Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken: Juicy Chicken & Potatoes Recipe

Introduction to Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken

Slow cooking is a culinary wonder, especially for young professionals juggling busy schedules. When you’re rushing from meetings to workouts, whipping up a home-cooked meal can seem daunting. Enter the slow cooker, your new best friend. This handy kitchen appliance allows you to embrace the art of slow cooking, turning simple ingredients into delicious meals without demanding your time and attention. Imagine coming home to the irresistible aroma of Parmesan garlic chicken wafting through your home; it’s like a warm hug after a long day.

Why Slow Cooking is a Game-Changer for Young Professionals

1. Time-Saving Solution: With the chaos of work and personal life, finding time to cook can be a struggle. The beauty of a slow cooker is that you can prep your slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken in the morning, set it to cook, and forget about it. When you’re ready to eat, dinner is waiting, perfectly tender and flavorful.

2. Flavor Development: Slow cooking allows ample time for flavors to meld, resulting in a rich and robust taste that quick cooking methods often lack. The Parmesan and garlic infuse into the chicken and potatoes beautifully, creating a satisfying dish that rivals any restaurant meal.

3. Healthier Eating: Eating out can often lead to quick, unhealthy choices. By using a slow cooker, you control ingredients that make up your meals. Opt for lean proteins and fresh vegetables, and you’ve got a wholesome dinner straight from the heart of your home.

4. Budget-Friendly: Slow cookers work wonders with inexpensive cuts of meat and bulk vegetables. You don’t need to splurge to get that melt-in-your-mouth chicken. Plus, you can easily double a recipe for meal prep, ensuring you have tasty leftovers ready for busy days.

5. Versatility: From comforting soups to hearty stews, the slow cooker adapts to your mood. You can easily swap out ingredients in the slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken recipe, like adding seasonal veggies to suit your palate.

For more suggestions on slow-cooking methods, check out this comprehensive guide from The Kitchn. And if you’re considering investing in a slow cooker, visit this resource for expert reviews and recommendations.

Incorporating slow cooking into your life doesn’t just make eating at home easy; it transforms your whole approach to mealtime! Prepare to embrace the flavor and convenience with slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken

If you’re ready to dive into the delightful world of slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how straightforward and satisfying this recipe is. Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious dish that pairs beautifully with potatoes and will leave everyone begging for seconds.

Chicken and Base Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: 1.5 to 2 pounds, boneless and skinless for easy preparation.
• Potatoes: 4 medium-sized, Yukon gold or red potatoes work well, chopped into bite-sized pieces.

Flavor Boosters

• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated for that creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced, because more garlic equals more flavor!
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup, to keep everything moist and tender.

Seasoning Essentials

• Italian Seasoning: 1 tablespoon, to infuse an aromatic blend of herbs.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, ensuring that every bite is seasoned just right.
• Turkey Bacon: Optional, but it adds a savory twist.

For a deeper dive into the benefits of slow cooking, check out this insightful article. With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a cozy meal that everyone will enjoy!

Let’s get cooking!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken

If you’re looking for a comforting, easy meal that practically cooks itself, slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken is where it’s at. This dish brings together the creamy richness of Parmesan and the aromatic flavor of garlic, transforming your weeknight dinners into something special. Ready to dive in? Let’s break it down step-by-step!

Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you dive into the cooking, let’s take a moment to ensure you have everything you need. According to the USDA, having all your ingredients ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Chicken and Potatoes:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1.5 pounds of baby potatoes (halved or quartered)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 cup of chicken broth (low-sodium is a great choice)

• 1 cup of heavy cream

• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

• 5-6 cloves of garlic (minced)

• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning

• 1 tablespoon of olive oil

Once everything is at hand, wash your potatoes, and rinse the chicken to ensure you start with clean ingredients. Prepping these will save you time once the cooking starts!

Coat the Potatoes and Chicken

The next step is all about adding flavor. You’ll want to coat both the potatoes and chicken in a charming blanket of seasoning.

