Total Time: 4–8 hours
Difficulty Level: Extremely Easy (true dump-and-go)
Few dinners are as foolproof—or as comforting—as this Dump-and-Go Crockpot Chicken with Potatoes. With no browning, no sautéing, and barely any chopping, this dish brings together tender chicken, buttery potatoes, gentle herbs, and a savory broth that turns into a naturally thickened gravy-like sauce.
It’s the kind of recipe that fills your home with the smell of cozy, slow-simmered goodness without any of the work. Perfect for nights when you’re too busy to cook, lazy Sundays, or when you need something crowd-pleasing that practically makes itself.
A plate comes in around 350–400 calories, depending on portion size and whether you add a drizzle of olive oil.
Key Ingredients
Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Moist, tender protein that shreds or slices easily
Baby Potatoes – Creamy, hearty, and perfect for absorbing flavors
Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and color
Yellow Onion – Builds the savory base
Garlic – Warm, aromatic depth
Olive Oil – Optional richness that coats the chicken and potatoes
Chicken Broth – Light cooking liquid that becomes flavorful sauce
Paprika – Adds warmth and light smokiness
Italian Seasoning – Herbal blend that ties everything together
Dried Thyme – Earthy flavor that complements potatoes
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasoning
Fresh Parsley – Bright green finish
Butter (optional) – A small amount adds wonderful richness
Lemon Juice (optional) – Brightens everything at the end
How to Make It (Step-by-Step Method)
1. Layer the Veggies
Place baby potatoes (halved if large), carrots, and onion into the slow cooker. No need for precision—rustic cuts work best.
2. Add the Chicken
Place chicken breasts or thighs directly on top of the vegetables.
3. Season Generously
Sprinkle paprika, Italian seasoning, thyme, salt, and pepper over the chicken and veggies. Add garlic on top.
4. Pour in Broth + Optional Enhancers
Pour chicken broth around (not on top of) the chicken to keep seasonings in place. Add olive oil or a few pats of butter if you want a richer finish.
5. Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
- Low: 7–8 hours
- High: 3.5–4 hours
Chicken should be fork-tender, potatoes soft, and the broth slightly thickened.
6. Shred or Slice the Chicken
Remove chicken, shred or slice, then return it to the crockpot. Stir everything gently to combine.
7. Finish with Fresh Touches
Taste and adjust seasonings. Add parsley and a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors before serving.
Texture cues: potatoes tender with soft edges, chicken easily shreddable, veggies lightly fragrant and infused with herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Family Tray Dinner
Scoop chicken and potatoes into a large serving dish and spoon extra broth over the top.
Cozy Bowls
Serve in deep bowls with a side of crusty bread to soak up the savory juices.
Comfort Plate
Pair with:
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted broccoli
- Simple garden salad
- Buttered peas
Build-Your-Own Bar
Lay out toppings like shredded cheese, hot sauce, chopped herbs, or lemon wedges.
Meal-Prep Boxes
Portion chicken and potatoes with a green veggie for an easy meal-prep lunch.
Storage + Meal Prep
Refrigerate:
Store in airtight containers for 3–4 days. The flavor deepens as it rests.
Freeze:
Freeze chicken only (potatoes can soften too much). Freeze up to 3 months in portions.
Reheat:
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove. Add a splash of broth or water to refresh the sauce. Top with fresh parsley or a hint of lemon to brighten the flavor on day two.
Conclusion
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a recipe that doesn’t demand attention yet tastes like a home-cooked classic. This crockpot chicken and potatoes is warm, hearty, and unbelievably simple—exactly the kind of dinner that becomes part of your weekly rotation.
Feel free to make it your own by adding extra vegetables, swapping herbs, or choosing your favorite potato variety. When you try it, I’d love to hear your twist—you might inspire the next version of this cozy, dump-and-go favorite.
