Introduction to Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
When it comes to busy weeknights, we all crave meals that are both satisfying and easy to prepare. That's where a slow cooker shines, offering the perfect solution for those who want to come home to a warm, home-cooked dinner without spending the whole evening in the kitchen. Imagine walking through your door to the inviting aroma of slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes, ready to be enjoyed!
Using a slow cooker not only saves time but also enhances the flavors of your ingredients. The low, slow cooking process helps tenderize the chicken while infusing every bite with delicious seasonings. Plus, with minimal prep, you can easily assemble everything in just 15 minutes and let the slow cooker do the work. For a great overview of the benefits of slow cooking, check out this article from Serious Eats.
And let’s not forget the cleanup! Many models come with non-stick finishes, making washing up a breeze. So, whether you’re rushing home from work or chasing after little ones, this recipe is a lifesaver. Ready to dive into the creamy, savory goodness of slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Essential ingredients for a creamy, savory dish
To create a deliciously indulgent slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes, you'll need the following key ingredients:
- 2 pounds potatoes: Choose your favorite variety, cut into 1 ½- to 2-inch chunks for even cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps to enhance flavors and create a lovely texture.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: For seasoning.
- ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper: To give the dish a hint of spice.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Perfect for adding warm color and flavor.
- 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts: Diced into 1 ½-inch pieces, these will keep your dish tender and juicy.
- 1 cup creamy Parmesan garlic sauce: A must-have for that rich, delicious experience. Brands like Buffalo Wild Wings offer convenient options.
- ½ cup water or chicken stock: Adds moisture for perfect cooking.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For melty goodness and extra creaminess.
Optional ingredients for added flavor
While the essential ingredients make for a fantastic dish, consider these optional enhancements:
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle on top for added richness and depth.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: To garnish your dish and brighten the flavors.
Feel free to experiment with additional spices or vegetables, like carrots or bell peppers, to customize your slow cooker experience! This recipe is versatile and encourages a bit of creativity, ensuring you get a delightful meal every time.
Preparing Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Creating a warm, comforting meal in your slow cooker can transform a hectic day into something a bit more manageable. Follow these straightforward steps to prepare your Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes—a dish that's sure to impress with minimal effort!
Gather and prep your ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s best to have all your ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 pounds of potatoes, cut into 1½- to 2-inch chunks
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts, diced into 1½-inch pieces
- 1 cup creamy Parmesan garlic sauce (I recommend something like Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce)
- ½ cup water or chicken stock
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Once you have everything, give the potatoes a good rinse and let them dry a bit while you prepare the next steps. This dish can also be great for meal prep, and the leftovers are delightful!
Season the potatoes
Start by tossing your potato chunks in a large bowl with the olive oil, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and paprika until they are well-coated. The seasoning on the potatoes is crucial; it adds depth to the dish. Did you know that seasoning your potatoes before cooking amplifies their flavor? It's a little trick that can truly elevate your slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes from average to extraordinary.
Layer the chicken and potatoes in the slow cooker
Now, layer those flavorful potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the potatoes, ensuring an even spread. This layering method allows the chicken to soak in the flavors from the potatoes as everything cooks together.
Mix the Parmesan garlic sauce and water
In a separate bowl, whisk the creamy Parmesan garlic sauce with the water (or chicken stock) until well incorporated. This will create a luscious sauce that will coat both the chicken and potatoes beautifully. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken and potatoes in the slow cooker.
Cook the dish to perfection
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours. Make sure to check for doneness! The chicken should be cooked through and the potatoes should be tender. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together wonderfully, making each bite a delectable combination.
Add the cheeses for a melty top
During the last 20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top. Cover it again and let the cheese melt into a deliciously gooey layer. This step transforms your slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes into an indulgent meal. For an extra touch, consider sprinkling chopped parsley just before serving for some added color and freshness.
By following these steps, you'll create a dish that's not only easy to make but also irresistibly cheesy and savory. When it’s time to sit down and enjoy your meal, you might want to savor every bite—because you deserve it!
Variations on Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Add vegetables for extra nutrition
Want to boost the nutritional value of your slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes? Adding your favorite vegetables is a fantastic way to do just that. Think colorful bell peppers, vibrant carrots, or even nutritious broccoli! Just chop them up and toss them in with the chicken and potatoes. They’ll soak up all that delicious garlic Parmesan flavor while adding vitamins and minerals to your meal. Not only will your dish be heartier, but it’ll also delight those picky eaters at the table.
Swap chicken for turkey or beef
If you’re looking for a meat swap, turkey or beef can provide a delightful twist to your slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes. Turkey breasts will give you a leaner option, while beef chunks can turn this dish into a richer, more robust meal. Adjust cooking times slightly, as beef may require a bit more time to become tender. This is an easy way to keep the dish exciting and tailored to your taste preferences! Want even more options? Check out this great article on meat substitutions for inspiration.
Cooking tips and notes for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Ensure even cooking by cutting ingredients uniformly
To achieve perfectly cooked slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes, it's essential that your ingredients are cut to similar sizes. Aim for 1 ½-inch pieces for both chicken and potatoes. This ensures that everything cooks evenly, preventing undercooked chicken or mushy potatoes.
Avoid opening the lid during cooking
Resist the temptation to peek inside your slow cooker! Every time you lift the lid, heat escapes, prolonging the cooking time. Trust the process; your chicken and potatoes will be tender and flavorful by following the recipe as is. If you must check, do it during the last 20 minutes when you’re adding cheese.
For more handy slow cooker tips, check out The Spruce Eats or Delish. Happy cooking!
Serving suggestions for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Pair with a fresh salad
To balance the richness of the slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes, a vibrant and fresh salad is a perfect accompaniment. Consider a mixed green salad topped with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette to brighten up the plate. You could also try adding some roasted veggies for an extra flavor boost. A classic Caesar salad would also tie in beautifully with the Parmesan notes of the dish.
Suggestions for sides to complement the dish
While the chicken and potatoes are filling, adding a few simple sides can elevate your meal to the next level. Here are a few suggestions:
- Steamed green beans or broccoli for a nutritious crunch
- Garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce
- Quinoa or rice for a wholesome grain option
Experimenting with these sides not only adds variety but keeps your dining experience exciting! And hey, if you’re looking for more ideas, check out this resource on healthy side dishes. Happy cooking!
Time Breakdown for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Planning to make this delicious slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes? Here’s a quick look at the time you’ll need to whip up this comforting dish.
Preparation Time
15 minutes: In just a quarter of an hour, you can have everything prepped and ready to go. Chop the potatoes and chicken, mix the ingredients, and you’re halfway there!
Cooking Time
4 hours: While the slow cooker does all the hard work, take some time for yourself. Whether you choose to set it on high or low, your kitchen will soon be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of garlic and cheese.
Total Time
4 hours and 15 minutes: From beginning to end, you’ll be enjoying this cozy meal in a little over four hours. Perfect for a busy day when you want something delicious without the fuss.
With minimal preparation and satisfying results, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy lifestyle. Need a few more tips? Check out Food Network for more ideas on slow cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Calories per serving
Each serving of this delicious slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes contains approximately 566 calories. Perfect for a satisfying meal without going overboard!
Protein content
You’ll also get a hefty 59 grams of protein per serving, making this dish an excellent choice for fueling your day. This is particularly beneficial for those leading an active lifestyle or trying to build muscle.
Key nutrients breakdown
This savory dish not only tastes great but packs a punch in terms of nutrition. Here’s a quick snapshot of key nutrients:
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 148mg
- Sodium: 648mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 44g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Vitamin C: 22mg
- Calcium: 307mg
- Iron: 4mg
- Potassium: 1404mg
With a blend of vitamins and minerals, this meal is a fantastic way to enjoy comfort food while still being mindful of your health. For more insights on nutrition, check out resources from the American Heart Association or Nutrition.gov.
If you’re looking for a filling meal that satisfies your taste buds, this slow cooker recipe hits all the right notes!
FAQs about Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Can I substitute the sauce for a homemade version?
Absolutely! If you prefer to create a homemade version, you can mix together softened cream cheese, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and some chicken stock. Just adjust to your taste preferences, but don’t forget that the creamy texture is key for this slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes dish. Check out this guide for more homemade sauce options here.
What if I don't have a slow cooker?
No slow cooker? No problem! You can easily adapt this recipe for the oven. Simply preheat it to 400°F (200°C) and roast your chicken and potatoes in a covered baking dish for about 45 minutes. Ensure you keep an eye on the internal temperature of the chicken, aiming for 165°F (75°C). You'll still enjoy that creamy, savory goodness!
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be a lifesaver! After your slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes have cooled, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions; they’ll hold up well for about three months. Just reheat gently to enjoy your delicious meal again!
Conclusion on Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Embracing homemade meals for healthier choices
Cooking at home reduces reliance on processed foods, enabling you to enjoy flavorful dishes like slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes. This meal is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrition—perfect for busy young professionals. Dive into this delightful dish, and you'll relish both the convenience and health benefits!
Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 pounds potatoes, cut into 1 ½- to 2-inch chunks
Oils & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Protein
- 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts, diced into 1 ½-inch pieces
Sauces
- 1 cup creamy Parmesan garlic sauce such as Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce
- ½ cup water or chicken stock
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or to taste (optional)
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Combine potatoes, olive oil, ¾ teaspoons salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and paprika in the bottom of a slow cooker and stir until well coated. Add chicken pieces on top and sprinkle with remaining salt and pepper. Whisk Parmesan garlic sauce and water together in a bowl until well incorporated. Pour mixture over chicken and potatoes.
- Cook on High for 4 hours (or on Low for 6 hours), or until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender. During the last 20 minutes of cooking, add mozzarella and Parmesan and continue to cook, covered. Sprinkle with parsley to serve.
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