Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Minimal prep work — the slow cooker does the hard part for you.
Juicy, flavorful chicken every time without overcooking.
Baby potatoes soak up all the garlicky, buttery goodness.
Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining.
Made with simple pantry staples — no fancy ingredients needed.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Arrange the halved baby potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
In a small bowl, mix garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper to form a paste.
Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken thighs.
Place the seasoned chicken on top of the potatoes.
Dot the top with cubes of butter.
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and potatoes are tender.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken thighs for bone-in chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Add carrots or green beans to the slow cooker for extra veggies.
Use rosemary instead of thyme for a more aromatic flavor.
Try shredded Parmesan for a stronger cheesy taste.
Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, or microwave in short bursts until heated through.
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

You can bake it in a covered dish at 375°F for about 50–60 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prep everything in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Start cooking the next day.

What type of potatoes work best?

Baby gold or baby red potatoes hold their shape well and become creamy when cooked.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan gives better flavor and melts more smoothly, but pre-grated works in a pinch.

How do I keep the chicken skin crispy?

For crispy skin, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes after slow cooking.

Can I add more garlic?

Absolutely — adjust to your taste preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as your Parmesan and spices are gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but make sure your slow cooker is large enough to fit everything.

What should I serve with it?

It pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is proof that simple ingredients can deliver big, comforting flavors. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, you get a hearty, satisfying dinner the whole family will love — perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or a cozy weekend meal.