
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
There’s something magical about a dish that warms your heart and fills your belly. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is just that—a comforting meal that feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re juggling a busy workweek or planning a cozy dinner with friends, this recipe is your go-to solution. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for impressing loved ones or treating yourself after a long day. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
This dish is a game-changer for anyone who craves comfort food without the fuss. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work. The rich, creamy sauce envelops tender chicken and potatoes, creating a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are juicy and tender, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Baby potatoes: Their small size means they cook evenly and add a lovely texture to the dish.
- Olive oil: A splash of this adds richness and helps the seasonings stick to the chicken.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a robust flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and potatoes.
- Chicken broth: This forms the base of the sauce, adding moisture and savory goodness.
- Heavy cream: The star of the show, creating that luscious, creamy texture we all love.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor that complements the cream beautifully.
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of this vibrant herb adds a pop of color and freshness when serving.
For those looking to lighten things up, consider substituting half-and-half for the heavy cream. If you want to sneak in some extra veggies, toss in steamed broccoli or green beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by grabbing your boneless, skinless chicken thighs. In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together, ensuring each piece of chicken is well-coated. This step is crucial; it infuses the chicken with flavor, making every bite delicious. Trust me, the aroma alone will have you excited to cook!
Step 2: Layer the Potatoes
Next, take your halved baby potatoes and place them in the bottom of the slow cooker. Spread them out evenly to create a cozy bed for the chicken. This layering not only helps the potatoes absorb all the tasty juices but also ensures they cook perfectly. You’ll love how they turn tender and flavorful as they soak up the creamy sauce!
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Now, let’s whip up that irresistible sauce! In a separate bowl, combine chicken broth, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk them together until smooth and creamy. This mixture is the heart of the dish, bringing richness and depth to the chicken and potatoes. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a velvety sauce that you’ll want to savor with every bite.
Step 4: Cook the Dish
Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and potatoes in the slow cooker. Cover it up and set your slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The key here is patience; let the slow cooker work its magic. When it’s done, the chicken will be tender and juicy, while the potatoes will be perfectly cooked. You’ll be amazed at how easy this is!
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is cooked, carefully remove the chicken and potatoes from the slow cooker and place them on a serving platter. If you like, stir the sauce in the slow cooker to thicken it slightly before pouring it over the chicken and potatoes. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Now, dig in and enjoy this comforting meal!
Tips for Success
- Always season your chicken well; it makes a world of difference in flavor.
- Don’t rush the cooking time; low and slow yields the best results.
- For extra creaminess, add a bit more Parmesan cheese to the sauce.
- Feel free to experiment with herbs; fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, so make extra!
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker: Essential for this recipe; a Dutch oven can work too if you prefer stovetop cooking.
- Mixing bowl: For combining the chicken and seasonings; any large bowl will do.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending the sauce; a fork can also get the job done.
- Measuring cups: Handy for precise ingredient amounts; you can eyeball it if you’re feeling adventurous!
Variations
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Mushroom Medley: Toss in sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the dish.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute baby potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lighter version.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad pairs perfectly with the creamy dish.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled Chardonnay complements the richness beautifully.
- Presentation: Serve in a rustic bowl for a cozy, inviting look.
FAQs about Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Absolutely! While I love the tenderness of chicken thighs, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can work just as well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster.
How can I make this dish dairy-free? To create a dairy-free version of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the cheese, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe? Yes! Feel free to toss in some steamed broccoli, green beans, or even carrots during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This not only adds nutrition but also enhances the dish’s color and flavor.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes? Yes, you can freeze this dish! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating moments. The aroma wafting through your kitchen, the laughter shared around the table, and the satisfaction of a dish that pleases everyone—it’s all part of the experience. This recipe is a reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can whip up something truly special. So, gather your loved ones, serve this delightful dish, and relish the joy it brings to your home. Trust me, it’s a meal worth savoring!
Print
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes: A Must-Try!
- Total Time: 6-7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a delicious and comforting dish featuring tender chicken thighs and baby potatoes in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the seasonings.
- Place the halved baby potatoes in the bottom of a slow cooker. Layer the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the potatoes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Pour this mixture over the chicken and potatoes in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken and potatoes from the slow cooker and place them on a serving platter.
- If desired, stir the sauce in the slow cooker to combine and thicken slightly. Pour the sauce over the chicken and potatoes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Add steamed broccoli or green beans in the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra veggies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg