Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a melt-in-your-mouth dinner that does all the heavy lifting for you, let me introduce you to my absolute comfort food champion: Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes. This set-it-and-forget-it wonder wraps juicy chicken thighs and buttery baby potatoes in a garlicky, cheesy hug, filling your entire kitchen with the most irresistible aromas. With simple steps and minimal prep, you’ll get rich, savory flavors and hearty textures—all with barely any cleanup. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, you’ll keep coming back to this dish again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a starring role, from the juicy chicken and pillowy potatoes to the punchy garlic and tangy Parmesan. Together, they create layers of comfort and flavor that make this dish truly unforgettable.

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: They add unbeatable richness and keep the meat super juicy during the slow cooking process.
• Garlic salt: Instantly infuses savory umami into both meat and potatoes—no need for extra salt!
• Paprika: Adds warm color and a subtle, smoky kick to tie everything together.
• Black pepper: Brings bright, peppery balance and a mild heat to each bite.
• Fresh garlic (minced): The star of the show—three cloves pack a major punch of flavor that makes the whole dish sing.
• Olive oil: Helps crisp the chicken and coats the potatoes to ensure tender, flavorful results.
• Baby potatoes (halved): These little spuds soak up all the juices and seasonings for maximum comfort-food bliss.
• Shredded Parmesan: A shower of cheese right before serving adds richness and melty, tangy goodness.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish): Gives each plate a pop of color and fresh flavor just before serving.

How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Step 1: Prep Your Flavor-packed Seasoning Blend

In a small bowl, mix together the garlic salt, paprika, and black pepper. This simple blend is the base of everything—the start of that crave-worthy garlicky, savory flavor. Give it a quick stir with a spoon, knowing that every delicious bite begins here.

Step 2: Season the Chicken Thighs

Grab your chicken thighs and sprinkle half of the seasoning mixture all over the skin side. You’re giving the chicken a head start so the flavors absorb into each bite, making that skin golden, crispy, and bursting with taste.

Step 3: Sear for Golden Goodness

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Nestle the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for about 2 minutes—just until you have that gorgeous golden crust. That little bit of browning is the secret to richer flavor in the final dish.

Step 4: Mix the Seasoned Oil for the Potatoes

Add the remaining seasoning mix to your minced fresh garlic, and stir in the last 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This garlicky oil is what’s going to turn your baby potatoes into something truly spectacular.

Step 5: Prep and Season the Potatoes

Halve—or quarter if they’re larger—your baby potatoes so they cook evenly. Toss them well in the garlic-infused oil until every piece is coated. This is where those potatoes start soaking up all the magic.

Step 6: Layer Everything in the Slow Cooker

Spread the seasoned potatoes in the bottom of your slow cooker, then arrange the seared chicken thighs on top. The juices will drip down, seasoning every inch of the potatoes below.

Step 7: Set and Forget

Pop the lid on and set your slow cooker: cook on LOW for 6-7 hours (ultra-tender and juicy), or HIGH for 3-4 hours (a bit quicker but still totally delicious). Go about your day while the Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes works its magic!

Step 8: Add Parmesan and Parsley

About 5 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded Parmesan all over the top. Let it melt right into the chicken and potatoes. Finish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness and color.

Step 9: Time to Serve

Scoop heaping portions of chicken and potatoes onto plates, making sure everyone gets plenty of cheesy, garlicky goodness. Prepare to bask in compliments!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Garnishes

A generous scattering of fresh parsley adds gorgeous color and a hint of freshness. For extra flair, shower on a few extra Parmesan shavings or even some finely chopped chives if you’re in a mood to impress.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty as-is, but a crisp green salad or simply steamed broccoli adds color and contrast. Garlic bread or a hot, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up all those cheesy, garlic-infused juices that pool at the bottom of your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic, family-style dinner, bring the slow cooker insert straight to the table and let everyone serve themselves. Or, plate each serving atop a bed of creamy mashed cauliflower for an extra-cozy twist. For date night, arrange everything on a big wooden board and scatter with extra herbs for a modern, “grazing-style” presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes keep beautifully! Store any extras in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld and deepen overnight, making lunch the next day feel like a special treat.

Freezing

Want to stash away a batch for later? Let everything cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze the chicken and potatoes together so the flavors stay balanced when you reheat.

Reheating

To reheat, either use the microwave in short bursts (stirring between intervals) or pop everything in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F until hot. If things look a little dry, a splash of chicken broth or water brings the moisture right back. Don’t forget a fresh sprinkle of Parmesan when serving again!

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in thighs?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts work well, though they may cook a bit faster and could turn out slightly drier. For the juiciest results, try 3-4 hours on LOW and make sure both chicken and potatoes are fully cooked before serving.

Can I add vegetables besides potatoes?

Yes—you can tuck carrots, green beans, or even halved Brussels sprouts into the slow cooker with the potatoes. Just keep in mind firmer veggies work best since they’ll hold up over several hours of cooking.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken first?

Searing adds extra color and flavor, but if you’re pressed for time, you can skip it. The skin won’t be as crispy, but the dish will still be irresistibly tasty and packed with bold, garlicky flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Sure thing! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to fit everything comfortably. You may need to extend the cooking time a bit, especially if the pot is crowded—check that all chicken pieces reach 165°F and potatoes are fork-tender before serving.

Does this work with other types of potatoes?

Definitely! Any waxy variety, like Yukon Gold or even red potatoes, will soak up the seasonings beautifully. Just cut them into bite-size chunks so they cook evenly alongside the chicken.

Final Thoughts

There’s something endlessly satisfying about a dinner that’s both incredibly easy and loved by absolutely everyone. If you’re craving a meal that practically cooks itself yet delivers flavors that linger long past the last bite, give Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes a spot on your dinner lineup. I promise, you’ll be making it on repeat!

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