This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a cozy and tasty dish. Just pop everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you! You’ll love the creamy garlic sauce that makes every bite special.
I can’t resist how the chicken gets super tender while the potatoes soak up all that delicious flavor. Perfect for busy days when you want something easy yet satisfying! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs add flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, boneless, skinless thighs or breasts can be used instead, but they may need careful cooking to prevent drying out.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano works nicely too, or you can try a vegetarian alternative, like nutritional yeast, for a dairy-free option.
Baby Potatoes: Baby potatoes have a creamy texture, but you can substitute with quartered regular potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different taste. Just adjust the cooking time if using larger potatoes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the way to go for the best flavor. If you only have garlic powder, use about 1 teaspoon for a different but still tasty flavor.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken in a Crockpot?
One of the keys to a delicious crockpot meal is ensuring that the chicken stays tender and juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by seasoning the chicken thoroughly. This allows the flavors to penetrate.
- Searing the chicken before adding it to the crockpot enhances its flavor and gives it a nice texture, though this step is optional. Make sure the pan is hot for a good sear!
- Keep the lid on during cooking to trap steam. This helps the chicken stay moist. Avoid lifting the lid too often.
Also, adding the Parmesan cheese in the last 30 minutes makes it melt beautifully over the chicken and potatoes, giving an irresistible finish to your dish!
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
For The Vegetables:
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Cooking:
- 1 cup chicken broth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and will need to cook in the crockpot for 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. So, you can set it up in the morning and come home to a wonderful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use your hands to rub the seasonings into the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated for fantastic flavor!
2. Sear the Chicken (Optional):
If you want to add extra flavor and a nice golden color, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear them for about 4-5 minutes until they’re golden brown. Flip them over and do the same on the other side for another 4-5 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to the crockpot.
3. Add Potatoes and Onions:
In the crockpot, place the halved baby potatoes and chopped onion around the chicken thighs. This will allow the veggies to soak up all the delicious flavors while cooking!
4. Add Garlic and Broth:
Sprinkle the minced garlic over the chicken and potatoes. Then, pour the chicken broth all around to ensure everything stays juicy as it cooks.
5. Cook:
Cover the crockpot with a lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. It’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked and tender!
6. Add Parmesan:
About 30 minutes before serving, take off the lid and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and potatoes. Cover again to let the cheese melt and form a lovely crust.
7. Garnish and Serve:
When it’s all done, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley and add a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty meal with your loved ones!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! You can use boneless chicken thighs if you prefer. Just note that they may cook faster than bone-in thighs, so check for doneness around the 4-hour mark on high or 5-6 hours on low.
What Can I Use Instead of Baby Potatoes?
If you don’t have baby potatoes, feel free to substitute with regular potatoes cut into chunks or even sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor. The cooking time should remain about the same!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or on the stove. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, this recipe is already gluten-free! Just ensure that the chicken broth you use is labeled gluten-free, and you’re good to go!
