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 potatoes; 2 tbsp olive oil; 0.5 tsp salt; 0.5 tsp pepper; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 tbsp minced garlic; Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce (just enough to cover chicken); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Introduction to Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

When life gets busy, having a delicious meal that practically cooks itself is a dream come true. Enter crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes. This hearty dish not only saves you time but also allows for a world of flavor to meld together effortlessly. With minimal prep and cleanup, crockpot meals are perfect for the young professional juggling a hectic schedule. You can set it and forget it, letting your slow cooker work its magic while you tackle your to-do list or unwind after a long day.

Why choose crockpot meals? For one, they offer unmatched convenience. Just toss in your ingredients, set your timer, and you can come home to a warm, comforting meal that’s ready to eat. Plus, there's something special about the way flavors develop over low, slow heat—really allowing that garlic parmesan goodness to shine.

Studies show that around 70% of busy professionals opt for quick meals during the week. Choosing a crockpot strategy not only makes dinner easier but also encourages healthier eating by avoiding takeout. Curious to find out how to create this irresistible dish? Let’s dive right into the recipe!

Ingredients for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

When it comes to preparing Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes, gathering the right ingredients is essential for achieving that creamy, garlicky flavor that everyone loves. Here's a breakdown to get you started.

Essential Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts: The star of the dish! Look for lean pieces for best results.
5 medium-sized potatoes: Try Yukon Gold or red potatoes; they hold up beautifully during cooking.
2 tablespoon olive oil: This helps to create a flavorful base for our potatoes.
Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to spice things up.
2 tablespoon minced garlic: Because who doesn’t love garlic?
Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Use just enough to generously cover your chicken.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This is what makes it all award-winning and melty!

Optional Add-Ins

Feeling adventurous? You can elevate your crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes with some delightful add-ins! Consider tossing in:

Vegetables: Carrots or bell peppers add color and nutrients.
Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil gives a nice aromatic touch.
Cream: A splash of heavy cream can make the dish even richer.

With these ingredients in hand, you're just a few steps away from savoring a delicious meal. For tips on choosing the best potatoes, check this guide from Food Network. Happy cooking!

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

Cooking can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially after a long day at work. That's where your trusty crockpot comes in! This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for busy professionals. Let’s dive into the steps for preparing this hearty meal.

Prepare the potatoes

Start by washing your medium-sized potatoes thoroughly. Keeping the skins on adds texture, flavor, and nutrients. Once clean, chop them into small, even-sized cubes to ensure they cook uniformly. The charm of this dish lies in the tender potatoes that soak up all the zesty flavors, so take your time here!

After cutting, spray your crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Add in the cubed potatoes and drizzle them with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Generously sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika over them—this is where the flavor journey begins! Toss everything together until the potatoes are well-coated in seasoning.

Season and layer

Next, it’s time to layer the spices for an extra flavor boost. You can customize your seasoning blend according to your taste. The way the spices meld with the potatoes and chicken is essential for that mouthwatering taste, so don’t skip this step. Start with a solid foundation of seasoning by mixing in 2 tablespoons of minced garlic into the potatoes, and stir until everything is well combined.

Prep the chicken

Now, let’s move on to the star of the dish: the chicken! Take your pound of chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized cubes. This not only helps the chicken cook faster but also makes for easier serving later.

Season the chicken with ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper, and 1 teaspoon each of paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning for that aromatic touch. Finally, don’t forget to add a generous amount of Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce. Just enough to coat the chicken will do, ensuring a rich flavor profile.

Combine and cook

Time to bring everything together! Layer the seasoned chicken on top of the potatoes in your crockpot. This way, the juices from the chicken will drip down and flavor the potatoes as they cook. Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender to your liking.

Add cheese and serve

Just before serving, stir everything together to mix those delightful flavors. Top with a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, allowing it to melt as you keep the lid on for a few minutes. This ooey-gooey cheesiness is the final touch that elevates your crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes to a whole new level!

Garnish with some freshly chopped herbs if you like, and feel free to serve with a side of ranch for dipping. Enjoy your meal and the compliments that will surely follow!

