Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

This Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes recipe is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a comforting meal any night of the week. With minimal prep time, this dish features tender chicken and flavorful potatoes enveloped in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you relax or attend to other tasks.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The rich garlic Parmesan sauce elevates the dish, making it a hearty meal that satisfies cravings.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize with your choice of vegetables or swap in different proteins based on what you have on hand.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness of this dish, making it a hit for family dinners.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy tasty leftovers that reheat well for lunch or dinner the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for low-and-slow cooking, ensuring tender meat and perfectly cooked potatoes.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining sauces and marinades before adding them to your slow cooker.
• Whisk: Essential for blending sauces smoothly; no clumps here!

Ingredients

To create this delightful dish, gather the following 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

For Topping (Optional)

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

How to Make Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

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: Add Chicken

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

Step 3: Make the Sauce

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

Step 4: Combine Everything

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

Step 5: Cook It Up!

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 and optional grated Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking covered until cheese is melted.

Step 7: Serve

Sprinkle with 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 Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes can be both fun and creative. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides or garnishes. Here are some delicious ways to serve it.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
• Thyme or Rosemary: Use fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch that enhances the dish.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crisp contrast to the creamy chicken and potatoes.
• Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the meal.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the savory sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls offer a comforting addition to the meal.

Include Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch.
• Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus complements the dish with its earthy flavor.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

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

• Use uniform potato sizes: Cut potatoes into even chunks to ensure they cook at the same rate.
• Brown chicken first (optional): Searing the chicken in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker can enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust seasoning as needed: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spices based on your preference.
• Keep the lid closed: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking; this helps maintain consistent heat and moisture.
• Experiment with sauces: Feel free to try different creamy sauces that fit your taste, like alfredo or ranch dressing.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to rest for about 10 minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

Adding side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this comforting dish.

1. Garlic Green Beans
   Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic make a vibrant, flavorful side.

2. Creamy Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the main dish.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables creates a nutritious contrast.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide an earthy flavor that pairs well with chicken.

5. Mashed Cauliflower
   This low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes offers a creamy texture without heaviness.

6. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob brings sweetness and complements savory flavors wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken and potatoes can lead to bland flavors. Always ensure you season both layers well for a delicious dish.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient liquid can cause the dish to stick or burn. Ensure you have enough sauce and broth in your slow cooker.
• Layering incorrectly: Placing chicken on the bottom can lead to uneven cooking. Always place potatoes at the bottom, followed by chicken, for even heat distribution.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking on High for too long can lead to overcooked ingredients. Follow the recommended cooking times for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring frequently until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes?

You can pair this dish with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I customize Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies like broccoli or carrots during cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or lamb if you’re looking for variety.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Ensure that your creamy Parmesan garlic sauce is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is a comforting, cheesy dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any weeknight dinner. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Explore different customization options by adding seasonal vegetables or trying various sauces!