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This crockpot Parmesan garlic chicken with potatoes brings amazing comfort food without much work. The mix of soft chicken pieces and smooth, cheesy potatoes makes a filling one-pot dinner that basically cooks on its own while you're busy elsewhere.
I first tried making this when I needed something that would cook by itself during busy evenings of homework help. The first time we had it, even my fussiest child asked for more, and it quickly became a family favorite.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: Form the filling base and soak up all the tasty flavors. Yukon golds work best with their rich taste and texture that doesn't fall apart during slow cooking
- Olive oil: Coats the potatoes so they cook evenly and don't stick together
- Kosher salt: Brings out all the flavors with a gentler touch. Its bigger grains spread nicely throughout everything
- Black pepper: Gives a bit of warmth and depth that works well with the creamy parts
- Paprika: Adds a light smoky taste and nice color to your finished meal
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Stay moist and soft when diced up. They really take on the garlic Parmesan flavors
- Creamy Parmesan garlic sauce: This is what makes everything taste amazing. Buffalo Wild Wings brand works great for that restaurant-quality taste
- Water or chicken stock: Makes the sauce just thin enough to cover everything properly while cooking
- Mozzarella cheese: Gives that lovely stretchy pull and mild flavor that works well without taking over
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a strong savory kick that makes the whole dish taste even better
- Fresh parsley: Adds freshness to balance the rich flavors and a pop of green color before serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Potato Base:
- Mix potatoes with olive oil and seasonings in the slow cooker until they're all coated nicely. This builds a tasty foundation for your meal. Don't rush this step—make sure the spices are evenly spread.
- Layer the Chicken:
- Put the cut chicken on top of the potatoes and add the remaining salt and pepper. Keeping chicken on top helps it cook properly and stops it from getting too soft at the bottom.
- Create the Sauce Mixture:
- Mix the Parmesan garlic sauce with water or stock until it's smooth. This step really matters for getting the right thickness that will coat everything during cooking. The liquid helps flavors get into all ingredients.
- Pour and Set:
- Pour the sauce mix evenly over everything in the slow cooker. Set to High for 4 hours or Low for 6 hours depending on your timing. Don't stir yet—just let the layers cook as they are.
- Add the Cheese Finish:
- When there's about 20 minutes left, sprinkle both cheeses on top. Put the lid back on quickly so the cheese melts into a yummy gooey layer that brings everything together.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle fresh parsley on top just before serving to add color and fresh flavor that balances out the richness.
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When I first made this, I wasn't sure about using bottled sauce but it turned out to be the magic ingredient. The Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic sauce has this amazing flavor you couldn't get without hours of cooking. My husband now wants this at least twice every month and always calls dibs on the leftovers for lunch.
Storage and Reheating
This meal stays good in a sealed container in your fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually get better overnight and lots of folks think it tastes best on the second day. To warm up single portions, microwave for 2 minutes and stir halfway. For bigger amounts, warm it covered in a 325°F oven for about 20 minutes until hot throughout. If it seems dry when reheating, just add a splash of milk or broth.
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Perfect Substitutions
This dish works with whatever you've got in your kitchen. Chicken thighs can replace chicken breasts and actually stay juicier during long cooking. Red potatoes or russets can swap in for Yukon golds but might need slightly different cooking times. Can't find Buffalo Wild Wings sauce? Any creamy garlic Parmesan dressing works fine, or make your own by mixing 3/4 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan and 2 tablespoons minced garlic.
Serving Suggestions
This meal stands on its own but goes really well with a basic green salad with lemon dressing for a fresh contrast to the rich main dish. For a bigger meal, add some crusty garlic bread that's perfect for soaking up all that yummy sauce. A glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely since the tangy wine helps cut through the cheesy richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap boneless chicken for bone-in pieces?
Sure you can use bone-in chicken. Just cook it a bit longer to make sure it's fully done.
- → Which potatoes work best in this dish?
Try Yukon gold or red potatoes since they don't fall apart during the long cooking time.
- → Is it possible to make the sauce from scratch?
Absolutely! Mix cream, Parmesan, crushed garlic, and your favorite spices for a homemade version.
- → How can I make a healthier version?
Go with reduced-fat cheese and lighter sauce, then swap some potatoes for veggies like cauliflower or broccoli.
- → Can I get everything ready beforehand?
You bet! Put all ingredients in the cooker ahead of time, stick it in the fridge, and turn it on when you're ready.
- → What can I sprinkle on top before serving?
Fresh chopped parsley or a few red pepper flakes will add nice color and extra flavor.