Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes An Incredible Ultimate Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a promise of comfort, convenience, and captivating flavor. Imagine stepping through your front door after a bustling day, greeted by the most inviting aroma that whispers of a delicious, home-cooked meal ready and waiting. That, my friends, is the magic of this particular slow-cooker masterpiece.
While the concept of slow-cooked meals spans centuries, from ancient pit cooking to modern Dutch ovens, the electric crockpot revolutionized home kitchens, offering busy individuals the luxury of deeply flavored, fork-tender dishes with minimal active effort. This recipe beautifully encapsulates that tradition, blending the robust, aromatic punch of garlic with the rich, umami notes of Parmesan cheese, all while transforming humble chicken and potatoes into an extraordinary culinary experience that feels both familiar and special.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Dish
People adore this combination for countless reasons. The chicken emerges incredibly juicy and tender, practically melting in your mouth, having slow-simmered in its savory broth. The potatoes, infused with all those wonderful flavors, become wonderfully soft and creamy, a perfect complement to the savory poultry. It’s the ultimate one-pot wonder, simplifying your dinner routine without ever compromising on taste or satisfaction. I truly believe that once you try this method, you’ll understand why Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes An Incredible Ultimate Recipe has become such a beloved staple in countless households, including my own.
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 2.5 – 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6-8 thighs, depending on size)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and subtle flavor)
- For the Potatoes:
- 2 pounds baby red or gold potatoes, scrubbed clean
- For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8-10 cloves garlic, minced (yes, we’re going big on the garlic!)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (mixed with 3 tablespoons cold water to form a slurry)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or ½ teaspoon dried oregano and ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- For Garnish:
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese
Preparing Our Delicious Ingredients for the Crockpot Magic
- Prepare the Chicken: First things first, let’s get our chicken ready. Take your boneless, skinless chicken thighs and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is more important than you might think, as it helps seasonings adhere better and prevents a watery texture in our final dish. Carefully trim any excess fat from the thighs. While some fat is good for flavor and moisture in slow cooking, too much can make the dish greasy. Once trimmed, season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with 1 teaspoon of sea salt, ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and if you’re using it, ½ teaspoon of paprika. The paprika adds a lovely warmth and a hint of color to the chicken, which is always a bonus. Set the seasoned chicken aside; it’s waiting for its moment to shine in our slow cooker. Using chicken thighs here is a deliberate choice for this “Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes An Incredible Ultimate Recipe” because they remain incredibly tender and juicy during the long cooking process, unlike chicken breasts which can sometimes dry out.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Next, let’s tackle our humble potatoes. Grab your 2 pounds of baby red or gold potatoes. There’s no need to peel them; the skins add a delightful rustic texture and extra nutrients. Give them a good scrub under cold running water to remove any dirt. Once clean, pat them dry. For uniform cooking, we need to cut them into roughly 1 to 1.5-inch pieces. This usually means halving the smaller baby potatoes and quartering the larger ones. The goal is to have pieces that will cook through evenly alongside the chicken and soak up all that incredible garlic Parmesan sauce. Laying the foundation with perfectly prepped ingredients is key to the success of our “Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes An Incredible Ultimate Recipe.”
- Prepare the Garlic: Now, for the star of the show – the garlic! This recipe calls for a generous 8-10 cloves, and trust me, you’ll be glad for every single one. Mince your garlic finely. You can use a garlic press, a sharp knife, or even a microplane for this. The finer the mince, the more evenly its potent flavor will distribute throughout our luscious sauce. Fresh garlic is non-negotiable for this recipe; please avoid pre-minced jarred garlic as it just doesn’t deliver the same vibrant, pungent flavor we’re after.
Crafting the Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a medium saucepan or a deep skillet, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. The combination of butter and olive oil provides a rich base and helps prevent the butter from burning. Add your generous amount of minced garlic to the pan. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be very careful not to let the garlic brown or burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the entire sauce. We’re looking for a golden, aromatic hue.
- Build the Flavor Base: Once the garlic is fragrant, pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Use low-sodium so we can control the saltiness later. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon – those are little pockets of flavor that we definitely want in our sauce! Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the garlic and broth to meld together.
- Introduce the Creaminess: Reduce the heat to low and slowly whisk in 1 cup of heavy cream. Keep whisking gently until it’s fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth. Then, gradually add 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It’s absolutely vital to use freshly grated Parmesan from a block, not the pre-grated kind in a can. The fresh Parmesan melts beautifully into a silky, cohesive sauce, while the pre-grated varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty or oily. Continue to whisk until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water to create a smooth slurry. Whisk this mixture thoroughly until there are no lumps. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce in the saucepan, whisking continuously. The sauce will begin to thicken almost immediately. Let it simmer gently for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the cornstarch to cook out and the sauce to reach a lovely, luscious consistency that will beautifully coat our chicken and potatoes. This step ensures that our “Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes An Incredible Ultimate Recipe” will have a wonderfully rich and clingy sauce.
