Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

This Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With minimal prep and a handful of ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that’s rich in flavor. The tender chicken and seasoned potatoes smothered in a delicious sauce make this dish an instant favorite for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of garlic, Parmesan sauce, and spices creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Family-Friendly Meal: This dish is loved by both kids and adults, making it ideal for family dinners.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use any type of chicken or adjust potato quantities to suit your needs.
• Cheesy Goodness: Topped with melted mozzarella, this dish is irresistibly cheesy.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking; perfect for busy days.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop ingredients easily.
• Mixing bowl: Great for combining seasonings with potatoes before cooking.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to prepare this delightful dish:

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breasts
• Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce (enough to coat chicken)

For the Potatoes

• 5 medium-sized potatoes, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika (to season potatoes)

Seasonings

• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Topping

• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash and chop the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a mixing bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.

Step 2: Assemble in Slow Cooker

1. Place the seasoned potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Lay the seasoned chicken on top of the potatoes.

Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters

1. Spread minced garlic evenly over the chicken pieces.
2. Pour enough Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce over everything to coat thoroughly.

Step 4: Cook Your Meal

1. Cover your slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Add Cheese Topping

1. In the last 30 minutes of cooking time, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
2. Cover again and let it melt into gooey perfection.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm! Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your hearty meal!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Serving Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes can be as fun as making it. This hearty dish is versatile, allowing for various presentations that enhance its flavors. Here are some creative ways to serve this comforting meal.

Family Style

• Place the chicken and potatoes in a large serving dish for everyone to help themselves.
• Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil for added color.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the chicken and potatoes over a bed of fresh spinach or arugula.
• The greens will wilt slightly from the heat, adding a fresh touch.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the meal with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread.
• Use the bread to soak up the delicious sauce left on your plate.

In a Wrap

• Shred leftover chicken and mix with potatoes.
• Roll them in a tortilla with lettuce and cheese for a tasty wrap option.

As Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Reheat and serve as an easy lunch or dinner option throughout the week.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

To make your Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes even better, consider these helpful tips. They ensure maximum flavor and perfect texture every time you prepare this dish.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken breasts and high-quality Garlic Parmesan Sauce really elevate the dish’s taste.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Ensure there’s enough space for even cooking; avoid stacking too many ingredients on top of each other.
• Adjust Cooking Time: If using frozen chicken, increase cooking time by 1 hour on low or 30 minutes on high for optimal results.
• Layer Wisely: Always place potatoes at the bottom to catch all the flavors from the chicken as it cooks.
• Add Vegetables: Consider adding other vegetables like carrots or green beans for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving to help all flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes can enhance this meal further. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds vibrant color and crunch while balancing the cheesiness of the main dish.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy dressing complements the rich flavors of the chicken well.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus baked until tender provides a nice contrast to the hearty potatoes.
4. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative that pairs beautifully with garlic flavors while remaining creamy and delicious.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers a nutritious counterbalance to this comfort food classic.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn adds a delightful pop of sweetness; grill or boil it as a side treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning – Properly seasoning both the potatoes and chicken is essential for great flavor. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall dish.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker – Adding too many ingredients can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for optimal results.
• Not chopping potatoes evenly – Irregular potato sizes can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for consistent tenderness.
• Ignoring cooking times – Cooking too long or too short can affect texture and flavor. Always follow recommended cooking times based on your slow cooker settings.
• Forgetting to add cheese at the right time – Adding cheese too early can make it rubbery. Wait until the last 30 minutes of cooking for a perfect melt.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• • Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

• • Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• • Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals of 1–2 minutes, stirring in between.
• Stovetop – Heat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes.

How do I make Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes healthier?

You can substitute olive oil with a lighter oil or reduce the amount of cheese used without sacrificing flavor.

Can I use different types of chicken?

Yes! You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture in your Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal alongside your Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything, store it in the fridge overnight, and cook it the next day when ready.

Is it possible to customize this recipe?

Definitely! Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to enhance flavors and nutrition in your Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is an incredible meal that combines ease with mouth-watering flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or vegetables, making it versatile enough to suit any taste!