Crockpot Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

I love quick skillet dinners, but cooking this in the crockpot is easier and so much more flavorful because everything slowly blends together for hours. The butter melts into the chicken, the garlic becomes soft and aromatic, and the potatoes become perfectly tender without falling apart. It’s simple, comforting, and feels like a special dinner even though it takes very little effort. Crockpot Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes is one of those comforting meals that makes the whole house smell warm and cozy.

 It’s rich, buttery, full of garlic flavor, and incredibly easy to prepare. The slow cooker does most of the work, which makes it perfect for busy days when you still want something homemade and satisfying on the table. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, while the potatoes soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce.

I have made this recipe so many times for my family. I use fresh garlic, real butter, and baby potatoes always because they give the best flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients really make a difference here. The simple seasoning keeps it classic and comforting, but you can easily adjust it depending on your taste.

You can serve it with steamed vegetables, some crusty bread, also with a light green salad for a complete and balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with roasted broccoli or green beans if you want something extra on the side.

Its Perfect For:

  • Busy Weeknights
  • Family Dinners
  • Meal Prep
  • Cold Weather Meals
  • Beginner Cooks

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 1/2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Crockpot / Slow Cooker
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Garlic press (optional)
  • Serving spoon

How to Make Crockpot Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes

Step 1

Prepare the garlic butter mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, thyme, Italian seasoning, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is fully combined and smooth. The butter should be evenly mixed with the herbs and garlic so the flavor distributes evenly while cooking.

Step 2

Layer the ingredients: Lightly spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the halved baby potatoes evenly across the bottom. Season them lightly with a small pinch of salt and pepper. Arrange the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the potatoes in a single layer so they cook evenly and absorb the garlic butter flavor.

Step 3

Add the butter sauce: Slowly pour the prepared garlic butter mixture over the chicken and potatoes. Make sure each piece of chicken is coated, using a spoon to spread the garlic bits evenly over the top. Carefully pour the chicken broth along the sides of the crockpot to keep the seasoning in place while adding moisture.

Step 4

Slow cook: Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. The chicken should be tender and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The potatoes should be soft and easily pierced with a fork. Avoid opening the lid frequently, as this releases heat and may increase cooking time.

Step 5

Finish and serve: Once done, gently spoon some of the buttery cooking juices from the bottom over the chicken and potatoes for extra flavor. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish. Serve warm and drizzle additional garlic butter sauce over each portion for the best taste and presentation.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Use fresh garlic
    Fresh garlic gives a stronger and more natural flavor.
    Garlic powder can work, but fresh really makes it special.
    It becomes sweet and mellow after slow cooking.
  • Don’t skip the butter
    Butter creates the rich sauce that makes this dish shine.
    It keeps the chicken moist during cooking.
    Using real butter gives better flavor than margarine.
  • Cut potatoes evenly
    Try to cut the potatoes in similar sizes.
    This helps them cook evenly.
    Uneven pieces may leave some too soft and others too firm.
  • Layer properly
    Place potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot.
    The chicken should sit on top.
    This allows the potatoes to cook fully in the juices.
  • Avoid opening the lid
    Every time you open it, heat escapes.
    This can add extra cooking time.
    Trust the slow cooker to do its job.
  • Check chicken temperature
    The safe internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).
    Use a meat thermometer if possible.
    This ensures your chicken is fully cooked and safe.
  • Add fresh herbs at the end
    Fresh parsley adds brightness and color.
    It balances the rich butter flavor.
    Always sprinkle it just before serving.

Optional Ingredients

  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Lemon zest
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Fresh rosemary
  • Mushrooms
  • Heavy cream for a creamier sauce

How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes

I love serving this dish straight from the crockpot while it’s still warm and juicy. I carefully place the chicken on the plate first, then add a generous spoonful of those buttery, garlic-soaked potatoes right next to it. I always drizzle extra garlic butter sauce over everything because that’s where all the flavor is. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top makes it look fresh and beautiful.

I also enjoy pairing it with something light to balance the richness. I usually prepare a simple green salad with lettuce, cucumber, and a light lemon dressing. The freshness of the salad cuts through the butter perfectly and makes the whole meal feel more complete. Sometimes I serve it with steamed broccoli or green beans for extra color and nutrition.

I sometimes add warm crusty bread on the side, especially when I know there will be extra sauce. The bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of that delicious garlic butter. If I’m serving guests, I like to plate it nicely on a large serving dish and spoon the sauce over the top just before bringing it to the table. It looks comforting, elegant, and inviting all at the same time.

Is Crockpot Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Healthy?

