– **Title**: Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– **Instructions**:
1. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the garlic mixture.
3. Place the halved baby potatoes in the bottom of the crockpot, then lay the coated chicken breasts on top.
4. Pour the chicken broth evenly over the chicken and potatoes.
5. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken and potatoes. Cover and continue to cook until the cheese is melted.
7. Once done, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe as they cook evenly and stay tender. If you prefer dark meat, thighs work nicely too! You could swap seafood or tofu for a different flavor.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold and red potatoes are my favorites for their creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, try cauliflower or turnips instead, just keep an eye on the cooking time!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a rich, salty flavor. In a pinch, you could use Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist that adds a cheesy taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that amazing aroma! If you don’t have fresh on hand, garlic powder works in a pinch—just use 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken Stays Moist and Tender?
Chicken can dry out if overcooked, so it’s essential to monitor the cooking time closely. The crockpot helps keep it moist, but check it at the lower end of the cooking range. Here are some tips:
- Always season well; this boosts flavor and moisture.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps juices redistribute.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken is safely cooked at 165°F (75°C).
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 6-8 hours to cook on low (or 3-4 hours on high) in your crockpot. That means you can set it in the morning, and it’ll be ready by dinner time. Perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Make sure to rub the spices in well so that the chicken absorbs all that lovely flavor.
2. Coat the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with minced garlic and olive oil. Mix them together until the potatoes are well coated in the garlic and oil. This adds a delicious taste to the dish!
3. Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Next, layer the garlic-coated potatoes on top of the chicken. This helps the chicken to stay nice and moist while it cooks.
4. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and potatoes. This will keep everything juicy as it cooks. It’s important to add moisture, so don’t skip this step!
5. Start Cooking:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. You can choose to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Your goal is to have the chicken cooked through and tender, while the potatoes become soft enough to easily pierce with a fork.
6. Add the Parmesan:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken and potatoes. Cover again so the cheese melts and becomes beautifully gooey.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, take off the lid and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting and delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the quick method by placing the sealed chicken in a bowl of cold water for about an hour. Make sure to pat it dry before seasoning.
What Potatoes Are Best for This Recipe?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes work wonderfully! Their creamy texture holds up well during cooking. If you prefer, you can also use baby potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly for smaller or larger pieces.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything and assemble the crockpot in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. If you do this, avoid adding the broth and cheese until you’re ready to cook to prevent mushiness.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. It also freezes well for up to 2 months; just reheat directly from frozen, adjusting the time as needed!