For more delicious ideas, check out resources on meal planning and crockpot techniques from America’s Test Kitchen or Serious Eats for inspiration. Happy cooking!

Variations on Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Vegetables

Looking to elevate your crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes? Try adding seasonal vegetables! Carrots, bell peppers, and green beans not only add color but also nutritional value. Simply chop your favorite veggies and toss them in with the potatoes at the start. They’ll soak up all those savory flavors while cooking, making each bite even more delightful. This variation is a great way to make the dish a complete meal.

Spicy Garlic Parmesan Version

If you crave a bit of a kick, consider a spicy twist on the crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes. Mix in some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce along with the garlic parmesan sauce. This adds a fiery pop that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese and tender chicken. You can adjust the heat to your taste, making it a fun opportunity to explore different spice levels! For more spicy takes on chicken dishes, check out Spicy Food Lovers.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Choosing the Right Chicken

When making Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes, opt for boneless chicken breasts for tender, juicy results. They cook evenly and absorb flavors well. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a richer taste. Just ensure they’re cut into uniform pieces for consistent cooking!

That Perfect Potato Texture

For the best texture, select waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they hold their shape better during slow cooking. Cut them into small cubes for even cooking, and feel free to leave the skin on for extra flavor and nutrition. Just remember to check for doneness around the 5-hour mark—you want them fork-tender but not mushy!

Don’t forget to accompany your meal with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delightful sauce! For more tips on choosing the right ingredients, you might find this guide on chicken cuts and potato varieties helpful!

Serving suggestions for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Pairings for a full meal

To create a delightful dining experience with your crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes, consider serving it with a refreshing side salad. A simple arugula salad topped with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors beautifully. You could also pair it with some roasted veggies for a vibrant meal. If you want a heartier option, crusty garlic bread or steamed green beans work wonders too!

Suggested garnishes

Garnishing is where you can get creative! Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top of your finished dish for a pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can add an extra layer of flavor, while a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese will enhance that cheesy goodness. For a little kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for spice. Enjoy!

For more ways to elevate your meals, check out this seasoning guide for ideas!

Time breakdown for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Preparation time

Getting everything ready for your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a breeze! You'll need about 15 minutes to wash, chop, and season your ingredients.

Cooking time

Once you’ve prepped your ingredients, just pop everything into the crockpot and let it do its magic for around 6 hours on low.

Total time

In total, you're looking at approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes from prep to table. That’s right—set it and forget it while you tackle other tasks! Perfect for busy evenings!

Nutritional Facts for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

When it comes to enjoying a delicious meal without the guilt, knowing the nutritional facts is key. Here’s a quick overview of what you’re biting into with Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes:

Calories
One serving of this tasty dish comes in at around 400-500 calories, depending on portion size and how much sauce you use. Perfect for a satisfying dinner!

Protein
Thanks to the chicken, expect a solid protein boost with about 35 grams per serving. Getting your protein in has never been more delicious!

Sodium
Keep in mind that sodium levels can vary significantly, with around 800-1,200 mg per serving, mainly due to the garlic parmesan sauce. If you're watching your salt intake, consider using a low-sodium alternative.

For further details on nutrition and healthy eating, check out reliable sites like the USDA FoodData Central or Nutrition.gov. Eating well has never been so easy, or so tasty!

FAQ about Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Using frozen chicken in your crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes is perfectly fine. Just remember to adjust your cooking time, as frozen chicken can take a bit longer to reach safe internal temperatures. If cooking from frozen, aim for 7-8 hours on low to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.

How do I store leftovers?
If you have any delicious leftovers (which is likely!), let them cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I adjust the seasoning?
Definitely! One of the best things about this crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to add more garlic, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or even some fresh herbs for an extra flavor kick. Don't be shy—experiment until you find your perfect blend!

For more tips on customizing your crockpot recipes, check out this guide. Enjoy!

Conclusion on Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food that combines tenderness and flavor effortlessly. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish allows you to set it and forget it. The succulent chicken paired with creamy potatoes makes for a hearty meal that everyone will love!