Name: Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 190 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1.5 pounds red potatoes, chopped; 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 0.75 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded; 3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt (or more); 0.5 teaspoon pepper; 0.75 cup low-sodium chicken broth (for Instant Pot)

Introduction to Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes

When it comes to convenient, satisfying meals, slow-cooked dishes hold a special place in our hearts. The allure of crockpot meals lies in their simplicity — toss in your ingredients and let time work its magic. This method produces tender, juicy meats and deeply infused flavors without constant supervision, making it a perfect choice for busy young professionals.

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a fantastic example of how effortless and delicious crockpot meals can be. This dish combines succulent pieces of chicken with creamy Parmesan cheese and hearty red potatoes, creating a well-rounded dinner that everyone will love. Plus, the ease of prep makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or lazy weekends when you want something hearty but don’t have the energy for complex cooking.

Why spend hours in the kitchen when you can let the slow cooker do the work for you? As someone who frequently juggles work and social commitments, I find that recipes like this one help me maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor or time. With just ten minutes of prep and minimal cleanup, you can enjoy a delectable, homemade meal that feels luxurious yet is incredibly simple to prepare. For more tips on using your crockpot, you might find this guide helpful.

Ingredients for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes

If you're ready to whip up a delicious and satisfying meal, let’s dive into the essential ingredients for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes.

Essential ingredients

To create this flavorful dish, you'll need the following staples:

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 ½ pounds red potatoes, chopped for that perfect texture
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated for richness
¾ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded for topping
3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced—because, let’s be honest, garlic makes everything better
1 tablespoon garlic powder, adding that depth of flavor
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning to bring a bit of Mediterranean flair
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil to keep things nice and moist
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon pepper
¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth (for Instant Pot users)

Optional add-ins

Feel free to customize your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes with some tasty optional add-ins:

Vegetables like carrots or green beans for added nutrition and color
Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for a pop of freshness
A splash of lemon juice for a zesty twist that can brighten up the flavors

These tweaks can really elevate your dish while keeping it cozy and comforting. Enjoy experimenting!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes

Gather and prepare your ingredients

Let’s kick things off by gathering everything you'll need for this delightful dish. Head to your kitchen and pull out:

2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces)
1 ½ pounds of red potatoes (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
¾ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese
3 to 4 cloves of freshly minced garlic
1 tablespoon of garlic powder
1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon of salt (adjust to your taste)
½ teaspoon of pepper
¾ cup of low-sodium chicken broth

Preparation is key! Wash the potatoes and cut your chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Mix everything in the crockpot

Now that you’re ready, it’s time to mix up those flavors! In your crockpot, add the chicken, chopped potatoes, minced garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir to combine. You want to ensure every piece of chicken and potato is coated in those lovely seasoning flavors. The aroma alone will have your kitchen smelling amazing as it cooks!

Set the crockpot to cook

It's time for the magic to happen! Set your crockpot to cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or on low for 4 to 6 hours, depending on your schedule. This slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and the potatoes to absorb all that garlicky goodness. If you’re busy, this is a great meal to prep in the morning and have ready for dinner!

Finishing touches with Parmesan cheese

Once the cooking time is up, it’s time for the pièce de résistance—adding that shredded Parmesan cheese! Open the lid and sprinkle it on top. If you turn off the crockpot and let it sit for a few minutes, the cheese will melt beautifully into a gooey layer of flavor. Trust me, this is the moment you’ve been waiting for.

Serve and enjoy

After all that deliciousness has melded together, it’s time to serve up your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes. Ladle a generous portion onto your plate, maybe add a side salad for a fresh crunch, and enjoy! This dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Share it with your loved ones—they’re sure to be asking for seconds!

Whether you’re a culinary novice or an experienced cook, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and come back to share your experience!

Variations on Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes

Creamy Garlic Sauce Variation

Want to take your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes to the next level? Try adding a luscious creamy garlic sauce! Simply mix together 8 ounces of cream cheese, 1 cup of heavy cream, and an extra tablespoon of minced garlic before combining with the chicken and potatoes. This adds an indulgent twist, perfect for those cozy nights in.

Vegetarian Option Using Chickpeas

For a healthy vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with canned chickpeas. Just rinse and drain the chickpeas, then toss them with the same garlic, Parmesan, and potatoes. Not only does this make a delicious plant-based meal, but chickpeas provide a hearty dose of protein and fiber. It's a win-win!

For more ideas on incorporating beans into your meals, check out Eat Right.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes

Choosing the Right Chicken Cut

When making Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes, selecting the right chicken is crucial. While boneless skinless chicken breasts offer a lean option, using thighs can provide a juicier, more flavorful result due to their higher fat content. Experiment with both cuts to see which one your palate prefers!

Tips for Optimal Slow Cooking

To ensure your dish turns out just right, layer your ingredients wisely. Start with the potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot for even cooking. Also, resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking; doing so can extend the cooking time and disrupt the slow cooking process. Lastly, feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste as the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes cooks.

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes

Suggested sides and pairings

When serving your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes, consider sides that complement the creamy, savory flavors. Fresh steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli add color and freshness. A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, creamy coleslaw or buttery corn on the cob could also work beautifully.

Creative serving ideas

To elevate your dining experience, plate the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes on a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This will soak up the delicious garlic Parmesan sauce. For a rustic touch, serve it family-style in a cast-iron skillet, encouraging everyone to dig in! Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. And for a twist, serve with a side of crusty bread to mop up that cheesy goodness!

You can explore more side dish ideas in this piece for a well-rounded meal.

Time Breakdown for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes

Preparation time

You only need about 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients for this delectable dish. Simply chop the potatoes, mince the garlic, and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Quick and easy!

Cooking time

The cooking time is where the magic happens! You can let your slow cooker work its wonders in about 2 to 3 hours on high, or if you prefer a longer cook, set it to low for 4 to 6 hours.

Total time

In just 3 hours and 10 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The hands-off nature of the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes means you can enjoy time with your loved ones while it cooks!

For more tips on perfecting your time management in the kitchen, check out this resource on efficient cooking.

Nutritional Facts for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes

Calories per serving

Each serving of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes delivers about 518 calories. This makes it a hearty dish perfect for those cozy evenings after a long day.

Protein content

Packed with approximately 65.1 grams of protein per serving, this recipe is an excellent source of lean protein, making it a great option for muscle repair and growth.

Sodium levels

While flavor-packed, be mindful of the 671.9 mg of sodium per serving. If you're managing your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium chicken broth and adjusting the salt to suit your dietary needs.

For more detailed nutritional insights, you can refer to health resources like NutritionData or USDA FoodData for additional information. Staying informed about what you eat can help you create balanced meals and enjoy them guilt-free!

FAQ about Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds great flavor and texture. Consider tossing in some carrots, green beans, or bell peppers. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and include them in the slow cooker along with the chicken and potatoes. They’ll soak up all the delicious garlic and Parmesan goodness!

How to store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers from this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes, simply transfer the cooled dish into airtight containers. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’re looking to keep it longer, feel free to freeze it for up to three months. Reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop for a delicious quick meal.

Can I adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can easily adapt the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes recipe for the Instant Pot! Just follow the provided instructions, changing the cook time to 10 minutes on high pressure. Make sure to include the low-sodium chicken broth to create steam. The result will be just as flavorful and comforting! For more Instant Pot tips, check out this guide on pressure cooking.

Conclusion on Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes

In summary, Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes is a delightful, hassle-free dish that elevates weeknight dinners with minimal effort. Its savory flavors and creamy texture make it an instant hit for any family gathering. Give it a try, and enjoy the warmth it brings to your table!