There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes filling your home after a busy day. Tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and a medley of Italian-inspired flavors come together effortlessly in this dish. It's a simple, wholesome meal that's sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.
I discovered this recipe during a hectic week when I needed something quick to assemble and satisfying for my family. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, it quickly became a favorite. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!
Why You'll Love This Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Get ready to fall in love with this easy, flavorful recipe. Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is not only delicious but also perfect for busy cooks looking for a low-effort meal.
First, it’s a one-pot wonder. The crockpot does all the heavy lifting, leaving you free to tackle other tasks or simply relax. Everything cooks together, so you’re left with tender chicken, perfectly cooked potatoes, and a sauce infused with Italian herbs.
This recipe is budget-friendly, using simple ingredients like chicken thighs, potatoes, and pantry staples. You don’t need any fancy equipment or expensive items to create something truly mouthwatering.
It’s also versatile. You can switch up the vegetables, adjust the seasonings, or even use different cuts of chicken. Whether you're feeding picky eaters or experimenting with what’s in your fridge, this dish adapts beautifully.
Lastly, it’s perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch on Sunday, and you’ll have delicious leftovers for busy weeknights. The flavors deepen as they sit, making it just as tasty, if not better, the next day.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is chosen to create a balance of flavors and textures that’s both hearty and comforting.
Chicken thighs are the star of the show. Their natural juiciness and flavor make them ideal for slow cooking. You can substitute with chicken breasts if you prefer, but thighs hold up better and stay tender during the long cooking process.
Yukon Gold potatoes or red potatoes are the best choices for this dish. They’re waxy and hold their shape well, even after hours in the crockpot. Peel them if you prefer a smoother texture, but leaving the skins on adds a rustic charm.
The Italian seasoning blend is key. This mix of oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme gives the dish its signature flavor. If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to add those for an extra burst of aroma.
Garlic and onion serve as the aromatic foundation. They add depth and a savory undertone that ties all the ingredients together.
You’ll also need chicken broth and a splash of olive oil to create a light yet flavorful sauce. The broth keeps the dish moist while the olive oil enhances the richness of the chicken and potatoes.
How To Make This Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Making this dish is as easy as it gets. With a few simple steps, your crockpot will do all the work for you.
Start by prepping your ingredients. Wash and chop the potatoes into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. Peel and slice your onion, and mince the garlic for maximum flavor.
In the bottom of your crockpot, drizzle a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Layer the potatoes, followed by the onion and garlic. This creates a base that will soak up all the delicious juices as the dish cooks.
Season your chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Arrange them on top of the vegetables in a single layer. Pour chicken broth over everything to keep it moist and flavorful.
Set your crockpot to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and ensures the chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Once the time is up, check the potatoes with a fork to ensure they’re tender. Adjust the seasoning if needed, and give everything a gentle stir before serving.
This dish is best served hot, straight from the crockpot. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
Storage Options
Leftovers of Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes are a gift that keeps on giving. Here’s how to store them properly.
Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep everything moist.
For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
When reheating, always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to make it your own.
Swap the chicken thighs for chicken breasts or even bone-in chicken pieces. If you’re using breasts, reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent them from drying out.
Add vegetables like carrots, celery, or green beans for extra color and nutrition. Simply layer them with the potatoes for an all-in-one meal.
For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end of cooking. It creates a luscious sauce that’s perfect for spooning over the chicken and potatoes.
Experiment with spices. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for a cheesy twist.
Feeling adventurous? Swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes or butternut squash. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the Italian herbs.
No matter how you customize it, Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy experimenting and savoring this family favorite!
PrintItalian Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes Recipe
This Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes recipe combines tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and flavorful Italian seasonings for a delicious one-pot slow cooker meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hour
- Total Time: 6 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 lb baby potatoes (halved)
- 1 medium onion (sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place baby potatoes, onions, and minced garlic in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Toss to coat.
- Arrange chicken breasts on top of the potato mixture.
- Pour chicken broth into the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Optional: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the dish during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute baby potatoes with diced Yukon Gold or red potatoes.
- For added flavor, sear the chicken breasts in a skillet before adding to the crockpot.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with potatoes
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
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