• For the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Don’t skimp on the seasoning; potatoes love a good flavor boost!

• For the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a bit of Italian seasoning. This initial touch will set the tone for the entire dish.

As you season, think about how flavors develop during cooking. The salt you add now will help draw out moisture, making your chicken tender and juicy.

Mix the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Sauce

Now let’s whip up that luscious sauce that takes this dish over the top. In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• The chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Minced garlic
• Remaining Italian seasoning

Mix until well combined. You’re looking for a creamy consistency, and you’ll be surprised at how quickly everything transforms into a delectable sauce. This creamy goodness is what makes the slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken shine.

Layer and Cook in the Slow Cooker

It’s time to layer everything into your slow cooker, creating a wonderful symphony of flavors.

1. Place the seasoned potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Gently lay the chicken breasts on top of the potatoes.
3. Finally, pour the creamy Parmesan garlic sauce evenly over everything.

Set your slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule. As you wait, your kitchen will fill with enticing aromas that will have your mouth watering!

Add Cheese at the Right Moment

Finally, here’s the secret to an irresistible finish. About 30 minutes before serving, lift the lid (careful not to burn yourself!) and sprinkle an extra ½ cup of grated Parmesan on top of the chicken and potatoes. This final touch will melt and create a lovely, cheesy topping that adds an additional layer of flavor and texture.

To finish, serve this dish with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Your friends and family will wonder how you managed to make something that tastes so good with so little effort!

For easy variations and additional tips, check out This Cooking Guide, a great resource for young professionals looking to spice up their culinary skills. Enjoy your cooking!

Variations on Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken

Exploring different spins on your slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken can keep meals exciting and flavorful. Here are two delightful variations to try next time you’re craving this classic dish.

Creamy Mushroom Version

If you love a rich and velvety sauce, consider incorporating mushrooms into your slow cooker creation. Simply add sautéed sliced mushrooms to the mix about halfway through cooking. The mushrooms will soak up the savory flavors while providing an earthy depth.

To enhance the creaminess, you can stir in a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream right before serving. This adjustment not only intensifies the flavor but also creates a luxurious texture that’s perfect for spooning over your slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes. Don’t forget to check out The Mushroom Council for tips on selecting and storing your fungi friends!

Add Seasonal Veggies for a Twist

Why not take advantage of fresh, seasonal produce? Toss in some vibrant veggies — think carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers — alongside your chicken. Not only does this boost the nutritional value of your meal, but it also adds a burst of color and flavor that can vary with each season.

Slide in some cherry tomatoes or spinach during the last hour of cooking for bright, fresh notes and extra nutrients. Mixing in veggies can make your slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken a one-pot wonder that pleases the entire family.

These fun variations are sure to bring variety to your dinner table, so why not give them a try? Your taste buds will thank you!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken

Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts

When preparing your slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken, selecting the right cuts of chicken can make all the difference. For juicy, flavorful results, boneless chicken thighs are an excellent choice due to their higher fat content, which keeps them moist during the long cooking process. If you prefer lighter options, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work too but may require careful monitoring to prevent drying out.

Slow Cooker Settings Explained

Understanding your slow cooker settings can take your dish from good to great. Most slow cookers have two main settings: low and high. For slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken, the low setting is ideal, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time, typically requiring 6-8 hours. The high setting cooks the chicken faster (around 3-4 hours), but you might miss out on some of those deeper flavors. If you’re in a pinch, try the high setting, but plan ahead for the best taste experience!

Feeling curious about the science behind slow cooking? Check out this extensive guide on slow cooking techniques for more insights!

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken

Pairing with Rice or Pasta

When it comes to enjoying your slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken, consider serving it over fluffy rice or al dente pasta. Both options are fantastic for soaking up the savory sauce, making every bite deliciously satisfying. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a blend of brown rice for added texture or whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist? These choices not only complement the chicken beautifully but also sustain you throughout the day, keeping your energy levels high.

