stock

Toppings (Optional)

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, or to taste (optional)

How to Make Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Combine potatoes, olive oil, 3/4 teaspoons salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and paprika in the bottom of a slow cooker. Stir until well coated.

Step 2: Layer the Chicken

Add chicken pieces on top of the potato mixture. Sprinkle with remaining salt and pepper.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the creamy Parmesan garlic sauce and water until well incorporated.

Step 4: Add Sauce to Slow Cooker

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and potatoes in the slow cooker.

Step 5: Cook

Cover and cook on High for 4 hours or Low for 6 hours until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Add Cheese

During the last 20 minutes of cooking, add mozzarella and optional Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking covered until melted.

Step 7: Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley to serve. Enjoy your comforting meal!

This easy-to-follow recipe will have you enjoying a delicious dinner in no time!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

Serving your Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delicious ways to present this comforting dish.

Family Style

• Serve directly from the slow cooker for a casual dining experience. Guests can help themselves, making it a great choice for gatherings.

With Fresh Green Salad

• Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens balances the richness of the chicken and potatoes.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the chicken and potatoes over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This adds an extra layer of texture and makes the dish more filling.

With Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread on the side. Guests can use it to scoop up the cheesy sauce, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, sprinkle additional mozzarella or Parmesan on top before serving. Melted cheese enhances the flavor profile and creates an eye-catching presentation.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

To ensure your Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use uniform potato sizes: Cutting potatoes into similar sizes ensures even cooking. Aim for 1 1/2 – 2 inch chunks for best results.
• Check chicken doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally. This guarantees safety while achieving tender meat.
• Layer ingredients correctly: Start with potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by chicken on top. This prevents burning and promotes even cooking.
• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to customize salt and pepper levels based on personal taste preferences. A little extra seasoning can enhance flavors significantly.
• Add vegetables: Consider adding vegetables like carrots or green beans during cooking for added nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A simple side that adds vibrant color and nutrients, steamed broccoli complements the creamy dish beautifully.
2. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce, garlic bread is an easy addition that everyone loves.
3. Roasted Asparagus
   Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness, providing a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and potatoes.
4. Cauliflower Rice
   A lighter alternative to regular rice, cauliflower rice absorbs flavors well and adds a healthy twist to your meal.
5. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast in texture, balancing out the creamy chicken dish effectively.
6. Mixed Greens Salad
   Toss together mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light dressing for a fresh complement that cleanses the palate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will ensure your Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes turns out perfectly every time.

• Overcrowding the slow cooker: This can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure not to stack too many ingredients, allowing space for steam.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your chicken and potatoes can result in bland flavors. Always add salt, pepper, and spices to enhance taste.
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient liquid can cause the dish to dry out. Ensure you use the right amount of sauce or broth for moisture.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long or too short can affect texture. Stick to the recommended cooking times for best results.
• Not adding cheese at the right time: Adding cheese too early can make it rubbery. Wait until the last 20 minutes of cooking for optimal meltiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the dish fresh.

Freezing Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

• Duration: Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb based on your preference.

How do I customize the flavors?

Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different cheese varieties.

What side dishes pair well with Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes?

Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that complements this hearty dish.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Its creamy sauce and cheesy goodness make it adaptable; feel free to explore different vegetables or seasonings. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!