Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes | Easy & Flavorful Recipe

Introduction

Cooking a delicious meal on a busy weekday can be challenging, but with a slow cooker, you can create an impressive dish without spending hours in the kitchen. One such dish is the Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes. This recipe combines juicy chicken thighs, tender baby red potatoes, and the savory flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. With just a little prep time and the magic of a slow cooker, you’ll have a comforting and hearty dinner that the whole family will love.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish offers a balance of rich, savory flavors and hearty ingredients that work together perfectly. The chicken thighs are first seared to create a crispy skin, which adds depth and texture to the final dish. Slow-cooking the chicken and potatoes allows them to soak up all the flavors of the garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese. The result is a succulent, mouth-watering meal that feels indulgent yet requires minimal effort.

Ingredients with Quantities

To get started, here are the ingredients you’ll need for this tasty slow cooker recipe:

• 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are ideal for slow cooking as they stay juicy and tender over long periods of cooking.
• 1 lb baby red potatoes, halved: Baby red potatoes become soft and flavorful, absorbing the delicious juices from the chicken.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for searing the chicken, creating a crispy skin and adding richness to the dish.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a punch of flavor that pairs well with the Parmesan cheese and herbs.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: This herb offers a subtle earthy flavor.
• 1 tsp dried basil: Basil adds a slight sweetness that complements the savory elements of the dish.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Oregano’s bold, peppery taste helps round out the herb mixture.
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: The Parmesan cheese melts over the chicken and potatoes, adding creaminess and a salty, nutty flavor.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Enhances the overall flavors of the dish.
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley leaves, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor at the end.

Directions and Preparation Method

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into the preparation process:

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

The first step is to heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin-side down, and sear both sides until golden brown. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Searing the chicken locks in moisture and gives it a beautiful, crispy texture. Once seared, set the chicken aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic-Herb Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, dried thyme, basil, and oregano. This mixture will be the base flavor for the chicken and potatoes. It’s a simple yet effective way to infuse the dish with aromatic, savory notes that complement the richness of the chicken and cheese.

Step 3: Arrange Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Place the seared chicken thighs and halved baby red potatoes into the slow cooker. Sprinkle the garlic-herb mixture over the top, making sure to evenly distribute the flavors. Season everything generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat for 7-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken becomes tender, while the potatoes absorb all the delicious juices. You’ll know the chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese

About 30 minutes before the cooking time is complete, sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and potatoes. Cover the slow cooker again and allow the cheese to melt. This step adds a creamy, salty layer that takes the dish to the next level.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese is melted and the dish is ready to serve, garnish it with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, and enjoy your flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes!

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts instead of bone-in, skin-on thighs?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts if you prefer. However, the skin-on, bone-in thighs tend to retain more moisture during the long cooking process, resulting in juicier meat. If using chicken breasts, keep in mind that they might cook faster, so monitor the internal temperature closely to avoid overcooking.

2. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! While potatoes are a staple in this dish, you can add other vegetables such as carrots, onions, or green beans. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also sprinkle nutritional yeast over the dish for a cheesy, nutty flavor without the dairy.

4. Do I need to sear the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker?

While searing the chicken is not strictly necessary, it is highly recommended. Searing helps develop a richer flavor and creates a crispy skin, which enhances the overall texture and taste of the dish. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This is an excellent dish to prepare ahead of time. You can sear the chicken and assemble everything in the slow cooker the night before. Store it in the refrigerator overnight, and simply start the slow cooker in the morning. This is perfect for a hassle-free dinner after a busy day.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes recipe is perfect for those who want a flavorful, comforting meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, soft potatoes, and the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese makes this dish irresistible. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, letting the slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day.

Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is versatile and sure to be a hit. The slow-cooked chicken remains juicy, while the potatoes soak up all the delicious flavors. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for that final touch of color and freshness.

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