👉SlowCookerGarlic HerbChicken – Recipes on a Budget

Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken and Cheddar Potatoes

Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that requires minimal effort? This Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken and Cheddar Potatoes is your answer. Tender chicken breasts, seasoned with garlic and herbs, cook on a bed of creamy, cheesy potatoes in the slow cooker for a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth dish. Perfect for busy nights or when you want a no-fuss dinner that everyone will love, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create maximum flavor. Just set it, forget it, and enjoy a home-cooked meal with minimal prep!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Layer the Potatoes: Start by layering the sliced russet potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will create a delicious base that absorbs all the flavors during cooking.
Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dried parsley, dried thyme, and minced garlic. Rub the seasonings into the chicken to ensure it’s evenly coated.
Place the Chicken: Lay the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the sliced potatoes in the slow cooker.
Add the Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth evenly over the chicken and potatoes. This will help create a moist and flavorful environment as everything cooks.
Cook the Casserole: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the potatoes are tender.
Add the Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken and potatoes. Cover and let it cook for the final 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is cooked, serve hot and enjoy this savory, cheesy meal.

Variations:

Add Vegetables: You can add carrots, onions, or bell peppers to the slow cooker for extra flavor and nutrition.
Use Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Spicy Version: For some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage along with the chicken.
Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks can also be used for a richer, juicier result.
Crispy Potatoes: If you prefer crispy potatoes, you can crisp the potatoes in the oven for 10-15 minutes after cooking.
Creamy Version: Add a cup of sour cream or cream cheese for an even creamier texture.
Lemon Herb Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some lemon zest for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
Add Bacon: Crumbled bacon or bacon bits can be sprinkled over the top for a delicious smoky flavor.

Serving Tips:

Serve with a Side Salad: This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the cheese and potatoes.
Pair with Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, toasted garlic bread to complete the meal and soak up the delicious broth.
Make it a Sandwich: For a fun twist, shred the chicken and serve it on a bun with melted cheese for a chicken sandwich.
Top with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving for an added burst of color and flavor.
Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, drizzle some hot sauce or add sliced jalapeños on top.

20 FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, frozen chicken breasts can be used, but they will take longer to cook, so plan for the longer cook time.
Can I use other types of potatoes? Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but russets work best for a creamy texture.
Can I cook this on high instead of low? Yes, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours, but the potatoes may not be as tender as when cooked on low for a longer time.
Can I use bone-in chicken? Yes, bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks will work well, but you may need to adjust the cooking time by about 30 minutes.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate it. Then, just cook it when you’re ready to eat.
Can I add more cheese? Yes, you can add more cheese for a cheesier dish! Feel free to layer in cheese throughout the cooking process.
How do I know when the chicken is done? The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be fully cooked.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture. Just adjust the cook time accordingly.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I add other seasonings? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for different flavors.
Can I use a different kind of broth? You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even beef broth for a richer flavor.
Can I make this dish without cheese? Yes, you can omit the cheese if you prefer a lighter version of the dish, but the cheese adds a delicious creamy texture.
Can I add more garlic? Yes, if you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add extra garlic cloves for more flavor.
How do I prevent the potatoes from being mushy? Make sure to slice the potatoes evenly and don’t overcook them. Check them after the recommended time.
Can I use pre-sliced potatoes? Yes, you can use pre-sliced potatoes or even frozen hashbrowns in a pinch, though fresh potatoes provide better texture.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker? Yes, you can cook this dish in the oven at 350°F for about 1 hour, or until the chicken and potatoes are fully cooked.
Can I add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers? Yes, adding carrots or bell peppers is a great way to enhance the flavor and add nutrition to the dish.
What should I serve this with? This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, steamed veggies, or even some homemade garlic bread.
Can I add a creamy sauce? Yes, you can add a creamy sauce like Alfredo or ranch dressing to give the dish extra richness.

20 Best Tips for Making This Dish Perfect:

Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, rather than garlic powder.
Slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
Season the chicken well to really bring out the flavors of the herbs.
Check the chicken’s temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Layer the potatoes first in the slow cooker for even cooking.
Don’t skip the cheese—it adds richness and creaminess to the dish.
Make sure the chicken is placed on top of the potatoes so it can absorb all the juices as it cooks.
Use a slow cooker liner to make cleanup easier.
If you like crispy cheese, broil it in the oven for a few minutes at the end.
Add some fresh herbs at the end for a burst of freshness and color.
Add extra broth if needed to keep the potatoes moist throughout cooking.
Test the potatoes for doneness by piercing them with a fork—they should be tender.
Add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for more variety.
Adjust seasoning based on your taste, adding more salt or herbs as needed.
Try using sweet potatoes for a different flavor twist.
Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker—leave some space for the steam to circulate.
Use bone-in chicken for more flavor, but increase the cooking time slightly.
Top with crispy bacon bits for an added savory crunch.
Add a touch of lemon juice just before serving to brighten up the flavors.
Use full-fat cheese for the creamiest texture.