Creamy Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes
When you need a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that cooks itself, this Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes recipe is your best friend. With tender chicken breasts, buttery baby potatoes, and a garlicky parmesan sauce, this dish is rich, savory, and irresistibly delicious. As the ingredients slowly simmer together, the garlic infuses every bite and the cheesy broth turns silky and thick. It’s the kind of meal that fills the house with mouthwatering aroma and brings everyone running to the table.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Key Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 25 minutes |
| Cook Time | 6–7 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high) |
| Total Time | 6.5–7.5 hours |
| Servings | 4 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | American |
| Best Season | Fall & Winter |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-Off Cooking: This slow cooker recipe requires minimal prep and zero babysitting, making it perfect for busy weekdays.
- Bold Flavors: Garlic, parmesan, and Italian seasoning combine for a rich, robust flavor profile that’s both comforting and craveable.
- Hearty & Filling: With protein-rich chicken and starchy potatoes, this is a one-pot meal that satisfies even big appetites.
- Versatile for Families or Couples: Make it for four or easily scale it down as a cozy Crock Pot dinner for two.
- Healthy Yet Indulgent: Simple, wholesome ingredients create a creamy, cheesy meal that feels indulgent but stays balanced.
Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Dinner
- Total Time: 6.5–7.5 hours
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A rich, savory slow cooker meal made with garlic, parmesan, tender chicken breasts, and buttery baby potatoes. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Wash and halve the baby potatoes. Mince the garlic cloves.
2. Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
3. Place halved potatoes in bottom of crockpot. Lay seasoned chicken on top.
4. Pour chicken broth evenly over the chicken and potatoes.
5. Sprinkle minced garlic over the chicken, then top with grated parmesan cheese.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
7. Check doneness: chicken should be 165°F, potatoes fork-tender.
8. Gently remove chicken and potatoes. Spoon sauce from pot over the top.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Use fresh grated parmesan for best results.
Chicken thighs can be substituted for juicier meat.
Add vegetables like carrots or green beans halfway through for extra nutrition.
To thicken the sauce, mash some potatoes into the broth or remove the lid near end of cooking.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–7 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast + potatoes
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip |
| Chicken Breasts | Use boneless, skinless for faster, even cooking; thighs also work for more flavor. |
| Baby Potatoes | Halving ensures they cook evenly; yellow or red potatoes hold up best. |
| Parmesan Cheese | Freshly grated melts better and adds richer flavor than pre-packaged. |
| Garlic | Freshly minced gives more punch; jarred can be used in a pinch. |
| Italian Seasoning | A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme; DIY or store-bought works well. |
| Chicken Broth | Use low-sodium for better control over saltiness. |
| Olive Oil | Helps the seasoning stick and adds richness to the chicken. |
| Red Pepper Flakes | Optional, but they add a subtle kick if you like a bit of heat. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Wash and halve the baby potatoes. Mince the garlic cloves and set everything aside for layering.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then coat with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Layer the Crockpot: Place the halved potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot in an even layer. Lay the seasoned chicken breasts right on top.
- Add the Broth: Pour the chicken broth evenly over the chicken and potatoes to help everything cook moist and tender.
- Top with Garlic and Cheese: Sprinkle minced garlic over the chicken, then generously cover with parmesan cheese.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Check for Doneness: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Serve: Gently remove the chicken and potatoes. Spoon any cheesy, garlicky sauce from the bottom of the pot over the top.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of green and extra freshness.
Helpful Tips
- Don’t skip searing: If you have time, searing the chicken in a skillet first adds extra flavor.
- Stir halfway: Gently stir once during cooking to evenly distribute garlic and cheese.
- Use liners: Crockpot liners make clean-up a breeze.
- Avoid overcooking: Use the low setting if you’re home all day to prevent drying out.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Layer strategically: Always place potatoes on the bottom to ensure they cook through without turning mushy.
- Grate your own cheese: Freshly grated parmesan melts more smoothly and tastes better than pre-shredded versions.
- Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken sit for a few minutes before slicing for juicier results.
- Finish with flair: A drizzle of lemon juice or a touch of cream right before serving brightens the flavor beautifully.
Recipe Variations
- Creamy Garlic Sauce: Add 1/3 cup heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier dish.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Mix mozzarella with parmesan for an extra gooey, cheesy top layer.
- Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño for heat lovers.
- Herb Twist: Swap Italian seasoning with rosemary and thyme for a rustic flavor change.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
To make ahead, prep everything the night before and store in the fridge in your crockpot insert. When ready, just place in the base and cook as directed. For freezer prep, place raw seasoned chicken, potatoes, garlic, and cheese in a freezer bag (without broth), freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking. Cook as normal, adding broth at the time of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish straight from the crockpot into shallow bowls to catch every drop of the garlicky sauce. Add a sprinkle of parmesan and parsley just before serving. For a touch of color, pair with steamed green beans or a simple garden salad.
Pairing Ideas
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir. For a non-alcoholic option, lemon-infused sparkling water complements the richness. Garlic bread or a warm crusty roll on the side is perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in 1-minute bursts until hot or warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep everything moist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust cooking time slightly if they’re bone-in.
What if I don’t have baby potatoes?
You can use diced Yukon gold or red potatoes. Just cut them evenly for consistent cooking.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely. Carrots or green beans work well but add them halfway through cooking to prevent over-softening.
Is it okay to cook on high the entire time?
Yes, cooking on high for 3–4 hours works perfectly if you’re short on time. Just monitor for doneness.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Swap parmesan for a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it. The dish will still be flavorful thanks to garlic and herbs.
What should I do if the sauce is too thin?
Remove the lid for the last 30 minutes or mash a few potatoes into the sauce to thicken naturally.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just be sure your crockpot is large enough. You may need to increase cook time slightly.
Nutrition Info (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Serving Size | 1 chicken breast + potatoes |
| Calories | 410 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fat | 19g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 2g |
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes recipe is comfort food made easy. With simple prep and rich, savory results, it’s bound to become a weeknight favorite. Try it once, and your crockpot might never leave the counter again!