Can a slow cooker really deliver crispy-topped, golden potatoes and tender garlic-Parmesan chicken in one creamy, flavor-packed dish? Absolutely. Introducing Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes—a cozy, comforting, all-in-one dinner that blends rich cream, savory spices, and melty cheese into every bite. It’s an effortless dump-and-go meal that tastes like a restaurant-worthy casserole. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or hearty appetites, this recipe delivers on all fronts—and it’s as easy as pressing “start.”
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
- 4 cups Yukon Gold or russet potatoes (peeled & cubed)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Base
- Lightly grease the bottom of your slow cooker insert with olive oil or spray.
- Add cubed potatoes and chicken evenly to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, Parmesan, garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and potatoes. Stir gently to coat everything.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender and chicken is fully cooked.
- For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top in the last 15 minutes and cover until melted.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Top with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
Variations
- Use chicken thighs for juicier meat and deeper flavor.
- Swap mozzarella for shredded provolone or white cheddar for a twist.
- Add chopped spinach or kale in the last hour for extra greens.
- Top with crispy bacon bits before serving for added crunch.
Cooking Note
- Cut potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Heavy cream adds richness, but half-and-half works great for a lighter option.
- Stir once halfway through cooking if possible for even sauce distribution.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy dish with steamed green beans, sautéed asparagus, or a crisp Caesar salad. It also works well served over fluffy white rice or alongside garlic bread to soak up that cheesy, garlicky sauce.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. For best texture, avoid freezing due to the cream-based sauce separating.
Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 520
Protein: 36g
Sodium: 780mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Swap heavy cream for low-fat evaporated milk or a cashew cream alternative. Use part-skim mozzarella and reduce Parmesan by half. Add cauliflower chunks in place of some potatoes to reduce carbs while keeping the dish hearty and creamy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: Chicken can dry out if left too long. Stick to suggested times.
- Too much liquid: Avoid doubling the cream, as potatoes release moisture while cooking.
- Skipping cheese blend: Parmesan adds saltiness and depth—don’t skip it!
- Uneven potato cuts: Leads to some mushy, some hard pieces. Uniformity is key.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes combines rustic flavors and creamy textures into one family-friendly dish. It’s the perfect balance of hearty protein, comforting potatoes, and a luxuriously cheesy sauce that brings everything together in a single pot. Ideal for busy nights, weekend meal preps, or feeding a crowd, it’s a recipe that’s both easy and elegant. Try it once, and it just might earn a permanent place in your slow cooker rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Thawed chicken is best to ensure even cooking and food safety.
Q2: Can I cook this on high?
A: Yes! Cook on high for 3–4 hours, checking for doneness around the 3-hour mark.
Q3: Can I skip the mozzarella?
A: Definitely—it’s optional. The base is creamy and flavorful enough on its own.
Q4: Will this work with sweet potatoes?
A: Yes, but reduce the cook time slightly as sweet potatoes soften faster.
Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes is a creamy, cheesy slow cooker dinner bursting with rich flavor and easy comfort.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
4 cups Yukon Gold or russet potatoes (peeled & cubed)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Lightly grease the bottom of your slow cooker insert with olive oil or spray.
2. Add cubed potatoes and chicken evenly to the slow cooker.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, Parmesan, garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and potatoes. Stir gently to coat everything.
5. Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender and chicken is fully cooked.
6. For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top in the last 15 minutes and cover until melted.
7. Top with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Use chicken thighs for juicier meat and deeper flavor.
Let cream cheese soften before cooking to blend more smoothly.
Add vegetables like carrots or spinach in the last hour for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American Comfort
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 130mg