- Season and Perfect: Now it’s time to season our sauce to perfection. Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning (or your ½ teaspoon dried oregano and ½ teaspoon dried thyme), ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and if you’re adding it for a gentle warmth, ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Taste the sauce, and then adjust with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Remember, the Parmesan cheese already contributes some saltiness, so add it incrementally until it tastes just right. This sauce is the glorious heart of our “Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes An Incredible Ultimate Recipe,” infusing every single bite with phenomenal flavor.
Assembling Your Crockpot for an Effortless Feast
- Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly spray the inside of your 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker with cooking spray. This small step helps prevent anything from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Layer the Potatoes: Place all of your prepared potato pieces evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker. We put the potatoes on the bottom because they are denser and take slightly longer to cook through than the chicken, and being submerged in the sauce helps them tenderize beautifully.
- Add the Chicken: Arrange your seasoned chicken thighs directly on top of the layer of potatoes. Try to spread them out as much as possible, ideally in a single layer if your slow cooker allows, to ensure even cooking and maximum sauce contact.
- Pour the Sauce: Carefully pour all of that incredible garlic Parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken and potatoes. Make sure everything is well coated and submerged in the creamy goodness. Give the slow cooker a gentle shake or use a spoon to ensure the sauce penetrates all the layers. This careful layering and saucing ensures that every component of our “Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes An Incredible Ultimate Recipe” will be infused with flavor.
The Art of Slow Cooking: Letting Your Crockpot Do the Work
- Set and Forget (Mostly!): Place the lid securely on your slow cooker. Set your slow cooker to the LOW setting and cook for 5-6 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 3-4 hours. The “Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes An Incredible Ultimate Recipe” thrives on low and slow cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the chicken to become incredibly tender.
- Low Setting (5-6 hours): This is my preferred method for maximum tenderness and flavor development. The extended cooking time on low heat allows the chicken to slowly break down and become fork-tender, and the potatoes absorb more of the rich sauce.
- High Setting (3-4 hours): If you’re in a bit more of a hurry, the high setting will get the job done. Just be mindful that the chicken might not be quite as melt-in-your-mouth tender as with the low setting, but it will still be delicious.
A crucial tip for slow cooking: Resist the urge to lift the lid! Every time you peek, a significant amount of heat escapes, adding at least 20-30 minutes to your cooking time. Trust the process and let your slow cooker work its magic.
- Check for Doneness: After the recommended cooking time, carefully remove the lid. The chicken should be incredibly tender and easily shredded with a fork. The potatoes should also be fork-tender, soft, and fully cooked through. If either element feels undercooked, replace the lid and continue cooking for another 30 minutes to an hour, checking periodically. The sauce should be thick and clinging to the chicken and potatoes. If it seems too thin for your liking, you can always remove the chicken and potatoes, then bring the sauce to a simmer in a saucepan on the stove and reduce it further, or add a little more cornstarch slurry (mixed with cold water) to thicken it. However, with the initial slurry, it should be just right.
The Grand Finale: Finishing Touches and Serving Suggestions
- Gentle Stir and Garnish: Once everything is perfectly cooked, give the contents of your slow cooker a gentle stir. Be careful not to mash the potatoes too much, but ensure all the chicken and potatoes are wonderfully coated in that glorious garlic Parmesan sauce.
Right before serving, generously sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped parsley over the entire dish. The fresh parsley not only adds a beautiful pop of vibrant green color but also provides a fresh, herbaceous counterpoint to the rich, creamy sauce. You can also add another sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of cheesy goodness. - Taste and Adjust: Take a small taste of the finished “Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes An Incredible Ultimate Recipe.” This is your last chance to adjust any seasoning. Does it need a tiny pinch more salt or pepper? Perhaps a dash more red pepper flakes if you like a little heat? Adjust according to your preference.
- Serve It Up: Your incredible “Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes An Incredible Ultimate Recipe” is now ready to be enjoyed! This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides.
- Serve it directly from the crockpot into bowls, ensuring everyone gets a good helping of chicken, potatoes, and plenty of that irresistible sauce.
