If you’re on the lookout for a no-fuss, satisfying meal that fills your home with the aroma of cozy comfort, you’ve found it with this Easy Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes Dinner Recipe. It’s everything you want in a hearty dinner—tender chicken, perfectly cooked potatoes, and a blend of herbs and spices that make every bite a delight. Best of all, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, which means you can walk away and come back to a warm, delicious meal without any stress or last-minute hustle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays its part in building a comforting texture and flavor profile: juicy chicken, tender potatoes, fragrant herbs, and a touch of richness from olive oil. These ingredients are easy to find but come together like a gourmet feast in your slow cooker.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs): Choose chicken breasts for a leaner option or thighs if you want extra juiciness and flavor.
- 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, diced: Potatoes soak up the tasty juices, making every bite soft and flavorful.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish as it slowly cooks down.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory backbone with aromatic intensity.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses the potatoes with rich flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb for poultry that brings earthiness and warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Provides a fragrant, pine-like note that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and beautiful color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to balance and bring all the flavors forward.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps keep the chicken moist and gives a slight golden finish.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping): Melts over the cooked dish for a rich, comforting twist.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Crockpot
Start by lightly greasing your slow cooker with a non-stick spray or a bit of olive oil. This simple step ensures that nothing sticks to the bottom, making cleanup easy and keeping the potatoes and chicken intact after cooking.
Step 2: Layer the Vegetables
Place the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic at the very bottom of the crockpot. This layering is crucial because the potatoes need sufficient cooking time and will absorb all the delicious juices from above.
Step 3: Season and Add the Chicken
Take your chicken breasts and season them thoroughly with salt, pepper, dried thyme, rosemary, and paprika. These spices aren’t just for flavor but also add an inviting aroma during cooking. Place the seasoned chicken right on top of the vegetable layer to allow all those savory flavors to mingle.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Olive Oil
Pour the chicken broth evenly over the chicken and vegetables, providing enough moisture for the slow cooker to work its magic. Then drizzle olive oil over the chicken, which helps keep it moist and adds a lovely richness to the final dish.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The low and slow method is best for ultimate tenderness, making it the hallmark of this Easy Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes Dinner Recipe. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender, juices run clear, and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 6: Optional Cheese Topping
In the final 10-15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt into the warm ingredients. This addition creates a decadent layer that’s great for those who love a gooey, cheesy finish.
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives adds a bright pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the hearty dish. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a lively zing that cuts through the richness.
Side Dishes
This meal stands wonderfully on its own, but if you want to round it out, consider serving it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans. These sides lend a refreshing crunch and lighten the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the chicken and potatoes in individual ceramic ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. This turns the dish into a charming presentation, perfect for casual dinners or impressing guests without extra effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen after sitting, making for a delicious lunch the next day.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative, offering juicier meat and a richer flavor. Just adjust your cooking time slightly if you notice they need a bit longer to cook through.
What type of potatoes works best for this recipe?
Yukon gold or red potatoes are perfect here because they hold their shape well and become tender without turning mushy. Russets can work too but tend to be softer after slow cooking.
Do I need to brown the chicken before adding it to the crockpot?
It’s not necessary for this recipe since the long cooking in the crockpot will develop flavor and tenderize the chicken. Browning is optional if you want extra color and texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the shredded cheddar cheese or use a plant-based alternative. The dish tastes great on its own even without cheese.
Is it possible to cook this recipe on high if I’m short on time?
Yes, you can use the high setting on your slow cooker for 3-4 hours instead of low. Just keep an eye toward the end to ensure the chicken stays juicy and doesn’t overcook.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes Dinner Recipe is a true game-changer on busy nights when you crave a warm, homemade meal with minimal effort. It’s a dish that comforts and satisfies, and once you try it, I’m sure it will become one of your go-to favorites too. Give it a shot—you’ll love how easy and rewarding slow cooking can be!
Print
Easy Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy crockpot dinner features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked low and slow with flavorful herbs, garlic, and hearty potatoes. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, it requires minimal prep and delivers a satisfying, home-cooked taste. Optionally topped with melted cheddar cheese, this dish combines simple ingredients into a delicious one-pot meal.
Ingredients
Proteins
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Vegetables
- 4–5 medium-sized potatoes, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
- Layer Ingredients: Place the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic at the bottom of the crockpot, creating a flavorful vegetable base.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, dried thyme, rosemary, and paprika to infuse the meat with aromatic flavors. Then, place the seasoned chicken on top of the arranged vegetables.
- Add Liquid: Pour the chicken broth evenly over the chicken and vegetables to keep everything moist during cooking. Drizzle the olive oil on top for added richness and flavor.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender, and the potatoes soft.
- Optional – Add Cheese: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the chicken and vegetables about 10 minutes before serving. Cover to allow the cheese to melt completely.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the chicken and potatoes hot, enjoying a warm, comforting crockpot meal with minimal effort.
Notes
- You can use either chicken breasts or thighs depending on preference; thighs may be juicier.
- Adjust seasoning amounts according to taste preference.
- If you like a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid in the last 30 minutes to let some liquid evaporate.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free option, skip the cheddar cheese topping.
