Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Ever have one of those days where you just want to come home to a meal that’s already done? A meal that fills the whole house with an incredible, savory aroma the moment you walk through the door? That’s the magic of this dish.
It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug. It’s incredibly simple, but the flavors are anything but basic. We’re talking tender, juicy chicken and soft, seasoned potatoes, all smothered in a rich, cheesy, garlicky sauce.
The best part is your crockpot does almost all the work. You get to be the hero of dinnertime with minimal effort. Let’s get into how you can make this cozy masterpiece happen in your own kitchen.
Ingredients Needed for the Recipe
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this easy dinner. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this flavorful feast.
• 1 lb chicken breast: The lean protein star of our show. Using breast keeps it light, but thighs would also be wonderfully juicy. • 5 medium-sized potatoes: Russets or Yukon Golds are perfect. They hold their shape and get beautifully tender. • 2 TBSP olive oil: This helps the seasonings stick to the potatoes and gives them a lovely texture. • Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika (for the potatoes): The foundational seasoning blend that makes the potatoes irresistible on their own. • 1/2 tsp each of salt and pepper: For directly seasoning the chicken, ensuring every bite is perfectly savory. • 1 tsp each of paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning: This combo adds a subtle smokiness, sweetness, and herby depth to the chicken. • 2 TBSP minced garlic: Jarred is fine for convenience, but fresh will give you an even more powerful garlic punch. Don’t be shy! • Garlic Parmesan Sauce (just enough to cover chicken): The shortcut superstar. It delivers a complex, creamy flavor without any fuss. • 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese: The glorious, melty, cheesy finish that brings everything together in gooey perfection.
How to make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes?
The process is straightforward, but a few little tricks will make all the difference. Follow these steps for a flawless result.
Prepping Your Crockpot and Potatoes
Start by giving the inside of your crockpot a quick spray with cooking spray. This simple act is your best defense against stuck-on food and makes cleanup a total breeze later.
Scrub those potatoes clean under cool running water. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skins on adds extra nutrients and a nice bit of texture. Now, chop them into small, bite-sized cubes.
Seasoning the Potato Base
Drizzle the olive oil over your potato cubes. Now, for the seasonings—this is where you can really make it your own. Generously sprinkle on the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
There’s no need for precise measuring spoons here; just shake and coat until they look and smell right to you. Toss in the minced garlic and give everything a really good stir, making sure every single potato piece is friends with the oil and spices.
Preparing and Adding the Chicken
Take your chicken breasts and cube them into pieces roughly the same size as your potatoes. This isn't just for looks; it ensures everything cooks evenly and you get a perfect bite of chicken and potato every time.
Lay the chicken pieces evenly over the bed of seasoned potatoes. Now, sprinkle the measured salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning directly over the chicken. This layers the flavor beautifully.
The Saucy Final Touch Before Cooking
Here comes the magic potion! Pour your chosen garlic parmesan sauce over the chicken. You just want enough to create a thin layer and cover the chicken—don't drown it.
The sauce is potent, and you can always add more at the end if you want. This way, you have full control over the final flavor and sauciness of your dish.
The Waiting Game and Finishing Touches
Pop the lid on and set your crockpot to low for about 6 hours. The long, slow cook is what makes the chicken incredibly tender and allows the potato cubes to soak up all those amazing flavors.
Once the chicken is cooked through (165°F internally) and the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork, give the whole mixture a gentle stir. Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Put the lid back on for just 10-15 more minutes. You’re not cooking anymore, you’re just letting the residual heat work its magic, melting that cheese into a glorious, stretchy blanket.
Best Time to Serve This Dish
This dish is a true all-rounder, but it absolutely shines on a busy weekday. Imagine prepping it in ten minutes in the morning and having dinner ready the second you walk in after a long day.
It’s also a fantastic option for casual weekend gatherings or potlucks. It’s a crowd-pleaser that travels well and stays warm in its own handy container. It’s the definition of comfort food, perfect for a chilly fall evening or a cozy night in.
Tips
For the creamiest, smoothest melted cheese, buy a block of mozzarella and shred it yourself. Pre-shredded bags contain anti-caking agents that can make the cheese a little grainy when melted.
