Introduction to Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
If you’re a busy young professional juggling work, social life, and the occasional Netflix binge, cooking can sometimes feel like a daunting task. Enter the Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes. This delightful dish perfectly blends convenience and comfort, making it the go-to recipe for those hectic weeknights when you crave something delicious without the fuss.
With just 15 minutes of prep, you can say goodbye to the chaotic after-work cooking. Simply toss everything into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it—you’ll come home to a house filled with mouthwatering aromas. The tender chicken and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce pair perfectly with the fluffy, cheese-topped potatoes, delivering a savory meal that satisfies the soul.
This recipe not only saves time, but it also allows for easy customization. Want to swap out the chicken for turkey bacon or add extra veggies? Go for it! Cooking should fit your lifestyle, and this dish makes it easy to enjoy hearty meals without sacrificing your precious time. Check out Allrecipes or Epicurious for more slow cooker tips and tricks to elevate your culinary game!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Creating the perfect slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes dish doesn't have to be a hassle! You'll love the ease of using just a handful of ingredients that come together for a delicious meal. Here’s what you'll need:
- 2 pounds potatoes: Cut into 1 ½- to 2-inch chunks for even cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds a rich flavor and helps keep everything moist.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and potatoes perfectly.
- ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a little warmth and enhances the other flavors.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: For just a hint of smokiness and color.
- 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts: Diced into 1 ½-inch pieces, ensuring they cook thoroughly and quickly.
- 1 cup creamy Parmesan garlic sauce: Look for options like Buffalo Wild Wings' sauce for a great flavor.
- ½ cup water or chicken stock: To help create a beautiful sauce.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Because more cheese is always better!
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a gourmet finish.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a fresh touch at the end.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be halfway to a comforting, satisfying meal! If you're curious about the nutritional benefits of these components, check out this guide on the health benefits of garlic. Happy cooking!
Step-by-step Preparation for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Making slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes is a delightful way to serve a comforting meal with minimal effort! Let’s break down the preparation into simple steps to ensure your cooking experience is as smooth as possible.
Gather and prepare your ingredients
Before diving in, take a moment to gather your ingredients. You’ll need the following:
- 2 pounds of potatoes, cut into 1 ½- to 2-inch chunks
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon of ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon of paprika
- 2 pounds of skinless, boneless chicken breasts, diced into 1 ½-inch pieces
- 1 cup of creamy Parmesan garlic sauce
- ½ cup of water or chicken stock
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Make sure the vegetables are prepped and ready. This helps speed up the process and allows you to cook without interruptions!
Combine potatoes with seasonings
In your slow cooker, start by adding the cut potatoes. To season them perfectly, drizzle in the olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until every potato chunk is well-coated. This stage is crucial because it sets the flavor foundation for your dish.
Add the chicken and sauce
Next, you’ll want to layer on the chicken. Place those diced chicken pieces on top of the seasoned potatoes. This way, they’ll absorb all that lovely flavor as they cook. In a separate bowl, whisk together the creamy Parmesan garlic sauce and the water or chicken stock until smooth. Pour this luscious mixture over the chicken and potatoes. The sauce is the star of the show here, elevating the dish to creamy perfection!
Set the slow cooker
Now that everything is in place, it’s time to let your slow cooker do its work. Set it to cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours—whichever suits your schedule best. This is the magic of slow cooking; you can go about your day while your meal simmers away.
Add cheese and finish cooking
When you’re nearing the end of the cooking time, around the last 20 minutes, it’s time to add the final flourish: the cheese! Scatter the shredded mozzarella and optional grated Parmesan on top, cover, and let it melt deliciously into the dish. This step will create a gooey, cheesy topping that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and creamy potatoes.
Once everything is done, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving. You’ll have a hearty meal ready to impress family and friends!
For more tips and variations on this recipe, check out AllRecipes or Food Network. Enjoy your cooking journey!
Variations on Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Swap the Chicken for Turkey
If you're looking to mix things up, consider swapping the chicken for turkey in this slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes recipe. Turkey breast works wonderfully here, providing a leaner alternative without losing any of that savory flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as turkey can cook faster than chicken. For additional deliciousness, marinate the turkey in the creamy Parmesan garlic sauce overnight for an extra burst of flavor.
Add Seasonal Vegetables
Incorporating seasonal vegetables can elevate your slow cooker dish even more. Think about adding carrots, green beans, or sweet potatoes for a colorful and nutritious twist. Not only will this enhance the taste, but it also increases the overall health benefits. For some great cooking tips, check out The Spruce Eats, where you can find more ideas for combining veggies with your slow cooker meals. Just remember to layer the vegetables between the chicken and potatoes to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Use fresh ingredients for best flavor
For truly mouthwatering slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes, always opt for fresh ingredients. Fresh potatoes yield a firmer texture, while high-quality garlic sauce enhances the overall flavor. Consider trying freshly minced garlic for a deeper taste, or use freshly grated Parmesan cheese to elevate the dish.
Adjust spice levels to taste
Customization is key! If you prefer a mild flavor profile, feel free to reduce the paprika or skip the black pepper altogether. On the other hand, if you love a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick. Make it your own and enjoy every bite!
For more cooking tips, check out resources like Bon Appétit or Serious Eats.
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Pair with a fresh salad
Elevate your slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes with a crisp, fresh salad. A simple mixed greens salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette is perfect. The acidity will balance the richness of the creamy garlic sauce, giving your meal a delightful contrast. Don't forget to check out this healthy salad dressing recipe to top it off!
Serve with crusty bread
Nothing complements your delicious dish quite like a slice of warm, crusty bread. Use it to soak up every bit of the savory sauce. A homemade garlic bread or a rustic baguette can enhance the comforting vibe of your meal. Plus, it's a perfect way to engage everyone at the table—what’s better than sharing bites together?
Time Breakdown for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Understanding the time commitment for making slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes can be quite helpful, especially for your busy schedule. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Preparation time
Getting started is a breeze! You’ll only need about 15 minutes to prep the ingredients and set everything in the slow cooker.
Cooking time
Pop on your lid and let it do its magic! The cooking takes approximately 4 hours on High. If you prefer a slower method, you can let it simmer on Low for about 6 hours.
Total time
Including both preparation and cooking, you’ll need around 4 hours and 15 minutes from start to finish. It's the perfect meal to set up before heading out for the day!
This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic way to come home to a warm, comforting dinner. Trust me, it's worth the wait! For more insights on slow cooking, check out resources like The Kitchn for tips and tricks.
Nutritional Facts for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
When it comes to a hearty meal like slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes, nutritional balance is key. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you'll be enjoying:
Calories
With about 566 calories per serving, this dish makes for a satisfying and filling meal without completely derailing your dietary goals.
Protein
Packed with 59 grams of protein, this recipe is perfect for those seeking to boost their protein intake, making it a great option for active young professionals.
Sodium
Keep an eye on the 648 mg of sodium per serving. It's ideal for curbing excessive salt while still enjoying delicious flavors. For tips on reducing sodium, check out resources from the American Heart Association.
This slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes dish is a wonderful way to nourish your body while indulging in rich flavors!
FAQs about Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the ingredients a day in advance, store them in your fridge, and simply pop everything into the slow cooker the next day. Just keep in mind that if you’ve prepared it ahead of time, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly since the ingredients will be cold.
What can I use instead of Parmesan garlic sauce?
If you don't have Parmesan garlic sauce on hand, you can create a similar flavor by mixing cream with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a touch of Italian seasoning. This will give you a delicious homemade sauce alternative that pairs beautifully with the chicken and potatoes.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is easy! Just place any uneaten slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. For longer storage, you can freeze leftovers for up to three months; just make sure to separate them into single servings for convenient meal options later. For more tips on storing meals, check out this guide on proper food storage.
Conclusion on Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
In summary, slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes is a delightful dish that's both effortless and rewarding. With tender chicken and creamy potatoes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it with a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal that your friends and family will love. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 pounds potatoes, cut into 1 ½- to 2-inch chunks
Cooking Essentials
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Meat
- 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.
Leave a Reply