Name: Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 375 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts; 5 medium sized potatoes; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 tbsp minced garlic; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce (just enough to cover chicken)

Introduction to Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

When it comes to weeknight dinners, we all crave something that's not only delicious but also stress-free. Enter Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes. This dish encapsulates the joy of a hearty meal without the fuss of extensive prep or cleanup. Picture coming home after a long day to the irresistible aroma of savory chicken and crispy potatoes—pure comfort food!

Why Choose a Crockpot Meal?

Using a Crockpot is particularly appealing for busy young professionals, as it allows you to set it and forget it. You can toss in your ingredients in the morning, and by dinnertime, you'll have a beautifully cooked meal waiting for you. Moreover, slow cooking often enhances the flavors, making your chicken tender and your potatoes perfectly seasoned. Research from the American Heart Association suggests that cooking methods that involve slower times can reduce unhealthy fats and promote flavorful dishes, making your meals not just enjoyable but also healthier.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and versatility. You can customize with various seasonings or swap out chicken for other proteins based on your cravings. So gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this recipe that will quickly become a family favorite! For meal planning inspiration, check out this meal prep guide that complements our delicious crockpot dish!

Ingredients for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Essential ingredients you’ll need

To whip up a delightful batch of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes, you’ll need some key ingredients to get started:

1 lb chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless is preferable for easy cooking.
5 medium-sized potatoes: Go for Yukon Gold or red potatoes for their creaminess.
2 tablespoon olive oil: A little drizzle goes a long way in adding flavor.
2 tablespoon minced garlic: Fresh garlic elevates this dish to the next level.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty cheese is the perfect finishing touch.

Pantry staples for additional flavor

Enhance your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes with these common pantry staples:

Salt and pepper: Essential for general seasoning.
Garlic powder and paprika: Great for seasoning the potatoes.
Onion powder and Italian seasoning: Adds that classic Italian flavor.
Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Just enough to generously coat the chicken for that rich taste.

Mixing in these ingredients will definitely elevate your dish. If you’re curious about how to choose the best potatoes, check out this article for tips!

Step-by-step preparation of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Wash and cube the potatoes

Begin by giving your medium-sized potatoes a good wash to remove any dirt. Once clean, chop them into small, bite-sized cubes. The size is crucial here; if they're too large, they might take longer to cook evenly. Make sure to set them aside after cubing, as they're the perfect base for our Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes dish.

Prepare the Crockpot

Next up, grab your trusty Crockpot, and set it up for a day of flavorful fun. Give the inside a nice spray with cooking spray to ensure that nothing sticks during the cooking process. This will make clean-up afterward a breeze, and no one enjoys scraping off burnt bits from their favorite kitchen gadget!

Season and add the potatoes

Now it’s time to season those freshly cubed potatoes. In the Crockpot, drizzle some olive oil over the potatoes, then sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You’re in control here—feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences. Toss the potatoes gently to coat them evenly with all that flavor. The aroma will surely get your stomach growling in anticipation.

Cube and season the chicken

While the potatoes are soaking up all that good stuff, let’s turn our attention to the chicken. Take your chicken breasts and cut them into cubes that are roughly the same size as your potatoes. Next, season them generously with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This makes a huge difference in flavor, so don't skip this step!

Combine chicken with sauce

Now, it’s time for a fun part—sauce! Add enough Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce to the chicken to coat it nicely. This is where your dish gets its rich, savory profile, so don’t be shy! Feel free to adjust the amount based on your love for garlic and Parmesan flavors. Mix everything well and set the chicken aside for a few moments.

Set the cooking time

Once everything is prepped and seasoned, it’s time to layer those ingredients in the Crockpot. Start with the potatoes at the bottom, followed by our deliciously seasoned chicken on top. Cover the Crockpot and set it to cook on low for about six hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Stir and melt the cheese

As your meal nears completion, take a moment to enjoy the wonderful aromas wafting through your kitchen. About 15 minutes before serving, stir everything gently and add the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Cover and let it sit until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot, perhaps with a drizzle of ranch dressing on top—it's a delightful way to enhance this already scrumptious dish.

And there you have it! Your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is ready to be served. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for making your weeknight dinners more enjoyable. Enjoy each bite!

Variations on Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Exploring variations of your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes can keep dinner exciting! One great option is to add veggies for a complete meal. Feel free to toss in some carrots, bell peppers, or green beans. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also contribute valuable nutrients to your dish.

Another fun twist is to try different sauces or seasonings. If you love a little heat, swap the garlic Parmesan sauce for buffalo sauce. Alternatively, try a honey mustard blend for a touch of sweetness. These subtle changes can transform your cooking routine and surprise your taste buds!

For more tips on customizing this dish, check out this guide on seasoning basics.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Check for Doneness

To ensure your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is deliciously ready, always check the chicken for an internal temperature of 165°F. The potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork, indicating they’re perfectly tender. If you notice that either isn’t quite there yet, simply close the lid and allow it to cook for a little longer.

Adjust Cooking Time as Needed

Every crockpot behaves differently! If you're using larger chicken pieces or a higher altitude, you might need to adjust the cooking time. Typically, this dish takes about 6 hours on low, but feel free to do a quick taste test. If it’s not to your liking, give it an additional 30 minutes and check again. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process—don’t be afraid to make it your own! For more crockpot tips, check out this helpful guide.

Happy cooking!

Serving suggestions for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Pair with a fresh salad

One of the best ways to balance the richness of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is by serving it with a vibrant, fresh salad. Consider a simple mixed greens salad drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the hearty flavors. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and maybe even avocado for extra creaminess. This adds not just color but also vital nutrients to your meal!

Enhance with sides like garlic bread

If you're craving extra comfort, garlic bread is a fantastic addition. The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the savory chicken and tender potatoes perfectly. Think of it as the ideal vehicle for sopping up any leftover sauce—definitely a must for the sauce lovers out there! You could even try a side of steamed vegetables for a wholesome touch.

Ready to elevate your dinner experience? Enjoy!

Time breakdown for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Preparation time
Getting your ingredients ready is a breeze! Spend about 10 minutes washing, cutting the potatoes, and seasoning the chicken.

Cooking time
Once you’ve prepped, it’s time to set your Crockpot! Let it work its magic on low heat for 6 hours while you go about your day.

Total time
Altogether, the journey from start to savor will take you around 6 hours and 10 minutes. Not bad for a delicious homemade meal, right? Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends!

If you're seeking more ideas or instant inspiration, check out the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe over at The Kitchn.

Nutritional Facts for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

When it comes to enjoying a wholesome meal like Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes, understanding its nutritional profile can be essential. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories

This comforting dish typically comes in around 400 calories per serving, making it a satisfying option without overindulging.

Protein

With about 35 grams of protein, this recipe delivers a hearty dose of energy that keeps you feeling full and nourished throughout your busy day.

Sodium

Keep an eye on the sodium content, which averages around 800 milligrams per serving. Season wisely, especially if you're watching your salt intake. If you prefer, you can use low-sodium alternatives to reduce this further.

By knowing these nutritional facts, you can make informed choices while enjoying this delightful meal. For more in-depth insights on healthy eating, check out the USDA's recommendations on nutrition. If you're curious about meal prepping or tailoring meals to your dietary needs, there are plenty of resources available online to help you customize dishes like this.

Understanding the balance of calories, protein, and sodium is just one step towards a healthier lifestyle, and who doesn’t want to enjoy delicious food while being mindful of their health?

FAQ about Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken when making your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes! Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary. You may need to add an extra hour to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender. To make it easier, consider thawing the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before tossing it in the Crockpot.

What if I don’t have a Crockpot?

If you don’t own a Crockpot, don’t worry! You can recreate this delicious recipe using an oven. Simply prepare the chicken and potatoes as instructed, then place everything in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and bake at 350°F (about 175°C) for similar cooking times. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally for even cooking!

Are there any substitutions for the potatoes?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for classic potatoes, you can experiment with alternatives like sweet potatoes, Yukon gold, or even cauliflower for a lower-carb option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since some substitutes may cook faster than regular potatoes. Enjoy your delicious creations!

Conclusion on Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a hassle-free dinner that delivers on flavor without demanding much time. Your busy schedule deserves easy meals—this dish perfectly combines hearty chicken, tender potatoes, and rich garlic Parmesan sauce. Try it today and enjoy comforting home-cooked goodness! For more meal inspiration, check out these easy weeknight recipes that fit seamlessly into your busy life.