This recipe can absolutely be part of a balanced meal. It contains protein from the chicken and fiber and nutrients from the potatoes. Since it’s homemade, you control the ingredients and the amount of butter and salt used, which makes it easier to manage portions and calories.

If you want to make it lighter, you can reduce the butter slightly or use skinless chicken breasts. Adding more vegetables on the side also makes it more nutritious and balanced. Like most comfort foods, it’s all about balance and portion size.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Creamy Garlic Version
    Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream during the last 30 minutes.
    It creates a rich and creamy sauce.
    You can also stir in cream cheese for thickness.
    This version feels extra indulgent and comforting.
  • Lemon Garlic Version
    Add fresh lemon juice before serving.
    It brightens the entire dish beautifully.
    Lemon zest adds even more fresh flavor.
    Perfect for spring and summer meals.
  • Spicy Version
    Add red pepper flakes for heat.
    You can also include a pinch of cayenne pepper.
    It gives a gentle kick to the butter sauce.
    Adjust the spice level to your family’s taste.
  • Herb Lover’s Version
    Use fresh rosemary and thyme.
    Add them during slow cooking.
    They create a deeper and earthy flavor.
    Perfect for holiday-style dinners.
  • Boneless Thigh Version
    Use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
    They stay extra juicy and tender.
    The flavor becomes slightly richer.
    Great choice for slow cooking recipes.
  • Vegetable Loaded Version
    Add carrots and green beans.
    Place them under the chicken.
    They cook beautifully in the garlic butter juices.
    Makes it a complete one-pot meal.
  • Dairy-Free Version
    Use olive oil instead of butter.
    The flavor will be lighter but still delicious.
    Add extra garlic for richness.
    Perfect for those avoiding dairy.
  • Cheesy Version
    Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.
    Cover for 10 minutes until melted.
    It becomes gooey and comforting.
    Kids especially love this version.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure the chicken and potatoes cool completely before sealing the container to avoid extra moisture building up inside. Keeping it sealed tightly helps maintain freshness and flavor.

Reheat in the microwave in short 1-minute intervals, turning the chicken halfway through to heat evenly. You can also reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat with a small splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Avoid overheating, as this can make the chicken dry and the potatoes too soft.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes 

Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?
I always recommend thawing the chicken first for best results. Frozen chicken releases extra moisture, which can water down the garlic butter sauce and affect the texture. Thawed chicken cooks more evenly and absorbs the flavors much better.

Can I cook this recipe only on high?
Yes, you can cook it on high for about 3–4 hours if you are short on time. I still prefer cooking it on low because the chicken becomes more tender and flavorful over the longer cooking time. Just make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Can I prepare everything the night before?
Yes, and I actually love doing this on busy weeks. You can chop the potatoes and mix the garlic butter ahead of time, then store everything separately in the fridge. In the morning, simply layer everything in the crockpot and turn it on for an easy start.

Can I add more vegetables to make it a full one-pot meal?
Absolutely. I often add carrots, green beans, or even mushrooms depending on what I have. Just cut them into even pieces so they cook evenly. Place firmer vegetables at the bottom so they soften properly during slow cooking.

Crockpot Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Recipe by Maria MeyerCourse: Main CourseCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

4

hours

This Crockpot Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes recipe is simple, comforting, and perfect for everyday family meals. It’s rich without being complicated, and it always brings everyone to the table feeling warm and satisfied.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

  • 1 1/2 lbs baby potatoes, halved

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 5 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley)

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

  • Salt, to taste

  • Black pepper, to taste

  • 1/4 cup chicken broth

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

  • Prepare the garlic butter mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, thyme, Italian seasoning, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is fully combined and smooth. The butter should be evenly mixed with the herbs and garlic so the flavor distributes evenly while cooking.
  • Layer the ingredients: Lightly spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the halved baby potatoes evenly across the bottom. Season them lightly with a small pinch of salt and pepper. Arrange the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the potatoes in a single layer so they cook evenly and absorb the garlic butter flavor.
  • Add the butter sauce: Slowly pour the prepared garlic butter mixture over the chicken and potatoes. Make sure each piece of chicken is coated, using a spoon to spread the garlic bits evenly over the top. Carefully pour the chicken broth along the sides of the crockpot to keep the seasoning in place while adding moisture.
  • Slow cook: Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. The chicken should be tender and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The potatoes should be soft and easily pierced with a fork. Avoid opening the lid frequently, as this releases heat and may increase cooking time.
  • Finish and serve: Once done, gently spoon some of the buttery cooking juices from the bottom over the chicken and potatoes for extra flavor. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish. Serve warm and drizzle additional garlic butter sauce over each portion for the best taste and presentation.
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