- It’s fantastic served alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
- Crusty bread or garlic bread is an absolute must for soaking up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
- For those who want to extend the meal, it’s also delicious spooned over a bed of fluffy white rice or your favorite pasta.
The tender chicken, soft, flavorful potatoes, and the velvety, garlicky, cheesy sauce create a truly comforting and satisfying meal that will become a new family favorite.
- Storage and Leftovers: Any leftovers of your “Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes An Incredible Ultimate Recipe” can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. This dish reheats remarkably well, making it perfect for meal prep.
Welcome to the grand finale of our culinary adventure! You’ve journeyed through the simple yet profound steps of creating what I truly believe is one of the most heartwarming and utterly delicious meals you can whip up with minimal fuss.
Conclusion:
This isn’t just another crockpot meal; it’s a culinary revelation that effortlessly transforms basic ingredients into something truly extraordinary. The sheer beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes An Incredible Ultimate Recipe lies in its magnificent simplicity married with a flavor profile that is both robust and comforting. Imagine sinking your teeth into incredibly tender chicken, so succulent it practically falls apart, nestled among perfectly cooked, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes. Every component is bathed in a rich, savory, garlicky, and delightfully cheesy sauce that will have you savoring each and every bite. The intoxicating aroma alone, wafting through your home as it slowly cooks, will transport you to a happy place long before you even take the first bite.
This is the kind of meal that makes even the busiest weeknights feel special and handles effortless entertaining with grace. Say goodbye to slaving over a hot stove after a long day; your trusty slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to reclaim your precious evening hours. The magic of the slow cooker truly allows all those incredible flavors – the pungent kick of fresh garlic, the sharp, salty notes of Parmesan, the succulent juices from the chicken, and the earthy comfort of the potatoes – to meld together over hours. This prolonged cooking process creates a depth of flavor that quick-cooking methods simply cannot achieve. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it masterpiece, consistently delivering on taste, texture, and unparalleled convenience, making it an absolute staple in my home. I’m confident it will quickly become a cherished favorite in yours too, proving itself to be an indispensable part of your regular meal rotation. It’s truly a testament to how simple ingredients, given time and a little love, can create something profoundly delicious and deeply satisfying.
Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations:
While this dish is magnificent and perfectly complete on its own, it also welcomes a variety of companions and lends itself beautifully to creative adaptations. I personally love serving it with a crisp, vibrant green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the main dish. Steamed asparagus or tender broccoli florets make for a healthy, colorful, and delicious side that complements the flavors beautifully. And for those of us who simply cannot get enough of that incredible, flavorful sauce, a crusty loaf of artisanal bread is an absolute must for dipping – seriously, do not skip this step! You could also serve this over a bed of fluffy white rice or protein-rich quinoa to soak up every last drop of that glorious liquid, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
But the fun doesn’t stop there! This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, inviting you to put your own spin on it. Want to boost your veggie intake even further? Toss in some sweet baby carrots, colorful sliced bell peppers, or even a handful of earthy mushrooms during the last hour or two of cooking. Feeling extra cheesy? A generous sprinkle of mozzarella or a sharp cheddar blend towards the very end will elevate the cheesiness factor even more, creating a gooey, delightful topping. For a slightly different herb profile, try adding a fragrant sprig of fresh rosemary or a teaspoon of dried thyme along with the garlic for an aromatic twist. A pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle warmth and a delightful kick if you enjoy a little spice. For an even creamier, more decadent sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You could even experiment with different cuts of chicken – boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully for an even juicier and more flavorful result. Don’t be afraid to make this recipe truly your own, adapting it to your family’s unique preferences and whatever wonderful ingredients you happen to have on hand in your pantry and fridge. The possibilities are truly endless!
Your Turn to Experience the Magic!
I truly hope you feel inspired and excited to give this Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes An Incredible Ultimate Recipe a try in your own kitchen. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that promises to deliver unparalleled comfort, immense satisfaction, and incredible flavor with minimal effort on your part. Imagine coming home after a long day to the intoxicating aroma of this cooking, knowing that a delicious, homemade dinner is patiently waiting for you. There’s an immense joy to be found in sharing good food, and I wholeheartedly encourage you to make this recipe your own, embracing its versatility. When you do, please come back and tell me all about your experience! Did you discover a secret ingredient that took it to the next level? What did your family and friends think of this amazing dish? Share your photos, your triumphs, and your delightful variations in the comments section below. Your feedback, your personal twists, and your culinary creativity truly inspire me and our wonderful community of home cooks. Let’s make delicious memories together, one incredible crockpot meal at a time!
