Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Cook Time: 240 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings:

  • 2 pounds potatoes, cut into 1 - to 2-inch chunks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts, diced into 1 -inch pieces
  • 1 cup creamy Parmesan garlic sauce, such as Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce
  • 1/2 cup water or chicken stock
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, or to taste (optional)

Directions

  1. Combine potatoes, olive oil, 3/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and paprika in the bottom of a slow cooker. Stir until the potatoes are evenly coated.
  2. Place the diced chicken pieces on top of the potatoes. Sprinkle with the remaining salt and pepper.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Parmesan garlic sauce and water (or chicken stock) until well combined.
  4. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and potatoes in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is covered evenly.
  5. Cook on High for 4 hours, or on Low for 6 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender.
  6. In the last 20 minutes of cooking, add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan (if using). Cover and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Once cooked, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories 566
Total Fat 16g (21%)
Saturated Fat 6g (28%)
Cholesterol 148mg (49%)
Sodium 648mg (28%)
Total Carbohydrate 44g (16%)
Dietary Fiber 4g (15%)
Total Sugars 4g
Protein 59g (119%)
Vitamin C 22mg (24%)
Calcium 307mg (24%)
Iron 4mg (22%)
Potassium 1404mg (30%)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Nutrition information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

The Story Behind Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is a modern comfort food that combines the rich flavors of Italian-inspired Parmesan garlic sauce with the simplicity of slow-cooked chicken and potatoes. Its roots lie in the growing trend of convenience cooking in the United States during the late 20th century, when slow cookers became household staples. The dish reflects a fusion of Italian culinary influencethrough Parmesan cheese and garlicwith the classic American preference for hearty, all-in-one meals.

Regional Variations and Adaptations

While the dish is widely popular across the United States, subtle regional adaptations have emerged. In the Midwest, for example, creamier sauces and the addition of root vegetables like carrots and parsnips are common, creating a richer, heartier meal. Coastal regions may incorporate fresh herbs or a splash of white wine to lighten the sauce, while Southern versions often include paprika or cayenne for a slightly spicier kick. Despite variations, the base combination of tender chicken, golden potatoes, and creamy Parmesan garlic sauce remains consistent.

What Sets It Apart from Similar Dishes

Although similar recipes exist, such as Chicken Alfredo or Garlic Butter Chicken with potatoes, this slow cooker version stands out for its ease and integrated flavors. Unlike oven-baked casseroles, the slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb the sauce fully while the potatoes become infused with rich, garlicky goodness. The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, added at the end of cooking, creates a creamy, slightly crusted topping, distinguishing it from lighter pasta-based dishes or pan-seared chicken recipes.

Typical Serving Occasions

Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is most commonly served as a family dinner or a casual weeknight meal. It is particularly popular for gatherings during colder months due to its warming, comforting nature. The dish pairs well with simple side salads, steamed vegetables, or fresh bread, and is often presented in the slow cooker itself at informal family-style dinners, making it convenient and visually appealing.

Interesting Facts and Tips

This dish offers some fascinating culinary details. For instance, the slow cooking method enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes, while the Parmesan garlic sauce contributes both umami and subtle tanginess. Interestingly, despite being rich in flavor, this recipe can be easily customized for different dietary needs by substituting lower-fat cheeses or using skinless chicken thighs. Another fun fact is that the dishs versatility has led to creative leftoversmany cooks turn leftover portions into pasta toppings, sandwich fillings, or even mini chicken pot pies. The recipes adaptability and comforting profile have made it a favorite in home kitchens across the U.S., highlighting the enduring appeal of slow-cooked, cheesy, garlic-infused meals.

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FAQ about Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Leftovers of this dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled down to room temperature before storing it. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of water or chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much.

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts with other cuts, such as chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) or even bone-in pieces. If using bone-in chicken, you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

If you don't have the Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce, you can make your own by mixing equal parts of Alfredo sauce and garlic, or use a store-bought creamy garlic Parmesan sauce from another brand. Alternatively, you could use a mix of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.

Yes, you can bake this dish in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 60-90 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender. You may need to check on the dish during cooking and add a little more liquid (like chicken stock or water) if it seems too dry.

