Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan

This slow cooker Parmesan garlic chicken and potatoes delivers incredible comfort food with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken chunks and creamy, cheesy potatoes creates a satisfying one-pot meal that practically cooks itself while you handle other things.

I started making this recipe during busy weeknights when I needed something that could cook while I helped kids with homework. The first time I served it, my pickiest eater asked for seconds and it immediately became part of our regular rotation.

Ingredients

• Potatoes: Provide the hearty base and absorb all the delicious flavors. Choose Yukon golds for their buttery flavor and texture that holds up well in slow cooking
• Olive oil: Helps coat the potatoes for even cooking and prevents sticking
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without being too harsh. The coarse texture distributes well throughout the dish
• Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity that balances the creamy elements
• Paprika: Brings a gentle smokiness and beautiful color to the finished dish
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Stay juicy and tender when cut into chunks. They absorb the garlic Parmesan flavors beautifully
• Creamy Parmesan garlic sauce: Is the flavor powerhouse. Buffalo Wild Wings brand recommended here adds restaurant quality taste with zero effort
• Water or chicken stock: Thins the sauce just enough to coat everything evenly during cooking
• Mozzarella cheese: Creates that irresistible stretchy pull and mild flavor that complements without overwhelming
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp punch of umami that elevates the entire dish to another level
• Fresh parsley: Brightens up the rich flavors and adds a pop of color just before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Potato Base:

Toss potatoes with olive oil and seasonings directly in the slow cooker until every piece is well coated. This creates a flavorful foundation for the entire dish. Take your time here to ensure even distribution of the spices.

Layer the Chicken:

Add the diced chicken pieces on top of the potato layer and season with remaining salt and pepper. Keeping the chicken on top helps it cook evenly and prevents it from becoming mushy at the bottom of the cooker.

Create the Sauce Mixture:

Whisk together the Parmesan garlic sauce with water or stock until completely smooth. This step is crucial for creating the perfect consistency that will coat everything as it cooks. The liquid helps the sauce penetrate all ingredients.

Pour and Set:

Pour the sauce mixture evenly over all ingredients in the slow cooker. Set your cooker to High for 4 hours or Low for 6 hours depending on your schedule. No need to stir at this point let the layers cook as they are.

Add the Cheese Finish:

During the final 20 minutes of cooking time add both cheeses on top. Replace the lid quickly to allow the cheese to melt perfectly into a gooey delicious layer that brings everything together.

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the finished dish just before serving for a burst of color and fresh flavor that cuts through the richness.

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The first time I made this dish I was skeptical about using a prepared sauce but it turned out to be the secret weapon. The Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic sauce has this incredible depth that would take hours to develop from scratch. My husband now requests this dish at least twice a month and always asks for the leftovers in his lunch.

Storage and Reheating

This dish will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually continue to develop and many people find it tastes even better on day two. To reheat individual portions microwave for 2 minutes stirring halfway through. For larger portions reheat covered in a 325°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. Add a splash of milk or stock if it seems dry during reheating.

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Perfect Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile and adapts well to what you have on hand. Chicken thighs make an excellent substitute for chicken breasts and actually stay even more tender during the long cooking process. Red potatoes or russets work well in place of Yukon golds just adjust cooking time slightly as needed. If you cannot find the Buffalo Wild Wings sauce any creamy garlic Parmesan dressing will work or make your own with 3/4 cup heavy cream 1/4 cup grated Parmesan and 2 tablespoons minced garlic.

Serving Suggestions

This complete meal stands perfectly on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast to the rich main dish. For a more substantial spread add a side of crusty garlic bread perfect for soaking up every bit of the delicious sauce. A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc makes an excellent beverage pairing as the acidity helps cut through the richness of the cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

→ What type of potatoes should I use?

Yukon gold or red potatoes work best, as they hold their shape well during slow cooking.

→ Can the garlic Parmesan sauce be homemade?

Yes, you can make your own garlic Parmesan sauce using cream, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and seasonings.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

Use low-fat cheese and a light garlic Parmesan sauce, and replace some potatoes with vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker in advance, refrigerate, and start cooking when ready.

→ What garnishes pair well with this dish?

Fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red chili flakes adds color and a pop of flavor.