When life gets busy but you still crave a hearty, home-cooked meal, this Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is the perfect answer. Tender, juicy chicken and buttery baby potatoes slowly cook together in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce that’s bursting with rich, savory flavor. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but requires almost no effort—just set it, forget it, and come back to pure comfort.
The first time I made this, the smell alone convinced me it was going to be a winner. Once, I added fresh spinach and mushrooms during the last half hour of cooking—it made the meal extra hearty and colorful. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this creamy crockpot dish is guaranteed to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is everything you want in a slow-cooked meal: flavorful, tender, and creamy with minimal prep. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while you get on with your day. The combination of garlic, butter, Parmesan, and herbs creates an irresistible sauce that coats every bite of chicken and potato.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes: Rich, Creamy, and Effortlessly Delicious
- Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Tender, juicy chicken and perfectly cooked potatoes slow-cooked in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce — a creamy, flavorful, and easy one-pot meal made right in your crockpot.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Lightly grease your crockpot with cooking spray or a little butter.
- Place halved baby potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot and layer chicken breasts on top.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Pour the garlic Parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken and potatoes.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
- Stir gently before serving to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness and flavor.
- Add steamed broccoli or green beans just before serving for a complete meal.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 20 minutes of cooking or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water).
- This recipe also works great with shredded chicken for meal prep bowls.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 6 hrs
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Tender, juicy, and perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Baby potatoes (halved) – They cook beautifully in the crockpot and absorb all that buttery flavor.
Butter – Adds richness and depth to the dish.
Garlic (minced) – The flavor base of the sauce; adds aromatic warmth.
Heavy cream – Gives the sauce a smooth, creamy texture.
Parmesan cheese (grated) – Adds nutty, salty richness.
Italian seasoning – Balances the creaminess with herby notes.
Paprika – Adds mild warmth and color.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning.
Fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish and a touch of brightness.
Directions
- Prepare the crockpot: Lightly grease your slow cooker with nonstick spray or a touch of butter.
- Layer the ingredients: Place the halved baby potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the chicken breasts or thighs on top.
- Make the garlic butter mixture: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour this over the chicken and potatoes.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
- Add cream and cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Cover again and let the sauce thicken slightly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot with steamed vegetables, rice, or garlic bread.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people and takes about 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high, with just 10 minutes of prep time. It’s ideal for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal with minimal effort.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
Variations and Customizations
Garlic Ranch Chicken and Potatoes
Swap the Italian seasoning for a tablespoon of ranch seasoning mix for a tangy twist.
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Add a squeeze of lemon juice and zest before serving for a fresh, bright flavor.
Loaded Chicken and Potatoes
Top with crispy bacon bits, cheddar cheese, and green onions for a loaded baked potato feel.
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Version
Add sliced mushrooms and spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra texture and nutrition.
Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
Herb Butter Chicken
Use fresh thyme and rosemary instead of Italian seasoning for a fragrant, herby flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking and safety.
2. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be slightly lighter and less creamy.
3. Do I need to brown the chicken first?
No, but browning adds extra flavor if you have a few extra minutes.
4. Can I use other potatoes?
Yes, Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work—just cut them into smaller pieces.
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute coconut cream and vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
6. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely—broccoli, carrots, or green beans are great additions in the last hour of cooking.
7. How can I thicken the sauce more?
Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes.
8. What if my sauce is too thick?
Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out.
9. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes—thighs are extra tender and flavorful in slow-cooked recipes.
10. What’s the best way to serve it?
Serve over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is the kind of meal that makes you look forward to dinner all day. With tender chicken, buttery potatoes, and a creamy, garlicky sauce, it’s comfort food at its finest—rich, flavorful, and effortless. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy Sunday meal, this recipe proves that the best dishes are often the simplest to make.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!