Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to increase the cooking time. Cook on Low for 7-8 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender.

What kind of potatoes work best?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe. They hold their shape well and absorb the flavors beautifully.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just add everything to the slow cooker and let it cook as directed.

Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes: Best Meal Prep Lunch or Dinner

Name: Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: — The Base —; 1.5 lbs (700g) baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or Red), washed and halved; 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (preferred) or breasts 1 tablespoon olive oil — The Garlic Herb Sauce — ½ cup chicken broth 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 5 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried basil ½ teaspoon dried thyme ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) — The Finish — ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier sauce) ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese 2 cups fresh baby spinach Fresh parsley, chopped

Ingredients

— The Base —

1.5 lbs (700g) baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or Red), washed and halved

1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (preferred) or breasts

1 tablespoon olive oil

— The Garlic Herb Sauce —

½ cup chicken broth

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

5 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon dried thyme

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

— The Finish —

½ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier sauce)

¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups fresh baby spinach

Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. **Layer Potatoes:** Lightly grease the slow cooker insert. Place the halved baby potatoes in an even layer at the bottom.

2. **Add Chicken:** Place the chicken thighs on top of the potatoes.

3. **Make the Sauce:** In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, melted butter, minced garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

4. **Pour:** Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and potatoes. (Tip: Try to ensure the chicken is nicely coated with the herbs).

5. **Slow Cook:** Cover and cook on **LOW for 6–7 hours** or **HIGH for 3–4 hours**. The chicken should be cooked through (165°F) and the potatoes fork-tender.

6. **Add Cream & Spinach:** About 20 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream (if using) and the fresh spinach. Cover and cook on HIGH for 10–15 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is hot.

7. **Finish:** Turn off the slow cooker. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce slightly thickens.

8. **Serve:** Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Boneless skinless thighs are highly recommended for the slow cooker as they stay juicy and tender over long cooking times. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them, or they can become dry and stringy.

Crispy Skin (Optional): If you miss the crispy skin of roasted chicken, you can transfer the cooked chicken and potatoes to a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes before adding the spinach/cheese step.

Sauce Thickness: Slow cookers trap moisture, so the sauce will be thin. The parmesan cheese helps thicken it at the end. If you want a gravy-like consistency, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Dairy-Free: You can omit the heavy cream and parmesan for a ‘Garlic Butter’ style dish that is dairy-free (using oil instead of butter) or use plant-based alternatives.

Author: Anna Lovae
Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 240
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
Diet: Gluten Free