People Also Ask:
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While it might seem convenient, it’s generally recommended to use thawed chicken in a slow cooker for both food safety and to achieve the best texture. Frozen chicken can take longer to reach a safe temperature, sometimes staying in the “danger zone” (40-140°F or 4-60°C) for too long, which increases the risk of bacterial growth. If you absolutely must use frozen chicken, add an extra 1-2 hours to the cooking time and always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer before serving.
Do I need to brown the chicken before adding it to the crockpot?
Browning the chicken beforehand is not strictly necessary for safety or for the chicken to cook through. However, if you have the time, browning bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker can add an extra layer of rich, caramelized flavor and create a slightly crispier skin. For boneless, skinless chicken, I often skip this step for maximum convenience, and the results are still wonderfully flavorful and tender.
What type of potatoes work best for this dish?
For this recipe, smaller, waxier potatoes like red potatoes, Yukon Gold, or new potatoes work beautifully. They tend to hold their shape well during the long cooking process and absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce magnificently. If you’re using larger, starchier russet potatoes, be sure to cut them into smaller, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and prevent them from getting too mushy.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese. You can substitute it with a dairy-free Parmesan alternative for a cheesy flavor, or add a few tablespoons of nutritional yeast which offers a similar savory, umami note. Additionally, always ensure your chicken broth or stock is dairy-free. The dish will still be incredibly flavorful and satisfying with all the wonderful garlic and herbs!
How long do leftovers last, and can I freeze them?
Leftovers of this incredible dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Yes, this recipe also freezes quite well! Store cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
My sauce is too thin/thick – how can I fix it?
If your sauce turns out too thin for your liking, you can easily thicken it. Carefully remove the cooked chicken and potatoes from the crockpot. In a small bowl, whisk together a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this slurry into the sauce remaining in the crockpot. Turn the slow cooker to high heat (if it has this setting, otherwise, you might transfer the sauce to a saucepan on the stovetop) and whisk frequently for about 15-30 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thick, simply add a splash more chicken broth, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can certainly adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot, significantly reducing the cooking time! You’ll typically cook it on high pressure for about 10-12 minutes for chicken and potatoes, followed by a natural release, depending on the size of your chicken pieces and how small you’ve cut your potatoes. You might also want to utilize the ‘Sauté’ function to brown the chicken and sauté the garlic and a bit of onion directly in the Instant Pot before adding other ingredients to build even more depth of flavor.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
While fresh garlic always provides the most vibrant and pungent flavor, you can certainly substitute it with garlic powder if fresh isn’t available. As a general rule of thumb, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder is roughly equivalent to one clove of fresh garlic. Adjust the amount to your taste preference, but start with less and add more if needed, as garlic powder can be quite potent.
Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Slow Cooker Chicken & Potatoes
Garlic Parmesan Slow Cooker Chicken & Potatoes is more than just a dish; it’s a promise of comfort, convenience, and captivating flavor. This slow-cooker masterpiece brings deeply flavored, fork-tender chicken and wonderfully soft, creamy potatoes together in a rich, garlicky, cheesy sauce, creating an extraordinary culinary experience with minimal effort. It’s the ultimate one-pot wonder for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
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2.5-3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
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1 tsp sea salt
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½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
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½ tsp paprika (optional)
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2 lbs baby red or gold potatoes, scrubbed, cut into 1-1.5 inch pieces
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¼ cup unsalted butter
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2 tbsp olive oil
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8-10 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
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2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp cold water (slurry)
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1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
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½ tsp onion powder
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¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Step 1
Pat chicken thighs dry, trim excess fat, and season generously with 1 tsp sea salt, ½ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp paprika. Scrub potatoes clean, pat dry, and cut into 1-1.5 inch pieces. Mince 8-10 cloves of fresh garlic finely. -
Step 2
In a medium saucepan, melt ¼ cup unsalted butter with 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant; do not burn. Pour in 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits. Reduce heat to low. Whisk in 1 cup heavy cream, then gradually add 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and melted. Stir in the cornstarch slurry, whisking until sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Season with 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, ½ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional), and salt and pepper to taste. -
Step 3
Lightly spray a 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker with cooking spray. Layer the prepared potato pieces evenly on the bottom. Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs directly on top of the potatoes. Pour the garlic Parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken and potatoes, ensuring everything is well coated. -
Step 4
Secure the lid on the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain heat and cooking time. Chicken should be fork-tender, and potatoes soft and fully cooked. -
Step 5
Once cooked, gently stir the contents. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve directly from the crockpot, optionally with a green salad, crusty bread, rice, or pasta. -
Step 6
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
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