Ideal Sides for a Complete Meal

To create a well-rounded meal, think about adding some vibrant sides. Steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, add freshness and color to your plate. A simple side salad with mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette can also be refreshing. Feeling a bit more indulgent? Mashed potatoes blend wonderfully with the garlic sauce, adding creaminess that pairs perfectly with your slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken.

Don’t forget about a crusty slice of bread to mop up any leftover sauce—it’s a simple pleasure that elevates your dining experience, and who can resist that? Exploring more side dish options? Check out some ideas on seasonal vegetables from EatingWell.

Time Breakdown for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken

Preparation time
Getting started with the slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken is a breeze! All you need is about 15 minutes to chop, season, and layer your ingredients in the slow cooker. Don’t forget to wash your hands and your veggies!

Cooking time
Once you’re all set, let your slow cooker do the work! Cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours. The longer, the better—it allows those savory flavors to meld beautifully.

Total time
In total, you’re looking at around 6-8 hours from start to finish, making this recipe perfect for those busy weekdays when you want a hearty meal ready by dinner time. For more handy tips on slow cooking, check out The Kitchn for insights and hacks!

Nutritional Facts for Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken

Calories per serving

If you’re wondering about the calorie content in this delicious slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken, each serving packs approximately 350 calories. This makes it a satisfying option for a weekday meal without feeling overly heavy.

Protein content

One of the best aspects of this dish is its protein value. Each serving provides about 30 grams of protein. That’s fantastic for muscle maintenance and overall health, especially if you lead an active lifestyle!

Dietary considerations

This recipe is versatile, catering to various dietary needs. It’s gluten-free if you choose gluten-free broth or seasonings. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium chicken broth. For an alternative cooking method, check out information on swap-ins that work well for busy weeknights!

Feel free to explore other options here. With thoughtful adjustments, you can enjoy this slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken guilt-free.

FAQ about Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken! Just be aware that cooking time might increase. To ensure even cooking, you may want to thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before use. If you’re in a pinch, cooking from frozen is perfectly safe—just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What can I substitute for Parmesan garlic sauce?

If you’re out of Parmesan garlic sauce or looking for a change, there are several alternatives you can try:

• Alfredo sauce: This creamy option adds richness.
• Garlic butter sauce: Melted butter with minced garlic gives a nice kick.
• Homemade blend: Combine grated Parmesan, minced garlic, butter, and Italian herbs for a similar flavor profile.

Feel free to get creative! Cooking should be fun, and adapting recipes to fit your taste can lead to delicious discoveries.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken can be a lifesaver for busy days. Here’s how to store it properly:

• Refrigerate: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it!

When you’re ready to eat your leftovers, reheat them in the microwave or on the stove until they are heated through. For more tips on food storage, check out resources from the USDA.

With these FAQs, you’re all set to whip up a delightful slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken dish that will impress your friends and family! Happy cooking!

Conclusion on Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken

In wrapping up our delightful journey with slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken, it’s clear that this dish is a crowd-pleaser for busy professionals and home cooks alike. The rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan blend beautifully, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Not only does this recipe save time, but it also allows you to enjoy a healthy, comforting meal with minimal effort.

As you gather around the table with friends or family, sharing this dish will surely ignite conversations and smiles. For meal prep enthusiasts, it also makes for excellent leftovers. Why not explore more delightful slow cooker recipes like those at The Kitchn or EatingWell? Embrace the comfort of home-cooked meals, and watch how the joy of cooking can brighten your day!

Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken: Juicy Chicken & Potatoes Recipe

Print Recipe

This delicious slow cooker recipe features tender chicken and potatoes infused with rich parmesan and garlic flavors.

• Author: Souzan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours
• Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 chicken breasts
• 2 pounds baby potatoes
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. Add the baby potatoes on top of the chicken.
3. In a bowl, mix together parmesan cheese, garlic, chicken broth, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the mixture over the chicken and potatoes.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add rosemary or thyme.
• Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken breasts.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast and 1/2 cup potatoes
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: Slow Cooker, Parmesan, Garlic, Chicken, Potatoes