Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple, comforting, and family-friendly meal, look no further than this Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this dish requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. The combination of tender, juicy chicken, buttery potatoes, and a rich, savory sauce makes this meal a winner every time.

Using a slow cooker, you can achieve fall-apart chicken and fork-tender potatoes with little hands-on time. Just set it and forget it, and come back to a hearty, one-pot meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, this recipe is healthy, customizable, and can easily feed a crowd. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this is the perfect go-to recipe for your repertoire.

Why This Recipe Works

Hands-off cooking: Set it in the slow cooker and forget it. Minimal prep with no fuss.
Healthy and nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing recipe that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor!

For more chicken inspiration, try these healthy shredded chicken recipes that are also perfect for meal prep!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Slow cooker meals have become staples for busy households, and this recipe is no exception. Here’s why this Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes recipe stands out from the rest:

1. Minimal Prep Time

With only a handful of ingredients, you can throw this together in 10-15 minutes. It’s as simple as chopping the potatoes, seasoning the chicken, and letting the slow cooker handle the rest.

2. Healthy, Nutritious, and Delicious

This recipe is packed with nutrients:

Chicken provides lean protein, which is great for muscle maintenance and overall health.
Potatoes offer complex carbohydrates, fiber, potassium, and Vitamin C.
The herbs and spices used in this recipe, such as garlic, Italian seasoning, and fresh parsley, add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.

3. Family-Friendly and Picky Eater Approved

This recipe is a hit for all ages. The combination of chicken and potatoes is a tried-and-true classic that even picky eaters will enjoy. Plus, it’s easily customizable if you want to add more veggies, cheese, or a creamy sauce to suit your family’s taste preferences.

4. Set-It-And-Forget-It

The dump-and-go nature of this dish is a lifesaver for busy days. No hovering over the stove, no stirring required—just set the slow cooker on low, and let it work its magic. You’ll return hours later to a warm, satisfying meal with minimal effort.

5. Versatility at its Best

This recipe is incredibly versatile:

You can use chicken breasts or thighs, depending on what you prefer or have on hand.
Swap the potatoes with sweet potatoes or add in other veggies like carrots or green beans for a more nutrient-dense dish.
Want it spicy? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

6. Perfect for Meal Prep

This recipe is great for meal prep. Make a large batch and store it in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week. Leftovers taste even better the next day!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

Here’s a list of simple ingredients you’ll need for this recipe. You probably already have most of these in your pantry!

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs	1.5 pounds	Use chicken thighs for juicier results
Baby potatoes (Yukon gold or red)	1 pound	Halve or quarter them for even cooking
Baby carrots (optional)	1 cup	Optional but adds sweetness and color
Butter	5 tablespoons	Adds richness to the sauce
Garlic (minced)	5 cloves	Adds bold flavor and depth
Italian seasoning	1 tablespoon	A blend of herbs for a Mediterranean flair
Lemon (zested and juiced)	1-2 lemons	Brightens the flavor
Honey	2 tablespoons	Balances the tartness of the lemon
Grated Parmesan cheese	½ cup	Adds salty, nutty flavor (or use feta for a tangier option)
Kosher salt and black pepper	To taste	Essential seasonings
Red pepper flakes (optional)	⅛ teaspoon	Adds a subtle kick if desired
Fresh parsley (for garnish)	¼ cup chopped	For a pop of color and freshness

Optional Add-Ins:

Green beans: Add these towards the end of cooking for some crunch.
Mushrooms: Sauté them with garlic and add them in for an earthy depth of flavor.
Cheese: A sprinkle of mozzarella or cheddar cheese melts wonderfully into the potatoes.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making this easy and delicious Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes.

1. Prep the Ingredients

Wash and scrub the potatoes. Cut larger potatoes into quarters and smaller ones in half.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic.

2. Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Place the potatoes and carrots (if using) at the bottom of your slow cooker. This ensures that they cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
Lay the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the vegetables.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter, and then stir in the garlic, lemon juice and zest, and Italian seasoning. Pour half of this mixture over the chicken and vegetables, reserving the other half for later.

3. Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F, and the potatoes should be fork-tender.

4. Finish and Serve

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and keep it warm.
Test the potatoes and carrots for tenderness. If they need more time, continue cooking until they’re soft.
Reheat the remaining butter sauce, stir in the honey, and pour it over the cooked chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle Parmesan on top, and garnish with fresh parsley.
For another easy and delicious chicken option, try these baked chicken cutlets for a quick meal!

5. Enjoy!

Serve the chicken and potatoes warm, drizzling extra sauce over the top for added flavor.

Recipe Variations for Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for several variations based on dietary preferences, taste, and what ingredients you have on hand.

1. Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes with Carrots

For a more balanced meal, add baby carrots or chopped carrots into the mix. They add a sweet contrast to the savory chicken and potatoes. Simply layer the carrots with the potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. Slow Cooker Chicken and Sweet Potatoes

If you prefer a slightly sweeter and healthier option, swap out the regular potatoes with sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and add a nice contrast to the savory chicken.

3. Creamy Chicken and Potatoes

To make this dish creamy, add ½ cup of heavy cream or a can of cream of chicken soup towards the end of cooking. The sauce will thicken and create a rich, indulgent meal.

4. Extra Lemony Chicken and Potatoes

For those who love a citrusy zing, double the lemon zest, and use the juice of two lemons. After cooking, squeeze the extra lemon juice over the finished dish for an extra burst of flavor.

5. Spicy Chicken and Potatoes

Add some heat to the recipe by incorporating red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the seasoning mix. You can also serve it with a side of spicy ranch for an extra kick.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

Follow these tips to ensure your Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes comes out perfectly every time:

Cut the Potatoes Evenly: To ensure they cook evenly, cut the potatoes into uniform sizes, about 1-inch pieces. This helps avoid undercooked or mushy potatoes.
Check Chicken Doneness with a Thermometer: Chicken can easily overcook in a slow cooker. To avoid dry chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for heat to circulate.
Add Cheese at the End: If you want to add cheese like mozzarella or cheddar, sprinkle it on in the last 10 minutes of cooking, just enough time to melt but not overcook.
Reheat the Butter Sauce for Extra Flavor: Before serving, reheat the butter mixture and pour it over the chicken and potatoes. This ensures the dish remains juicy and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

1. Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but the cooking time will need to be increased. Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

2. Do I need to brown the chicken before slow cooking?

Browning the chicken is optional. It adds flavor, but it’s not necessary for this recipe. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more forgiving and tend to stay juicier in the slow cooker. If you prefer dark meat, thighs are a great option.

4. Can I make this recipe in the Instant Pot?

Yes! You can convert this recipe to an Instant Pot by using the sauté function to brown the chicken first, then pressure cooking for 8-10 minutes on high, followed by a quick release.

5. How can I thicken the sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker 30 minutes before the end of cooking.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

This hearty meal is great on its own, but here are a few sides that complement the dish beautifully:

Sautéed Green Beans: Add a splash of color and crunch to your plate with crispy green beans sautéed in garlic butter.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted with olive oil, garlic, and lemon, they provide a tangy balance to the creamy chicken.
Simple Arugula Salad: A fresh salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the chicken and potatoes.
Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

This recipe stores well, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep.

To Store:

In the fridge: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
In the freezer: You can freeze the chicken and vegetables (though the texture of potatoes might change slightly). Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

To Reheat:

Microwave: Reheat portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Warm the chicken and potatoes in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.