01 -
First things first, let's get those potatoes and chicken ready. Wash and peel your Yukon Golds, then chop them into roughly 1-inch pieces. Don't make them too small, or they might get a bit too soft. Then, trim any excess fat from your boneless, skinless chicken thighs. I usually give them a quick pat dry with a paper towel; it helps the seasonings stick better. This is where I always make sure the cutting board is stable, nothing worse than a wobbly board when you're chopping!
02 -
In a large bowl, toss your chopped potatoes and chicken thighs with the minced fresh garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Really get in there with your hands and make sure everything is evenly coated. I love how the garlic smell starts to fill the kitchen even at this stage – it’s a promise of deliciousness to come! Don't be shy with the seasonings; this is where a lot of your flavor comes from. I once didn't season enough and the final dish was a bit bland, a mistake I won't repeat.
03 -
Now for the easy part! Transfer the seasoned chicken and potatoes into your slow cooker. Try to spread them out in an even layer. Then, pour in the chicken broth. I usually give the bowl a little rinse with some of the broth to make sure I get all those delicious spices into the pot. This step always feels like the calm before the delicious storm, just set it and forget it, mostly!
04 -
Dot the top of the chicken and potatoes with chunks of cream cheese. Just dollop them around; they'll melt down and create that incredible, rich sauce as the dish cooks. Sprinkle about half of the grated Parmesan cheese over everything. The cheese will melt into the sauce, adding that signature salty, nutty flavor. I've found if you add it all at the beginning, some of the parmesan can stick to the sides, so I save some for later.
05 -
Cover your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The cooking time can vary a bit depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on it. The chicken should be fall-apart tender, and the potatoes easily pierced with a fork. Resist the urge to lift the lid too often, honestly, every peek adds about 20-30 minutes to your cook time, and trust me, the wait is worth it!
06 -
Once everything is cooked through, give the contents of your slow cooker a good stir. The cream cheese and Parmesan will have melted into a wonderfully thick, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed – maybe a little more salt or pepper? Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan and fresh chopped parsley over the top for a final flourish. The aroma at this point is just incredible, making all the waiting worthwhile. Enjoy your perfect Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes!