Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Herb Chicken Potatoes is a delicious and easy-to-make meal. It combines juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and rich flavors.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing chicken and potatoes with garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs. The result is a hearty, comforting meal that the entire family will love.
Preparing this meal takes minimal effort, requiring only a few simple ingredients and steps. It’s a nutritious option, packed with protein and vitamins. Plus, the aroma filling your home as it cooks is irresistible. Give this recipe a try for a hassle-free, flavorful dinner that pleases everyone at the table.
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Introduction To Slow Cooker Meals
Slow cookers make life easier. Just put all ingredients in the pot. Set the timer and walk away. Dinner will be ready when you return. No need to watch the stove. No need to stir or check the food often. Slow cooking saves time and effort.
Slow cooking helps retain nutrients. Food cooks at a low temperature. This keeps vitamins and minerals in the food. Slow cookers use less oil and fat. This makes meals healthier. Slow-cooked food is also tender and easy to digest.
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Ingredients
Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook evenly and absorb flavors well. Chicken thighs are also a good choice. They are juicier and more flavorful. Fresh chicken is always best. Avoid frozen if possible.
Baby potatoes work great. They hold their shape and cook evenly. Yukon Gold potatoes are also good. They have a creamy texture. Chop them into even pieces. This helps them cook at the same rate.
Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. Thyme, rosemary, and parsley are perfect. Dried herbs can also be used. Just use a smaller amount. Mix and match herbs to suit your taste.
Preparation Steps
Place the chicken in a large bowl. Add some olive oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper on the chicken. Add garlic powder and onion powder. Toss the chicken to coat it well. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
Wash the potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into small pieces. Place the potatoes in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix everything to coat the potatoes evenly.
Combine dried oregano, basil, and thyme in a small bowl. Add grated parmesan cheese. Mix well to blend the herbs and cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken and potatoes. Toss to coat evenly.
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Cooking Instructions
Plug in the slow cooker. Place the chicken and potatoes inside. Make sure they are evenly spread out. This will help them cook evenly.
Set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours. For faster cooking, set it to high for 3-4 hours. Check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should be at least 165°F.
Stir the chicken and potatoes halfway through the cooking time. This helps the flavors mix well. Check occasionally to ensure they are not overcooking. Adjust the temperature if needed.
Flavor Enhancements
Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor. It melts well and blends with the chicken. The cheese also forms a delicious crust on the potatoes. Grate fresh parmesan for the best taste.
Garlic gives a robust and savory touch. Use fresh garlic cloves for a stronger flavor. Minced garlic can spread more evenly in the dish. Garlic powder can be a quick alternative.
Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley add a burst of flavor. They also give a nice color to the dish. Chop the herbs finely for even distribution. Add them towards the end for a fresh taste.
Serving Suggestions
Mashed potatoes go well with the chicken. Steamed vegetables add a healthy touch. Garlic bread is perfect for dipping in the sauce. Green salad with a light vinaigrette is refreshing.
Lemonade is a great choice for kids. Iced tea pairs nicely with the meal. For adults, white wine complements the flavors. Sparkling water with a slice of lemon adds a classy touch.
Place the chicken at the center of the plate. Arrange potatoes around the chicken. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for color. Serve with a small bowl of extra sauce on the side.
Storage Tips
Store the cooked chicken and potatoes in an airtight container. Keep the container in the refrigerator. The food will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Always let the dish cool before refrigerating. This prevents condensation inside the container.
Place the chicken and potatoes on a microwave-safe plate. Cover the plate with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes. Check if the food is hot enough. Stir halfway to ensure even heating. You can also reheat in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the food in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for 15-20 minutes.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Label them with the date of freezing. The dish can stay frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw the frozen food in the refrigerator overnight. Never refreeze thawed food. This keeps the flavor and texture intact.
Nutritional Information
This dish has about 400 calories per serving. Most calories come from the chicken and potatoes. The cheese also adds to the calorie count. Each serving provides a balanced amount of energy.
Protein: 25 grams from chicken. Carbohydrates: 30 grams from potatoes. Fats: 20 grams from cheese and oil. These macronutrients help in muscle building and energy.
This dish is rich in vitamin C from the potatoes. Vitamin A is provided by the herbs. Chicken adds iron and zinc. Cheese is a good source of calcium. These vitamins and minerals are essential for growth and health.
Variations And Substitutions
Chicken can be swapped with turkey for a different taste. Pork works well too. Tofu makes a great vegetarian option. Fish adds a unique flavor. Beef gives a hearty twist.
Russet potatoes are common but red potatoes add color. Yukon Gold are creamy. Sweet potatoes give a sweet touch. Fingerling potatoes are small and cute. Purple potatoes add a fun color.
Rosemary can replace thyme. Basil works instead of oregano. Cilantro adds a fresh taste. Paprika can replace chili powder. Dill gives a new flavor. Sage can be an interesting swap.
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Make Slow Cooker Chicken Potatoes?
Combine chicken, potatoes, garlic, herbs, and Parmesan in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts work well. Adjust cooking time to ensure they don’t dry out.
What Herbs Are Best For This Recipe?
Use rosemary, thyme, and parsley for a flavorful dish. Fresh herbs enhance the taste better than dried ones.
Do Potatoes Need To Be Peeled?
No, peeling potatoes is optional. Leaving the skin adds texture and nutrients to the dish.
Can I Add Vegetables To This Recipe?
Yes, adding carrots or green beans works well. Ensure they are cut evenly for consistent cooking.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Herb Chicken and Potatoes recipe brings comfort and flavor to your table. It’s easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and perfect for busy weeknights. Try this delicious dish, and enjoy a wholesome meal with minimal effort.
Your family will love every bite!
