Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe: A Delicious and Effortless Meal

Are you in search of a hassle-free yet mouthwatering meal that will impress your family or guests? Look no further than this Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful recipe and learn how to make it your own!

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved if large
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

1. Season Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with garlic salt, paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure each thigh is evenly coated with the seasoning.
2. Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs, skin-side down, until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step helps to lock in the flavor and juices of the chicken.

2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:

1. Layer Potatoes: Arrange the halved baby potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
2. Add Chicken: Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the potatoes in the slow cooker.

3. Cook the Chicken:

1. Set Slow Cooker: 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 tender and cooked through.
2. Check for Doneness: To ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165°F (75°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken thigh.

4. Finish and Serve:

1. Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and potatoes during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish.
2. Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Vegetable Variation: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the slow cooker for added nutrition and flavor. Sliced carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli florets are excellent options that pair well with the garlic parmesan chicken.
• Creamy Option: For a creamy twist, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. This creates a luscious sauce that coats the chicken and potatoes beautifully.
• Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor profile of the dish by adding fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the seasoning mixture. These aromatic herbs add depth and complexity to the dish.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

• Cheese Lover’s Delight: Increase the amount of Parmesan cheese in the recipe or sprinkle additional shredded cheese over the chicken and potatoes for a cheesy keto-friendly option. Cheese is low in carbs and high in fat, making it ideal for a ketogenic diet.
• Replace Potatoes: Substitute the baby potatoes with low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower florets or zucchini slices to reduce the carb content of the dish while still providing texture and substance.

Low-Carb Version:

• Eliminate Potatoes: Omit the potatoes altogether and focus solely on the chicken for a low-carb version of this recipe. You can increase the serving size of the chicken thighs or pair them with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Use Cauliflower: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative. Cauliflower absorbs the flavors of the dish and provides a satisfying bite without the excess carbs.

In conclusion, this Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is a winner in terms of flavor, convenience, and versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish delivers on all fronts. With its tender and juicy chicken, flavorful potatoes, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, with keto and low-carb variations available, it can easily fit into a variety of dietary lifestyles. So, fire up your slow cooker and give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!

Additional Tips and Serving Suggestions:

• Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Cook a batch of Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken ahead of time and portion it into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Pairing Options: Serve the garlic parmesan chicken alongside a fresh garden salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of cauliflower rice for a complete and balanced meal.
• Freezing Instructions: If you have leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Enjoy!