This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a cozy dish that practically makes itself! Tender chicken and hearty potatoes soak up a yummy garlic parmesan sauce. What’s not to love?
I adore how the slow cooker does all the work while I kick back. It fills your kitchen with the best aroma ever! Plus, clean-up is a breeze. Just yum all around!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for their rich flavor and tenderness. If you prefer, you can use boneless chicken or even chicken breasts, but they might cook faster, so keep an eye on them.
Baby Potatoes: These are perfect for their creamy texture. If you can’t find baby potatoes, you could use regular potatoes cut into chunks or even sweet potatoes for a fun twist. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you change the type of potato.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, Pecorino Romano works well, or you can use a pre-grated version, even though fresh tastes best!
Olive Oil: Olive oil enhances the dish’s flavor, but any oil, like avocado or canola, can be a good substitute. Just avoid using a strong-flavored oil, as it might overpower the other ingredients.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Turns Out Tender?
The key to tender chicken is low and slow cooking! Using a crockpot allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook gently. Here’s how you ensure success:
- Start with quality chicken thighs for the best flavor.
- Season the chicken well, rubbing in the olive oil, salt, and spices thoroughly.
- Layer your vegetables properly in the crockpot so they cook evenly under the chicken.
- Always make sure to cover the crockpot tightly to retain moisture.
- Stick to the recommended cooking time and check for doneness with a meat thermometer (should reach 165°F).
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
For the Seasonings and Garnish:
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus cooking time. You can cook it on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours in the crockpot. Perfect for a busy day when you want a warm meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken thighs in a large bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over them, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands to rub the seasoning into the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. This will add amazing flavor!
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In the bottom of your crockpot, layer the halved baby potatoes and sliced onion. Spread them out evenly so they cook nicely and don’t stick together.
3. Add the Chicken:
Now it’s time to nestle the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the potatoes and onions in the crockpot. It’s like giving the chicken a comfy bed!
4. Mix the Garlic and Broth:
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and chicken broth. Once mixed, pour this delicious mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the crockpot. This will infuse everything with wonderful garlic flavor as it cooks.
5. Cooking Time:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked, and the potatoes tender when done. You’ll love the smell that fills your kitchen!
6. Add the Parmesan:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to eat, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and potatoes. Close the lid and let it sit so the cheese can melt beautifully into the dish.
7. Garnish and Serve:
When it’s finally time to eat, take off the lid and give everything a gentle stir. Garnish with the freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your tasty garlic Parmesan chicken and potatoes!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless chicken thighs, but reduce the cooking time slightly as they cook faster. Aim for about 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No worries! You can use garlic powder or minced garlic from a jar as a substitute. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove or follow any jarred garlic instructions. Just add it to the chicken broth mixture before pouring it over the chicken and veggies.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Place in freezer-safe containers, and they can last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Add Other Veggies to This Dish?
Yes, feel free to get creative! Carrots, bell peppers, or green beans can be excellent additions. Just cut them into even sizes to ensure they cook through at the same rate as the potatoes and chicken. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly for denser vegetables.