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes such as Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or even baby potatoes. Just make sure to cut them into chunks of similar size to ensure they cook evenly in the slow cooker.

If you prefer a less spicy version, you can reduce the amount of garlic Parmesan sauce or opt for a milder version of the sauce. Additionally, you can reduce or omit any added spices like paprika that contribute to the heat.

Yes, this dish can be made ahead. Simply follow the recipe instructions, let the dish cool, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the dish on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding extra liquid if needed.

Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the dish. Simply layer them with the potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker, and they will cook along with the chicken.

This dish pairs well with a side of green beans, corn, or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, serve it with rice, pasta, or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, or provolone. Mozzarella provides a creamy texture, but you can swap it for a cheese you prefer or have on hand.

Comments

Jason Adams

03/19/2024 10:36:51 AM

Can someone please advise on a substitute for the garlic Parmesan sauce? I'm eager to try making this recipe but need guidance on the garlic and Parmesan quantities. Any help would be appreciated.

Stephanie Jackson

05/28/2025 08:51:09 PM

Great taste. Despite following the initial recipe instructions and cooking time, the potatoes were not fully cooked. I decided to include extra chicken stock for a more flavorful sauce, along with some sliced red onions. Additionally, I mixed in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 1/4 cup of hot water to thicken the sauce in the crockpot. Finished it off with some chopped scallions, giving it a garlic chicken pizza-like flavor. I will definitely prepare the chicken dish again (without the potatoes) and serve it over fettuccine, as per our taste preferences 😊.

Barbara King

02/07/2023 01:27:25 AM

I used 2 lbs of boneless thighs and 1.75 lbs of Yukon gold potatoes to make this delicious dish. I also added a medium onion, chopped small and wilted in the microwave until tender. I layered the potatoes and onions on the bottom, placed the thighs on top, and surprisingly didn't need to add any extra liquid. I then used a 15 oz. jar of Bertoli garlic Alfredo sauce, poured it over the meat, and cooked everything on high for 4 hours. Finally, I stirred in some cheese as recommended. The result was fantastic!

Deborah Hernandez

12/10/2022 04:32:28 AM

This crockpot chicken dish turned out to be one of my favorites. I decided to prepare my own garlic parmesan sauce to have better control over the salt content. I also included some baby carrots and omitted salt from the potato mixture since the parmesan cheese already provided enough seasoning. To ensure there was sufficient liquid for the potatoes and chicken, I added an extra cup of chicken stock. I used two large chicken breasts, cut into six pieces, and followed the cooking instructions as provided. Towards the end, I thickened the sauce by adding a mixture of 1/4 cup hot water and a heaping tablespoon of cornstarch before incorporating the cheeses. The resulting dish was mildly flavored but delicious, perfect for those who prefer milder foods. Both my husband and I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I will definitely be making it again. Thank you for sharing such a fantastic recipe!

Justin Mitchell

08/08/2023 12:16:20 PM

**Interesting twist!** When trying out this recipe, I decided to put my own spin on it. I modified it by first halving the potatoes and boiling them in flavorful seasoned water. Next, I lightly browned the chicken with onions and garlic in the Instant Pot. Then, I added a couple of my favorite seasonings along with the still somewhat firm potatoes. Knowing that some might find it too rich or cheesy, I opted to use a roasted chicken gravy mix packet diluted with a mix of milk and water, chicken stock, sour cream, cream cheese, Parmesan, and frozen corn. When the consistency felt slightly thin, I thickened it with a bit of cornstarch, which thickened further as it stood. I let it cook on the soup/stew setting for 20 minutes while preparing salads and dinner rolls (considering French or Ciabatta bread for next time). To serve, I topped it with a sprinkle of Mozzarella, bacon bits, and chives. The diced leftovers were repurposed into delicious chicken pot pies with added frozen veggies.

Samuel Sanchez

03/01/2024 04:53:13 AM

I always found it amusing to read reviews of people who tweaked a recipe and then shared their feedback ... and now, I'm joining that group. I decided to personalize the dish by adding a finely chopped onion, a pack of baby carrots (to turn it into a convenient one-pot meal), and a small can of sliced mushrooms (I'm a huge fan of mushrooms in almost every dish). Following the rest of the recipe as directed, the results were outstanding! I cooked it on high for 4 hours this time, but I think I'll go for 4 1/2 to 5 hours next time to soften the carrots and potatoes a bit more. The spiciness was just right for us - we enjoy a little kick, and the cheese helped balance the flavor. Even though I had sour cream on standby, we didn't end up needing it. We absolutely loved this dish and will be making it again many times in the future.

