Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes – This is the ultimate comfort meal, combining tender, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked potatoes, all infused with rich, savory flavors. Just toss everything into your slow cooker, let it work its magic, and come home to a hearty, wholesome dinner that’s ready to enjoy.
Why Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes?
What makes Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes a standout dish is its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, you create a hearty meal that pleases even the pickiest of eaters. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, making it a perfect base for your own culinary creativity.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part? You likely have most of these items in your kitchen already!
- Chicken: Bone-in or boneless chicken thighs, drumsticks, or chicken breasts. Thighs are my go-to for extra flavor and tenderness.
- Potatoes: Yukon Golds or red potatoes hold their shape well. If you prefer a creamy texture, Russets work too.
- Carrots: Optional, but they add a delightful sweetness and color.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the flavor profile.
- Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and helps cook everything evenly.
- Herbs: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or dried Italian seasoning for that irresistible aroma.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings to taste.
- Butter or Olive Oil: To add a touch of richness to the dish.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
- Searing for Extra Flavor: If you have a few extra minutes, sear the chicken in a hot skillet before adding it to the Crockpot. This caramelizes the exterior and adds depth to the dish.
- Use a Slow Cooker Liner: For easy cleanup, line your Crockpot before adding the ingredients.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid piling everything too high. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed for consistent cooking.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Lemon and Herbs: Add slices of lemon for a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream of mushroom soup at the end for a creamy, comforting sauce.
- Vegetable Medley: Feel free to add more vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
- With a Side Salad: A crisp, green salad balances the richness of the dish.
- Over Rice or Quinoa: If you’re craving extra carbs, serve the dish over rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes.
- With Crusty Bread: Use it to soak up all the delicious juices from the Crockpot!
How to Store and Reheat
- In the Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- In the Freezer: You can freeze Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating Tips: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep the dish moist.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well, but they may cook faster. Check for doneness around the 5-hour mark on low.
2. Can I prep this dish the night before?
Absolutely. Assemble everything in the Crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, place the insert into the Crockpot and cook as directed.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free alternative.
4. What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well. Russets are also fine but may break down more during the slow cooking process.
5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your chicken broth and seasonings to ensure they don’t contain gluten.
Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes - This is the ultimate comfort meal, combining tender, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked potatoes, all infused with rich, savory flavors. Just toss everything into your slow cooker, let it work its magic, and come home to a hearty, wholesome dinner that's ready to enjoy.
Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs: 2 lbs, bone-in, skin-on (about 6-8 pieces)
- Baby Potatoes: 1 ½ lbs, halved
- Carrots: 3 medium, chopped into 1-inch chunks
- Onion: ¼ cup, diced
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Italian Seasoning: 1 ½ teaspoons
- Rosemary: 2 fresh sprigs (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted
- Chicken Stock: 1 cup
- Salt & Pepper: To taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon flour or cornstarch to thicken sauce
Instructions
- Sear for Flavor: Heat up some olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them skin-side down for 3-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. This step locks in flavor!
- Prep Your Veggies: Toss baby potatoes, chopped carrots, diced onion, melted butter, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper in a bowl.
- Layer It Up in the Crockpot: Add the seasoned veggies to the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Lay the rosemary sprigs on top, then place your beautifully seared chicken thighs over the veggies. Pour in the chicken stock.
- Set It and Forget It: Cover with the lid and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 7-8 hours, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temp) and the veggies are perfectly tender.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 303Total Fat 17gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 123mgSodium 245mgCarbohydrates 3gFiber 0gSugar 1gProtein 32g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is a wholesome, no-fuss meal perfect for busy families or meal-prepping enthusiasts. Its warm, hearty flavors will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get adventurous with your own twist, you can’t go wrong with this one-pot wonder!
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