Oh boy, let me tell you, life can get so hectic some days! Between work, errands, and the never-ending list of things to do, dinner sometimes feels like a mountain to climb. That’s why I absolutely adore my crockpot—it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights! One of my all-time favorite recipes is this *crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes*. It’s a dream come true! Just toss everything in, go about your day, and by the time dinner rolls around, you’re greeted with the mouthwatering aroma of tender chicken and flavorful herbs. Trust me, after a long day, there’s nothing better than coming home to a warm, hearty meal that practically cooks itself. Plus, the creamy garlic parmesan sauce? Oh my goodness, it’s the cherry on top of this delicious dinner! You’re going to love it!
Ingredients List
For this delightful *crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes*, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups baby potatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (don’t skimp on this for that amazing flavor!)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Make sure your garlic is freshly minced to really maximize that garlicky goodness. The chicken broth adds moisture and flavor, while the parmesan cheese melts into a creamy sauce that’s just irresistible! You’re going to love how these ingredients work together to create a comforting meal.
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! This *crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes* is super simple and straightforward. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner waiting for you:
- Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they’re spread out a bit so they cook evenly.
- Next, add the halved baby potatoes around the chicken. They’ll soak up all that wonderful flavor as they cook.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth, minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This mixture is going to be your flavorful sauce!
- Pour the garlic parmesan mixture evenly over the chicken and potatoes. Don’t be shy—this is where the magic happens!
- Now, drizzle the olive oil on top to give everything a lovely richness.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. If you’re looking for a thicker sauce, remember to remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking—trust me, it makes a difference!
And that’s it! Just let your crockpot do its thing while you go about your day. When you return, the smell will have you drooling, and dinner will be ready to enjoy. Seriously, it doesn’t get much easier than this!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have everything in the crockpot and be on your way to conquering your day!
- Delicious Flavors: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and Italian seasoning creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your home and a taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the chicken and wholesome baby potatoes, this dish is not only satisfying but also a nutritious choice for dinner.
- Minimal Cleanup: One pot, one meal! You’ll love how easy it is to clean up after a hearty dinner—just a simple wash of the crockpot and you’re done!
- Simplifies Mealtime: This *crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes* is a go-to for busy weeknights, taking the stress out of planning and cooking. Just set it and forget it!
Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it in your weeknight rotation!
Tips for Success
To make your *crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes* turn out perfectly every time, I’ve got some trusty tips to share with you!
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken breasts and good-quality parmesan cheese make a world of difference in flavor. Don’t go for the pre-grated stuff if you can help it—grate your own for that rich, creamy texture!
- Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure your chicken and potatoes have a bit of breathing room in the crockpot. If it’s packed too tightly, they won’t cook as evenly, and we want everything tender and juicy!
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the seasonings to your taste! If you love a bit of heat, throw in some red pepper flakes. If you’re a fan of herbs, fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish!
- Monitor Cooking Time: Depending on your crockpot, cooking times can vary. If it’s your first time making this, check the chicken for doneness a bit earlier than expected. The meat should be cooked through but still juicy and tender.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remember to remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This allows some of the liquid to evaporate and intensify the flavors!
- Mix It Up: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies! Carrots, green beans, or bell peppers can be great additions. Just make sure they’re cut into similar sizes for even cooking!
These little tips will help you create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Happy cooking, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits you!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to mix things up with your *crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes*, I’ve got a few fun ideas for you! The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability, so let your creativity shine!
- Different Cuts of Chicken: While chicken breasts are fantastic, you can also use thighs or drumsticks for a juicier bite. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as dark meat may need a little longer to cook through.
- Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots, green beans, or even bell peppers to amp up the nutrition and color. They’ll soak up all that gorgeous garlic parmesan flavor!
- Switch Up the Cheese: If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, try using grated mozzarella or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for a tangy twist. Each cheese brings a unique flavor profile that can elevate the dish!
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs! Adding a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme can lend a lovely aroma. If you like it zesty, a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can brighten everything up!
- Make It Spicy: For those who enjoy a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the mix. Just a pinch can transform the dish into something with a little heat!
- Change the Potatoes: Swap out baby potatoes for sweet potatoes or even parsnips. They’ll bring their own unique sweetness and flavor to the dish, making it even more interesting!
These variations are super simple to implement and can turn a classic recipe into something new and exciting. Don’t be afraid to play around with flavors and ingredients—cooking should be fun!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers from your *crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes*! If you happen to have any left after dinner (which is a big if, because it’s so good!), here’s what you need to do:
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. This will help keep all those tasty flavors locked in! You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave until warmed through. If you prefer, you can also reheat them in a pot over low heat on the stove. Just stir occasionally to ensure everything heats evenly.
- Maintain Texture: If you notice the sauce has thickened a bit in the fridge, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or a bit of water while reheating. This will help bring back that creamy consistency you love!
But honestly, I doubt you’ll have any leftovers! This dish is just too irresistible. Enjoy every bite, whether it’s fresh out of the crockpot or reheated for lunch the next day!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about what’s in your *crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes*! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving. Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredient choices and portion sizes:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 35g
This meal is not only delicious but also packs a good protein punch, making it a satisfying choice for dinner. Plus, with wholesome ingredients, it fits nicely into a balanced diet. So, you can enjoy your hearty meal guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time. If cooking on low, aim for 8-10 hours. Just be sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
What can I substitute for baby potatoes?
If you don’t have baby potatoes on hand, no problem! You can use regular potatoes, just chop them into smaller chunks. Sweet potatoes also make a fantastic alternative—they’ll add a lovely sweetness to the dish!
Can I make this recipe without garlic?
If garlic isn’t your thing, you can absolutely leave it out! Just know that the dish won’t have that classic garlic flavor. You might want to add a little more Italian seasoning or even a sprinkle of onion powder to still give it some depth!
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it’s no longer pink in the center and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you’re unsure, using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time!
What’s the best way to serve this dish?
This *crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes* is delicious on its own, but feel free to serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. And don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up that creamy sauce!
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes for Busy Nights
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes for busy weeknights
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups baby potatoes
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Add baby potatoes around the chicken.
- In a bowl, mix chicken broth, garlic, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken and potatoes.
- Drizzle olive oil on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: crockpot garlic parmesan chicken, garlic parmesan chicken recipe, easy chicken recipes, weeknight dinners
