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This comforting crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes recipe delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender while the potatoes absorb all the delicious garlic parmesan flavors, creating a meal that's both satisfying and crowd-pleasing.
I first made this dish when my sister and her family visited unexpectedly. With just 15 minutes of prep time, I was able to spend the afternoon catching up while the slow cooker did all the work. Now it's become our go-to Sunday dinner when we want something delicious without the fuss.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provide lean protein and become incredibly tender in the slow cooker
- Medium potatoes: add hearty substance look for Yukon golds for their buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the sauce
- Olive oil: helps the seasonings adhere and prevents sticking
- Garlic powder: infuses deep flavor throughout the dish
- Paprika: adds subtle smokiness and beautiful color
- Italian seasoning: brings an aromatic herb blend that complements the garlic perfectly
- Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce: creates the signature creamy coating without any extra work
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: creates that irresistible melty finish use freshly shredded for best melting
How To Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Potatoes
- Prepare the potatoes:
- Wash potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt then dice them into uniform small cubes about 1/2 inch in size. Consistent sizing ensures they cook evenly and absorb maximum flavor during the slow cooking process.
- Season the base:
- Lightly coat your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the diced potatoes as the foundation layer. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder and paprika. Add the minced garlic and toss everything together until potatoes are evenly coated. This seasoned base will flavor the entire dish as it cooks.
- Prepare the chicken:
- Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes for quick and even cooking. In a bowl, combine chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder and Italian seasoning, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. The multiple seasonings create layers of flavor that develop beautifully during the slow cooking process.
- Layer and sauce:
- Place the seasoned chicken pieces atop the potato layer. Pour Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce over the chicken, using enough to thoroughly coat each piece. The sauce will gradually melt into both the chicken and potatoes, infusing everything with creamy garlic parmesan goodness.
- Slow cook to perfection:
- Cover and set your slow cooker to low heat for 6 hours. This gentle, extended cooking time allows flavors to meld while ensuring the chicken stays moist and tender. The potatoes will gradually soften and absorb the flavorful sauce that drips down from the chicken.
- Finish with cheese:
- After cooking is complete, gently stir everything to distribute the sauce evenly. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top, then cover again until fully melted, about 5 minutes. The cheese creates a creamy, gooey finish that brings everything together.
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The minced garlic is truly the secret hero of this recipe. While you might be tempted to use jarred garlic for convenience, taking the extra minute to mince fresh cloves makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor. My grandmother always insisted on fresh garlic in her slow cooker recipes, and after trying both, I have to agree the aromatic punch is worth the minimal effort.
Make Ahead Options
This dish is actually even better the next day after flavors have had time to meld together. You can prepare everything up to the cooking stage and refrigerate overnight in the slow cooker insert. Simply place it in your slow cooker the next morning and turn it on. The cold ingredients may need an extra 30 minutes of cooking time, but the convenience is worth it.
Smart Substitutions
If you cannot find Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce, you can create a similar flavor using 1/2 cup of ranch dressing mixed with 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese and 2 teaspoons of garlic powder. For a lighter version, substitute chicken thighs with boneless skinless chicken breasts and use reduced fat mozzarella. Sweet potatoes can replace regular potatoes for additional nutritional benefits and a slightly different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete meal, serve alongside steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus that can catch any extra sauce. If serving guests, consider offering warm crusty bread on the side for sopping up the delicious garlic parmesan sauce left on plates. A chilled Pinot Grigio or light Chardonnay complements the creamy flavors perfectly.
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Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to revive the creaminess of the sauce. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For best results when freezing, slightly undercook the potatoes so they don’t become mushy when reheated.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent potatoes from becoming mushy?
Dice the potatoes into uniform, small cubes to ensure they cook evenly without overcooking. Use firm potato varieties like Yukon Gold for better texture in slow-cooked dishes.
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly and remain juicy during slow cooking. Ensure they are boneless and cut into similarly sized pieces for even cooking.
- → What can I substitute for Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce?
You can use a homemade garlic parmesan sauce by combining minced garlic, butter, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and seasonings to your taste.
- → Is this meal freezer-friendly?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, portion it into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- → How do I avoid sticking in the crockpot?
Ensure the crockpot is lightly coated with non-stick spray or a thin layer of oil before adding the ingredients. This helps prevent sticking and makes clean-up easier.
- → Can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, include a dash of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes in the seasoning. You can also opt for a spicier version of garlic parmesan sauce.