Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan

Step into a realm of culinary bliss with our Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe. This savory dish promises to tantalize your taste buds with its tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe combines convenience with gourmet flavor. As the chicken simmers in the slow cooker, it absorbs the savory garlic-infused sauce, resulting in a meal that’s bursting with flavor. So, prepare to elevate your dining experience with this delectable Garlic Parmesan Chicken straight from your slow cooker.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs (with bones and skin)
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon each of garlic salt and paprika
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 pound baby potatoes (can halve)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with garlic salt, paprika, salt, and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated with the spices.
2. Brown Chicken: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sear the chicken thighs on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Layer Ingredients: Place the browned chicken thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the baby potatoes around the chicken.
4. Add Garlic: Sprinkle the minced garlic over the chicken and potatoes, distributing it evenly.
5. Cheese it Up: Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and potatoes, ensuring they are well coated.
6. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, garnish the Garlic Parmesan Chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the irresistible flavors!

Cook Notes and Variations

• Boneless Chicken: If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, you can certainly use them in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chicken may cook faster than bone-in chicken.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables to the slow cooker along with the chicken and potatoes. Bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli are all delicious options that pair well with the garlic Parmesan flavor.
• Creamy Addition: For an extra indulgent twist, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. This will create a creamy sauce that enhances the richness of the dish.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

• Keto-Friendly Option: To make this recipe keto-friendly, simply omit the baby potatoes or replace them with low-carb alternatives such as cauliflower florets or radishes. Ensure that the Parmesan cheese is grated from a block rather than pre-grated to avoid added starches.
• Low-Carb Variation: Reduce the amount of potatoes used in the recipe to lower the carb content. You can also substitute the baby potatoes with turnips or rutabaga for a lower-carb alternative that still provides a similar texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs? Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs in this recipe. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts may cook faster than chicken thighs, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from drying out.
2. Do I need to brown the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker? While browning the chicken adds flavor and helps to seal in juices, it is not strictly necessary. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and add the seasoned chicken directly to the slow cooker.
3. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese? While pre-grated Parmesan cheese is convenient, it may contain added ingredients such as cellulose to prevent clumping. For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese from a block.
4. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) as measured with a meat thermometer. The meat should be white and no longer pink in the center.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and assemble them in the slow cooker ahead of time. Simply cover the slow cooker insert with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Cook as directed when ready to enjoy.

In conclusion, our Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and flavor. With its minimal ingredients and effortless preparation, this dish proves that gourmet dining can be achieved right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress with its irresistible taste and aromatic allure. So, fire up your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the comforting goodness of Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Your taste buds will thank you!