There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes filling your kitchen. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, flavorful potatoes, and a medley of Italian-inspired herbs and spices for a meal that's as satisfying as it is simple to prepare.
I discovered this recipe during a busy week when I needed a hands-off dinner option that still felt like a warm hug on a plate. Since then, it has become a staple in my household, perfect for cozy family dinners or effortless entertaining. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Italian Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes
Get ready to fall head over heels for this easy and delicious meal. This Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is a game-changer for anyone who loves comfort food without the fuss.
First, it’s incredibly simple to make. All you need to do is toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. No complicated steps or babysitting required—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
The flavors are out of this world. The combination of juicy chicken, buttery potatoes, and fragrant Italian seasonings creates a dish that’s both savory and satisfying. Plus, the slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
It’s also a one-pot wonder. No extra pans or dishes to clean up afterward—just a wholesome, well-rounded meal that’s ready when you are.
Lastly, this recipe is endlessly versatile. Whether you want to switch up the veggies, use a different cut of chicken, or add some extra herbs and spices, it’s easy to make this dish your own.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of this Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to create a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Chicken thighs are the star of the dish. Their higher fat content keeps them tender and juicy during the slow cooking process. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may cook faster and could dry out.
- Baby potatoes bring a creamy, buttery texture that pairs beautifully with the chicken. You can use Yukon gold or red potatoes if baby potatoes aren’t available—just cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Italian seasoning is the flavor powerhouse here. This blend of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary ensures a savory, herby punch in every bite. If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, feel free to create your own mix with pantry spices.
- Garlic adds depth and warmth to the dish. Freshly minced garlic is ideal, but pre-minced jarred garlic works in a pinch.
- Chicken broth forms the base of the sauce, infusing the potatoes and chicken with extra flavor. Low-sodium broth is a great option to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Parmesan cheese brings a subtle nuttiness to the final dish. It’s optional, but a sprinkle on top just before serving takes this recipe to the next level.
No special equipment is needed—just your trusty slow cooker and a sharp knife for chopping ingredients.
How To Make This Italian Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes
Creating this comforting dish is as easy as layering ingredients and letting your crockpot do the work. Here’s how to make it step by step.
Start by prepping your ingredients. Wash the baby potatoes and slice them in half if they’re larger than bite-sized. Mince your garlic and pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel.
Layer the potatoes at the bottom of your crockpot. This ensures they’re fully cooked by the time the dish is done, as they take a little longer to soften than the chicken.
Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place them on top of the potatoes, skin-side up if you’re using skin-on thighs.
Add the minced garlic and pour in the chicken broth. The liquid will keep everything moist and flavorful as it cooks.
Set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule. Resist the urge to open the lid while cooking—it’s important to keep the heat consistent for the best results.
Once the cooking time is up, check the chicken for doneness. It should be tender and easily pull apart with a fork. Give everything a gentle stir to coat the potatoes in the flavorful juices at the bottom of the pot.
Storage Options
Leftovers of this Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes are a blessing in disguise. Here’s how to store them for maximum freshness.
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
For longer storage, you can freeze the leftovers. Place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
To reheat, warm the dish in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore its saucy consistency.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so don’t be afraid to make it your own!
- Swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes or carrots for a slightly sweeter flavor profile.
- Add a splash of white wine to the broth for a more complex sauce.
- Use bone-in chicken thighs for even more flavor, but remember they may need a little extra time to cook.
- Toss in some chopped spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a pop of green and added nutrition.
- Make it spicy by adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Experiment with these ideas and find your favorite twist on this comforting classic. You might just discover your new go-to family dinner!
PrintItalian Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes Recipe
This Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful herbs, and hearty potatoes for a comforting, slow-cooked meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a cozy dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and bursting with Italian-inspired flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 1 cup baby carrots
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ⅓ cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken thighs until golden, about 3–4 minutes per side. Set aside.
- In the crockpot, add potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.
- Pour chicken broth over the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is fully cooked and potatoes are tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the broth.
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken provides better flavor, but you can substitute with boneless chicken thighs or breasts.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh + vegetables
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
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