Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Cooking can be easy and delicious with the right recipe. One such recipe is Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes. This dish delivers a delightful blend of flavors and is cooked effortlessly in a crockpot. It is ideal for busy families or anyone who wants a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The chicken remains juicy, and the potatoes become wonderfully tender and flavorful by the end of the cooking time.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for those looking for a simple yet satisfying meal. First, it requires minimal effort. With some basic ingredients and a few steps, you can prepare a comforting dish that everyone will love. The best part is that it cooks on its own in a crockpot. You can set it in the morning and come home to a warm meal.
Second, this chicken and potatoes recipe is healthy. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, and baby potatoes provide essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, using olive oil and fresh garlic enhances the flavor while keeping everything wholesome.
Finally, this recipe is highly versatile. You can serve it for lunch or dinner, and it works well for gatherings and family meals. The combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese gives it a mouth-watering aroma that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delightful meal. It is easy enough for even beginner cooks to follow, and you will be amazed at the results.
Ingredients
To make Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes, you will need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients create a perfect blend of savory and creamy flavors.
Directions
Follow these easy steps to make Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes:
Grease Your Crockpot: Start by greasing your crockpot with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will help prevent sticking and make cleaning easier later.
Arrange Chicken and Potatoes: Next, arrange the halved baby potatoes and chicken breasts evenly in the crockpot. Make sure they are spread out so that they cook evenly.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the remaining olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients until they form a paste. This flavorful mixture will coat the chicken and potatoes beautifully.
Pour Over Chicken and Potatoes: Now, pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and potatoes in the crockpot. Ensure that everything is well coated so that all the flavors infuse into the dish as it cooks.
Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that the chicken is tender.
Check for Doneness: Once the cooking time is up, check to ensure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for chicken. The potatoes should be tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish your dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. This final touch makes the meal look inviting and fresh.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
When it comes to serving your Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes, you can keep it simple. This dish can be served directly from the crockpot for a casual family dinner. Here are some serving ideas:
- Plate the chicken on top of a bed of baby potatoes. Spoon some of the delicious cooking juices over the top for extra flavor.
- Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal.
- If you want a more filling option, serve it alongside a warm loaf of crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
This recipe is best enjoyed warm, but it also stays delicious for leftovers the next day.
How to Store Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Storing leftovers from your Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is easy. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the leftovers into an airtight container.
You can store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it instead. To freeze, place the cooled chicken and potatoes in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. This will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you are ready to eat it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or in a pot on the stove. Just be sure to heat it to a safe temperature.
Tips to Make Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Here are some helpful tips for making this recipe even better:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will enhance the flavor of the dish. If possible, opt for fresh parsley instead of dried.
Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and pepper to suit your taste. You can also add more Italian seasoning for a stronger flavor.
Try Different Vegetables: You can mix in other vegetables like carrots, onions, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Just make sure they cook evenly.
Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure your crockpot is not overcrowded. This way, everything cooks evenly, and you get perfectly tender chicken and potatoes.
Variation
If you would like to try a different flavor profile, consider adding a bit of lemon juice or zest to the sauce. This will give a nice citrusy brightness to the dish. Additionally, you can experiment with different cheese varieties, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a different twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, cooking times may vary. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
2. Can I cook this recipe on high instead of low?
Yes, if you are short on time, you can cook it on high for about 2 hours instead of low for 4 hours. Just make sure to check the chicken for doneness.
3. Can I make this recipe without a crockpot?
While this recipe is designed for a crockpot, you can also make it in a slow-cooking pot on the stove. The cooking time may differ, so adjust accordingly until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Enjoy thrilling your senses with the incredible flavors of Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or a simple weekend meal. Easy to make, everyone will appreciate the hearty, delicious result!
Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients
Method
- Grease your crockpot with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the halved baby potatoes and chicken breasts evenly in the crockpot.
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to form a paste.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and potatoes, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours.
- Check for doneness, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and potatoes are tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.