Italian Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes Recipe

There’s nothing quite like coming home to the savory aroma of Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes wafting through the air. This dish combines tender, seasoned chicken with perfectly cooked, buttery potatoes, all infused with the flavors of Italian herbs and spices.

I discovered this recipe on a chilly winter day, searching for something hearty yet simple. It quickly became a family staple, a one-pot meal that’s both comforting and incredibly easy to prepare. Ready to learn why this slow cooker sensation deserves a spot in your weekly rotation? Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes

Prepare to meet your new favorite dinner! This Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is more than just a meal – it’s a time-saving lifesaver for busy families and a flavor-packed delight for your taste buds.

First, it’s incredibly hands-off. With just a few minutes of prep, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on your day while dinner cooks itself.

Second, the flavor combination is unbeatable. Think juicy chicken infused with garlic, rosemary, and oregano, paired with creamy potatoes soaking up all those savory juices.

It’s also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or hosting a casual dinner party, this recipe always earns rave reviews.

Finally, it’s budget-friendly and versatile. Using simple, affordable ingredients, this dish proves you don’t need to break the bank for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Plus, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences or whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes lies in its simple ingredients, each contributing to the dish's rustic charm and rich flavor.

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are my go-to for this recipe. They remain juicy during slow cooking and bring a depth of flavor you can’t get from boneless cuts. If you prefer, chicken breasts work too, but watch that they don’t overcook.
• Potatoes: Baby Yukon gold or red potatoes are perfect here. Their buttery texture holds up well in the slow cooker, and there’s no need to peel them – just give them a quick rinse and chop if needed.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of dried basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme adds that signature Italian flair. If you don’t have a pre-mixed blend, combine these herbs from your spice rack.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with a warm, savory aroma. Feel free to add extra cloves if you're a garlic lover!
• Chicken broth: This forms the base of the sauce, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful. For a richer taste, you can use white wine in place of some of the broth.

Finally, you’ll need a slow cooker to bring this dish to life. A 6-quart model works perfectly for this recipe, giving everything enough space to cook evenly.

How to Make Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes

This recipe couldn’t be simpler. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting dinner ready in no time.

1. Prep the Ingredients
   Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Chop the potatoes into bite-sized pieces if needed, and mince your garlic.
2. Layer in the Crockpot
   Place the potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker. Drizzle them with olive oil, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and scatter half of the garlic over the top. Arrange the chicken thighs over the potatoes, skin-side up, and add the remaining garlic.
3. Add the Liquid and Herbs
   Pour the chicken broth (or wine) over the chicken and potatoes. Toss in a few sprigs of fresh rosemary and thyme for added flavor. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
4. Cook Low and Slow
   Set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily pull apart, while the potatoes will be perfectly fork-tender.
5. Broil for a Crispy Finish (Optional)
   If you love crispy chicken skin, transfer the thighs to a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for 3-5 minutes before serving.

Total time: Approximately 6-8 hours, with only 15 minutes of active prep time.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this dish stores beautifully.

• Refrigerator: Transfer the chicken and potatoes to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the dish gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep everything moist.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Vegetable Swap: Add carrots, green beans, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. Just place them under the chicken to ensure even cooking.
• Herb Lovers: Swap the Italian seasoning for herbes de Provence or fresh parsley to give the dish a different twist.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end for a richer sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce for a touch of heat.
• Dairy-Free Option: Skip the butter and opt for a drizzle of olive oil to keep the dish dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.

Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is the perfect meal for those who crave comfort food without the fuss. Its simplicity, versatility, and rich flavors make it a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s make magic happen!

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