I came home from work and felt tired. My family always asks, ‘What’s for dinner?’ I wanted something easy and tasty. That’s when I thought of my slow cooker.
The smell of garlic and parmesan filled our house. I could see my family’s faces lighting up. They loved the thought of a warm meal.
Tonight, we’re making slow cooker garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes. It’s easy and tastes great. It’s perfect for busy families like mine.
It has chicken and potatoes in a good mix. This makes it a great meal for weeknights.
It only takes 15 minutes to prepare. Then, it cooks for 6 hours. My family will love this easy and tasty meal.
Introduction to Slow Cooker Meals
Slow cooker meals have changed how we make dinner, great for busy people. Just 5 minutes of prep and you’re set for the day. They let flavors mix slowly, making food taste better and stay moist.
Many families in the US love slow cooker meals for their ease. I often make dinner in the morning and let the slow cooker work its magic. Dishes like Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes are perfect examples of how easy and delicious they can be.
Why Choose Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes?
This dish is a mix of tasty chicken and potatoes. It smells great and tastes even better. The garlic and Parmesan cheese make every bite special.
It’s easy to make and feeds a lot of people. The chicken and potatoes are tender and soft. It’s perfect for family dinners.
It’s great for busy days because you can cook it in a slow cooker. This way, the flavors get better while you’re busy.
Let’s look at some detailed nutritional insights and appealing aspects of this recipe:
| Nutritional Information | Value per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 446 kcal |
| Protein | 40 g |
| Carbohydrates | 52 g |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 92 mg |
| Sodium | 2018 mg |
| Fiber | 19 g |
When I make this dish, it makes everyone happy. It’s a meal that fills you up and makes you feel good. It’s a great choice for dinner.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Choosing the right ingredients is key for a tasty dinner. For my slow cooker garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes, I pick main items and seasonings. This ensures a delicious meal.
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds of skinless, boneless raw chicken breasts, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
- 2 pounds of potatoes, cut into 1 ½ to 2-inch chunks
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
These ingredients make the dish hearty and tasty.
Seasonings and Sauces
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of kosher salt
- 3/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 cup of creamy Parmesan garlic sauce (such as Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce)
For a special touch, I sometimes add:
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley for garnishing
Homemade garlic parmesan seasoning makes the dish even better. It brings out the chicken and potatoes’ flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking
Start by getting your ingredients ready. Cut baby potatoes into equal pieces. This makes them cook the same.
In a bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of melted butter with 4 teaspoons of minced garlic. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mix is the heart of my garlic Parmesan sauce.
Preparation of Ingredients
After prepping, it’s time to put everything in the slow cooker. Start with the potatoes at the bottom. This helps them cook well.
Next, put the four boneless chicken breasts on top. Make sure they’re spread out. Then, cover them with the garlic butter mix. This lets the flavors mix well.
Crockpot Assembly
Now, put the last touches on your crockpot. Sprinkle the rest of the seasonings on the chicken. Pour the garlic sauce over everything.
Make sure everything is spread out right. This helps it cook evenly. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 8 hours. This makes the chicken tender and full of flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breasts | 4 small |
| Baby potatoes | 2 lbs |
| Melted butter | 3 Tbsp |
| Minced garlic | 4 tsp |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp |
| Cooking time (low) | 8 hours |
Cooking Times and Temperature Settings
To get the best results, follow the slow cooker guidelines closely. Cooking times are key for tender chicken and potatoes. For a 6-quart slow cooker, cook on Low for 4 to 6 hours, or High for 3 to 5 hours.
Watch the chicken and potatoes near the end. The chicken must be at least 165°F to be safe. The potatoes should be fork-tender, showing they’re cooked well.
If you add evaporated milk and flour later, add 30 minutes on High. This thickens the sauce and makes the dish richer. Knowing crockpot settings and cooking times is important for flavor and texture.
| Setting | Cooking Time | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 4-6 hours | 165°F (74°C) |
| High | 3-5 hours | 165°F (74°C) |
| Additional for Cheese | 30 minutes | N/A |
By paying attention to these details, you can make your cooking better every time.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken
When you make garlic parmesan chicken, some tips can make it better. Choosing the right chicken and using fresh ingredients is key. It makes your meal even more special.
Choosing the Right Chicken Cut
Choosing the right chicken is important for taste and texture. I like to use skinless, boneless chicken breasts. They are lean and tasty.
But, if you want more flavor, try dark meat like thighs. They keep the meat moist and flavorful. Adding the right seasonings makes it even better.
Using Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh garlic and herbs makes a big difference. Fresh garlic is best, but jarred garlic works too when you’re in a hurry.
Using high-quality sauces and seasonings brings out the chicken’s flavor. This makes every bite delicious and satisfying.
Possible Variations to Try
Try new things with garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes. Swap the protein for turkey or pork for a tasty change. You can also add carrots, bell peppers, or green beans for more color and nutrients.
Make your own garlic parmesan sauce for a richer taste. Use fresh garlic, heavy cream, and parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Adjust cooking times if you add denser veggies, like carrots, in the last 30-45 minutes.
| Variation | Additional Ingredients | Cooking Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Using Turkey | Turkey breasts (4-5 pieces) | Cook on low for 6-7 hours. |
| Using Pork | Pork loin (1.5 lbs) | Cook on high for 3-4 hours. |
| Adding Carrots | 2-3 medium carrots, sliced | Add during the last 30-45 minutes. |
| Creating Garlic Parmesan Sauce | 1 cup heavy cream, fresh minced garlic | Mix in during the last hour of cooking. |
These changes can make your dish special. You can try different proteins or add new veggies. There are many ways to make this recipe your own.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
I love serving slow cooker garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes with fresh sides. A bright salad or roasted veggies are great choices. My top picks are:
- Garlic green beans
- Steamed broccoli
- Coleslaw
These sides balance the rich chicken and potatoes flavors. They also add extra nutrients. For a fun twist, try a light dressing or ranch on the veggies. It makes the dish taste better and look good too.
When making dinner for the family, think about what everyone likes. Add extra veggies that your family loves. A complete meal makes everyone happy and dinner time special.
Other Flavorful One-Pan Dinner Recipes
If you like my garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes recipe, you might also enjoy other one-pan meals. Try Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken and Veggies, Teriyaki Chicken and Rice, and Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet. They are quick, tasty, and easy to make.
- Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken and Veggies: This dish has bright flavors. It combines chicken thighs with veggies. It’s a fresh twist on dinner.
- Teriyaki Chicken and Rice: It’s a tasty dinner with chicken in teriyaki sauce. It comes with rice and broccoli. It’s a full meal in one.
- Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet: This recipe is rich and creamy. It has spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a mix of textures and tastes in one pan.
These meals are easy to make and taste great. They make dinner prep simple. You can spend more time with family and friends at dinner.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
After enjoying my delicious slow cooker garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes, I often find myself with some tasty leftovers. For effective leftover storage, I make sure to place them in an airtight container. I keep them in the refrigerator. They typically last up to 3 days, allowing me to savor the meal a few more times throughout the week.
If I want to extend their shelf life, freezing portions is a perfect option. Though, I find the texture of the potatoes can change after thawing.
When it comes to reheating methods, I prefer using a microwave for speed. A minute or so usually does the trick. For a more even heat, retreating to the oven is also an excellent choice.
Just remember to splash in a bit of broth or water to help retain moisture. This ensures that the chicken stays juicy. It’s all about those meal prep ideas that make creating a quick and satisfying meal easy!
Whether I’m enjoying my leftovers on a busy weeknight or planning ahead, keeping these tips in mind allows me to enjoy every bite of my garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes without waste. Just remember to reheat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F for the best flavor and safety!
