This easy slow cooker meal brings together juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and a yummy parmesan garlic sauce that’s super tasty. Just set it and forget it while it cooks!
I love how it fills the kitchen with mouthwatering smells while it’s cooking. Plus, the leftovers make for great lunches—if there are any left, that is! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs add flavor and moisture. If you prefer, you can use boneless thighs or chicken breasts, but adjust cooking time as they cook faster.
Potatoes: Baby red and yellow potatoes are perfect because they hold their shape. If unavailable, feel free to use regular potatoes, just chop them into similar sizes. Sweet potatoes would also work for a different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re out of parmesan, pecorino Romano or a combination of mozzarella and parmesan can work too. Nutritional yeast is a great substitute for a vegan option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that vibrant flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used but start with less, about 1 teaspoon, since it’s more concentrated.
What’s the Best Way to Get Flavor into the Chicken?
To achieve the best flavor, rub the garlic and seasoning mix directly under the chicken skins. This allows the seasonings to seep into the meat as it cooks. Be generous! It’s all about layering flavors.
- Mix mayonnaise with your seasonings for a richer paste, making the chicken extra moist.
- Don’t forget to generously season the vegetables under the chicken, as they soak up all the tasty juices while cooking.
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes are Perfectly Tender?
Getting the potatoes just right means cutting them into even-sized pieces—this ensures they cook at the same rate. Placing them on the bottom of the slow cooker lets them absorb all those delicious flavors from the chicken!
- Choose potatoes that are similar in size, or cut larger pieces to match the smaller ones.
- Add the potatoes first before the chicken; this keeps them nice and tender.
Easy Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Potatoes:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1.5 pounds baby red and yellow potatoes, halved
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
For the Seasoning:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Cooking Liquid:
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richer flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish requires about 15 minutes of prep time. Once everything is ready, you’ll need to let it cook in the slow cooker for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just set it and relax while it fills your kitchen with mouthwatering scents!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Slow Cooker:
Start by lightly greasing the inside of your slow cooker with a bit of olive oil or non-stick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Season Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this flavorful mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to get under the skin for maximum deliciousness!
3. Layer Potatoes and Onions:
Spread the halved baby potatoes and chopped onions evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a nice base and lets the potatoes soak up all the fantastic flavors.
4. Place Chicken:
Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the potatoes and onions. Get them nice and cozy!
5. Add Liquids:
Pour the chicken broth and olive oil evenly over everything. If you want that extra touch of richness, dot the chicken with a bit of butter.
6. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked (with an internal temperature of 165°F), and the potatoes should be lovely and tender.
7. Crisp Chicken Skin (optional):
If you like crispy skin, take the chicken thighs out of the slow cooker and place them on a baking sheet. Broil them in the oven for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye to make sure they don’t burn—just until the skin is golden and crispy.
8. Serve:
Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and potatoes for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the deliciousness with a spoonful of the flavorful juices drizzled over the top. Perfect for family dinners!
This easy yet satisfying meal combines juicy garlic-Parmesan chicken with tender potatoes, making it a great addition to your dinner rotation. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer! Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so check their internal temperature around the 3-hour mark on high or the 5-hour mark on low to prevent drying out.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have parmesan cheese, you can use pecorino Romano for a similar flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute that adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and potatoes in the microwave or on the stove until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep everything moist.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and potatoes. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best results!