Justin Lee

10/12/2023 09:15:28 AM

Super easy and incredibly flavorful! I prepared it in a Dutch oven and cooked it in the oven at 325°F for 90 minutes.

Thomas Lewis

10/02/2024 02:25:56 AM

I included a block of cream cheese to the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture. The taste was absolutely divine! My family adored it and is already asking for more.

Cynthia Sanchez

09/15/2022 08:33:15 PM

It would be helpful to have information on cooking time, temperature, and serving size if one wishes to bake it in the oven as a casserole.

Lisa Gomez

07/26/2024 07:52:28 PM

Here is the rewritten review: I wanted to try the BWW sauce but hesitated at the $5 price tag for a bottle. Instead, I used a packet of McCormick parmesan garlic sauce mixed with a cup of whole milk. I cooked chicken thighs, baby gold potatoes, unsalted bone broth, cream cheese, baby carrots, and sliced baby bella mushrooms in my Instant Pot for six hours on high in slow cook mode, using a glass lid. I skipped the mozzarella as I forgot to buy it (bummer!) and added grated parmesan. I served this dish over buttered fusilli sprinkled with more parmesan and freeze-dried parsley. The flavor was fantastic, and everything was cooked to perfection. The sauce had just the right consistency. I will definitely make this again, but next time, I'll remember the mozzarella! 😊

Brenda Flores

07/01/2024 10:42:54 PM

I opted for boneless, skinless chicken thighs in this recipe. My daughter and her husband absolutely enjoyed it and asked for the recipe. The potatoes turned out incredibly flavorful, having soaked up all the delicious juices from the chicken. The gravy was a bit runny, so next time I'll skip adding water or chicken stock to the parmesan garlic sauce.

Nicole Harris

05/23/2023 07:27:19 PM

This meal was enjoyable and we may have it again, but it didn't become a household favorite.

Janet Jackson

08/03/2022 07:42:59 PM

We really liked this recipe and plan to prepare it again. It's simple to make and perfect for a family dinner. However, we did feel that it was a bit too watery and salty. Next time, I'll reduce the amount of salt and broth, or possibly add some cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

Rachel Taylor

06/09/2023 12:06:17 AM

It was just okay.

Sandra Mitchell

03/28/2023 06:18:30 PM

I followed the recipe exactly, except for the fresh parsley as I didn't have any on hand. I'm not a fan of spicy food, so I was surprised by how spicy this Parmesan garlic sauce turned out to be. I made it for my son, who enjoys spicy dishes, and myself, so we had plenty of leftovers. To my dismay, the dish only got spicier after a couple of days in the fridge. Personally, I won't be making it again, but if you enjoy spicy food, this recipe might be worth a try!

Justin Thomas

09/11/2022 02:22:35 AM

This recipe was fantastic! It was simple to prepare and incredibly tasty. I paired it with some fresh green beans and corn, and it was a hit. The only downside was that there was an ingredient in the Wild Wings Parmesan Sauce that didn't agree with our stomachs. I'd definitely make it again, but I'll have to find a substitute for the Wild Wings Sauce.

Christine Edwards

09/17/2024 12:49:43 AM

Due to my husband's recent tongue surgery, we've had to stick to a bland diet. I made a dish using alfredo sauce and customized the spices to suit his requirements during cooking. Each family member added extra seasoning to their own plates. I constantly seek recipes that can cater to our individual needs, and this one was easily adaptable for that purpose!

Jonathan Torres

12/12/2022 06:48:10 PM

Delicious and my husband enjoyed it as well. Just a tip, opt for authentic Buffalo Wings sauce as the generic one tends to be a bit thinner. Nonetheless, it was tasty, and I'll make sure to choose wisely next time.

Timothy Anderson

07/11/2024 12:19:42 AM

I omitted the chicken broth or water, and we enjoyed the thicker texture.

Laura Torres

05/19/2024 02:48:42 AM

Great tasting!