Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

This Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish features tender chicken breasts and hearty potatoes smothered in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also creates a warm aroma that fills your home, making it an instant favorite for everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work.
• Flavorful Sauce: The creamy Parmesan garlic sauce adds a rich and savory flavor that elevates simple ingredients into a comforting meal.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own as a hearty dish.
• Leftover Friendly: The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious for lunch the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make this recipe successfully, having the right tools will help streamline your cooking process. Here are some essential tools you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring perfectly tender chicken and potatoes without constant monitoring.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining sauces and ingredients efficiently before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Whisk: A whisk helps create a smooth sauce by thoroughly mixing ingredients together, preventing lumps.

Ingredients

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
• 1 cup creamy Parmesan garlic sauce, such as Buffalo Wild Wings® Parmesan Garlic
• 1/2 cup water or chicken stock

For Cheese Topping

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For Garnish

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

Step 2: Add Chicken

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

Step 3: Mix Sauce

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

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and potatoes evenly.

Step 5: Cook

Cook on High for 4 hours or 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 Parmesan cheese. Cover and continue cooking.

Step 7: Garnish

Once done, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and flavor.

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 is all about enhancing the comforting flavors of this dish. Here are some creative ways to present it for an enjoyable dining experience.

Family-Style Platter

• Arrange the chicken and potatoes on a large serving platter.
• Drizzle extra Parmesan garlic sauce over the top for added flavor.

Individual Bowls

• Serve in individual bowls for a cozy meal.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on each bowl for a pop of color.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
• A light vinaigrette will complement the cheesy chicken beautifully.

As a Wrap

• Shred leftovers and use them as filling for wraps or tacos.
• Add fresh veggies like lettuce and tomatoes for crunch.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce.
• A side of garlic butter can enhance the overall flavor.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

Achieving perfection with your Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes can elevate your dish even further. Here are some handy tips to keep in mind.

• Choose quality chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best taste and texture.
• Cut potatoes evenly: Ensure potato chunks are similar in size to cook uniformly.
• Layer ingredients wisely: Place potatoes at the bottom and chicken on top to allow flavors to blend effectively.
• Adjust cooking time: Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165°F for safety and tenderness.
• Add cheese at the right time: Incorporate mozzarella during the last 20 minutes of cooking for gooey, melted perfection.
• Garnish before serving: Sprinkle fresh parsley just before serving for an appealing touch.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

Complementing your Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes with tasty side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options:

1. Garlic Green Beans
   Fresh green beans sautéed with garlic provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy chicken.

2. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad adds a refreshing bite, balancing the rich flavors of the main dish.

3. Steamed Broccoli
   Bright green broccoli steamed lightly offers vitamins and adds color to your plate.

4. Quinoa Pilaf
   Fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs makes a nutritious side that pairs well with chicken.

5. Roasted Asparagus
   Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil enhances your meal with its earthy taste.

6. Herbed Couscous
   Light and fluffy couscous mixed with herbs is an excellent option that absorbs flavors nicely.

7. Coleslaw
   Crunchy coleslaw brings a refreshing texture, perfect for cutting through creamy sauces.

8. Mashed Cauliflower
   Creamy mashed cauliflower serves as a low-carb alternative that complements cheesy dishes perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes can be a delightful dish when prepared correctly. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken and potatoes adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always sprinkle salt and pepper generously before cooking.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Adding too many ingredients can result in uneven cooking. Make sure to leave space for heat circulation by following the recipe’s ingredient amounts.
• Using low-quality sauce: A subpar garlic Parmesan sauce may not provide the desired flavor profile. Opt for a creamy, high-quality sauce for better taste.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long or too short can ruin your dish. Stick to the recommended times, checking for doneness periodically.
• Not allowing cheese to melt properly: Adding cheese too early may cause it to burn. Instead, add mozzarella and Parmesan during the last 20 minutes of cooking for a perfect melt.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor.

Freezing Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Best if used within 2-3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes?

Cooking on High takes about 4 hours, while Low requires approximately 6 hours.

Can I use other types of chicken with this recipe?

Yes, you can use thighs or drumsticks if you prefer dark meat. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

What side dishes go well with Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes?

Consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Can I customize the cheese used in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly comforting. This versatile dish allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!