Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

This Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With minimal prep time, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy meal that combines tender chicken and flavorful potatoes. Ideal for any occasion, this recipe satisfies cravings while also being straightforward to make. The savory garlic Parmesan sauce takes this dish over the top, making it a must-try for cheese lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Only 15 minutes of prep time means you can get dinner started without a hassle.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a rich, savory sauce that enhances the chicken and potatoes.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for family dinners or potlucks; this dish is sure to impress guests.
• Comforting Dish: Hearty potatoes and tender chicken create a warm, satisfying meal ideal for chilly evenings.
• Easy Cleanup: Cooking in a slow cooker means less mess and fewer dishes to wash afterward.

Tools and Preparation

For this slow cooker recipe, having the right tools makes all the difference. Ensure you have these essentials ready to whip up your meal with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is crucial for evenly cooking the chicken and potatoes while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring your sauce is well-mixed before pouring it over the chicken and potatoes.

Ingredients

This slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes is so quick to prep with garlic Parmesan sauce for a comforting, cheesy chicken and potatoes dish.

For the 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

For the Chicken

• 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

For Topping

• 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 Potatoes

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

Step 2: Add Chicken

Place 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 Parmesan garlic sauce and water. Make sure it’s well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and potatoes evenly.

Step 5: Cook

Cover the slow cooker. Cook on High for 4 hours or on 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 cheese and optional Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking covered until melted.

Step 7: Serve

Sprinkle with optional fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

Serving your slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes can elevate the dining experience for your family and guests. Here are some delicious ideas to enhance this comforting dish.

With a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers pairs well for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the cheesy flavors of the chicken.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Fluffy Rice: Serving the chicken and potatoes over fluffy white or brown rice absorbs all the savory sauce.
• Quinoa: For a healthier option, quinoa is protein-packed and adds a nutty flavor.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls make for an excellent choice to accompany the meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil Leaves: Adding fresh basil can bring out the Italian essence of this dish.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

Perfecting your slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes can turn an already great recipe into an unforgettable meal. Here are some handy tips.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality chicken breasts and fresh potatoes enhances the overall flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust salt and pepper based on your taste preferences.
• Layer Ingredients Properly: Place potatoes at the bottom to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Check doneness before the specified time; slow cookers can vary in heat intensity.
• Add Cheese Towards End: For melty cheese, add mozzarella during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
• Garnish Before Serving: Top with chopped parsley just before serving for freshness and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

Pairing side dishes with your slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes can round out your meal perfectly. Consider these delightful options.

1. Steamed Broccoli: This nutritious green veggie adds color and balances out the richness of the main dish.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender for a tasty side.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the chicken and potatoes.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a pop of sweetness; grill or boil for best results.
5. Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that offers creaminess without extra calories.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with rice or quinoa, bake them lightly, and serve alongside for added flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking with a slow cooker can be easy, but some common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season your chicken and potatoes can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt, pepper, and spices to enhance taste.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Packing too many ingredients into the cooker can prevent even cooking. Make sure to follow the recipe’s ingredient amounts for best results.
• Not browning the meat: Skipping the step of browning chicken can result in less flavor. If time allows, sear your chicken before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long or not long enough can affect texture. Adhere closely to recommended cooking times for perfectly tender chicken and potatoes.
• Forgetting about liquid: Not adding enough liquid can dry out your meal. Ensure there’s enough sauce or stock for moisture during cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• item Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

• item Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• item Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• item Keep frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover in foil. Bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it cooks thoroughly before serving. You may need to extend cooking time slightly.

What type of potatoes should I use?

Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well due to their creamy texture when cooked. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets as they may turn mushy.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes dairy-free, substitute cheese with a dairy-free alternative or omit it completely while still enjoying great flavors.

How do I customize this recipe?

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like carrots or green beans. Experiment with different seasonings for varied tastes!

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is not only comforting but also versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!