All crockpots run a little differently. If your potatoes are still a bit firm after 6 hours, don’t worry! Just give it another 30-60 minutes on low until they’re perfect.
If you want to add a bit of texture and sweetness, toss in a diced onion with the potatoes. It caramelizes slowly and adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
No chicken breasts? Boneless, skinless thighs are a fantastic substitute. They’re actually harder to overcook and will yield an even more succulent result.
If you can’t find the specific wing sauce, don’t panic. Any brand of garlic parmesan sauce or even a homemade version using mayo, grated parmesan, garlic powder, and a splash of milk will work beautifully.
Feel free to play with the potato types! Red potatoes or sweet potatoes would also be delicious, though cooking times for sweet potatoes may be slightly less.
How to Store and Reheat
Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep happily in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating is best done gently. The microwave works in a pinch—just cover it and heat on medium power to avoid making the chicken rubbery. For the best texture, reheat it in a skillet on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
You can also freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. The potatoes may be a little softer after freezing, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
Pairing Ideas
This meal is hearty all on its own, but a simple side can really round it out. A crisp, green vegetable is the perfect contrast. Think steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
My family loves to add a cool dollop of ranch dressing or a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top for a bright, herby finish. A crusty piece of garlic bread is also never a wrong answer for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
It’s a complete, satisfying, and utterly delicious meal that everyone will ask for again and again. So go ahead, give it a try, and let your crockpot do the hard work for you.
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a hearty, flavorful one-pot meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts and cubed potatoes slow-cook in a rich blend of garlic, herbs, and Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce, then topped with melted mozzarella cheese for a comforting finish. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this easy crockpot dinner delivers big flavor with little effort—ideal for families on the go.
Ingredients
1lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
5 medium-sized potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet, peeled and cubed)
2tbsp olive oil
salt and black pepper (to taste, for seasoning potatoes and chicken)
garlic powder (for seasoning potatoes)
smoked paprika (for seasoning potatoes)
½tsp each salt and pepper (for chicken seasoning)
1tsp paprika
1tsp onion powder
1tsp Italian seasoning
2tbsp minced garlic (fresh or jarred)
Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce (or any store-bought/homemade garlic parmesan sauce, enough to coat chicken)
Prep the crockpotSpray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2
Prepare the potatoesWash, peel (optional), and cube the potatoes into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking.
Smaller cubes cook faster and absorb more flavor.
3
Season the potatoesPlace potatoes in the crockpot. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Add minced garlic and stir well to coat.
No exact measurements needed—season to taste.
4
Season the chickenCube the chicken breasts. In a bowl, season with ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp onion powder, and 1 tsp Italian seasoning.
Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
5
Add chicken and saucePlace seasoned chicken on top of the potatoes. Pour enough Garlic Parmesan Sauce over the chicken to fully cover it. Do not over-sauce, as it can make the dish too spicy or rich.
You can add more sauce later if desired.
6
CookCover and cook on LOW for 6 hours, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Avoid opening the lid frequently to maintain consistent heat.
7
Melt the cheeseOnce cooked, stir the contents gently to mix flavors. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Cover and let sit for 10–15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
Do not turn off the crockpot; residual heat will melt the cheese perfectly.
8
ServeScoop into bowls and serve warm. Optional: drizzle with ranch dressing or extra sauce, and pair with green beans, salad, or steamed veggies.
Great for meal prep—stores well in the fridge!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1 serving (chicken + potatoes)
Amount Per Serving
Calories480kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat20g31%
Saturated Fat7g35%
Cholesterol95mg32%
Sodium860mg36%
Potassium1350mg39%
Total Carbohydrate38g13%
Dietary Fiber4g16%
Sugars5g
Protein36g72%
Calcium 220 mg
Iron 3.0 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Sauce tip: Use Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce for authentic flavor, or substitute with another brand or homemade version (mix mayo, grated parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs).
Potato size matters: Cut all potato pieces uniformly to ensure even cooking. If using larger potatoes, consider parboiling for 5 minutes before adding to the crockpot.
Add vegetables: Toss in sliced onions, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
Freezing: Freeze cooled portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Cheese may separate slightly but will still be delicious.
Dairy-free option: Omit cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Skip or replace parmesan-containing sauce with a dairy-free creamy garlic sauce.