Slow Cooker Coq au Vin with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme leaves, plus 4 thyme sprigs
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 1/2 cups dry red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon
• 4 carrots, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 head garlic
• 4-5 small Yukon gold potatoes
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 pounds bone in chicken breasts or thighs, skin on or off
• 2 cups cremini mushrooms, halved
• 1/3 cup shredded gruyere cheese
• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• kosher salt and black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated
• 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream