There's nothing quite like the aroma of Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes filling your home on a chilly evening. This recipe is a cozy, comforting classic that combines tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and a medley of Italian seasonings for a dish that's as satisfying as it is simple to prepare.
I first discovered this recipe on a particularly busy day when I needed something hearty and effortless. Since then, it has become a family favorite, making regular appearances on our dinner table. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special.
Why You'll Love This Italian Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes
Get ready to fall in love with a recipe that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. This dish has something for everyone – from its rich, savory taste to its ease of preparation.
First off, this is a true set-it-and-forget-it meal. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, set the timer, and let it do all the work. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The flavor is absolutely unbeatable. With Italian herbs, garlic, and a touch of olive oil, every bite is bursting with a perfect blend of savory and aromatic notes. Even picky eaters will find it irresistible!
It's a one-pot wonder. No need for extra side dishes (though a slice of crusty bread never hurts). The chicken and potatoes cook together, soaking up all those delicious juices for a complete meal in one dish.
Lastly, this recipe is incredibly budget-friendly. Using simple, affordable ingredients, you can feed a family of four without breaking the bank.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of this Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes this dish shine.
Chicken thighs or breasts are the star of the show. While you can use either, thighs are my go-to for their juiciness and richer flavor. If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts work just as well – just be careful not to overcook them.
Baby potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they hold their shape during slow cooking. You can use red or Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and buttery taste. If using larger potatoes, cut them into even chunks for consistent cooking.
Italian seasoning brings the dish together with a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme. If you have fresh herbs, they’re a great way to elevate the flavor even more.
Garlic cloves add a subtle kick of warmth and depth to the dish. Mince them finely or use pre-minced garlic for convenience.
Chicken broth keeps everything moist and infuses the potatoes and chicken with extra flavor. Low-sodium broth is a great choice to control the saltiness of the final dish.
A good extra-virgin olive oil adds a rich, silky texture to the dish while helping the seasoning stick to the ingredients.
For equipment, all you need is a reliable slow cooker and a sharp knife for prepping the ingredients.
How To Make This Italian Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes
Making this dish is as simple as layering the ingredients and letting your slow cooker work its magic. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure success.
Start by prepping your ingredients. Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. If you're using larger potatoes, cut them into 2-inch pieces. Season the chicken on both sides with a generous sprinkle of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In the slow cooker, drizzle a bit of olive oil on the bottom to prevent sticking. Arrange the potatoes in an even layer. Toss them with a little olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of Italian seasoning to coat them evenly.
Place the seasoned chicken on top of the potatoes. This arrangement allows the juices from the chicken to drip down, flavoring the potatoes as they cook. Pour the chicken broth evenly over the top to keep everything moist and flavorful.
Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6-7 hours, or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the potatoes are cooked through. For a golden finish, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and broil it for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Once done, give everything a gentle toss to mix the flavors. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (though that’s rare with this dish), storing them is a breeze.
Place the chicken and potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain the dish’s moistness, store it with a bit of the cooking liquid.
For longer storage, freeze the dish in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat leftovers in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent drying out. Alternatively, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to make it your own.
For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. It’ll give the dish a subtle heat without overpowering the flavors.
Swap the potatoes for other vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes. These will add a touch of sweetness and complement the Italian herbs beautifully.
If you’re craving a creamier dish, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end. This creates a luxurious sauce that coats the chicken and potatoes perfectly.
Want to add more greens? Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking. They’ll wilt down beautifully without becoming mushy.
For a dairy-free version, ensure your chicken broth is dairy-free and skip any optional cheese garnishes.
With so many ways to customize, this Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!
PrintItalian Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes Recipe
Make this Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes recipe for a simple, delicious, and hearty meal. Featuring tender chicken, seasoned potatoes, and Italian spices, this one-pot dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 1 cup baby carrots (optional)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add the halved potatoes and baby carrots (if using) around the chicken.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, basil, onion powder, paprika, red pepper flakes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken and potatoes.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- You can substitute baby potatoes with regular potatoes cut into chunks.
- Add other vegetables like green beans or zucchini for more variety.
- Adjust seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 460mg
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