This Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan is a cozy dish that’s both tasty and simple! Just pop the chicken in with some marinara sauce and cheese, and let your slow cooker do the magic.
The best part? You can enjoy a delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen. I love serving it over pasta or with some crusty bread. Yum! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts work best here. If you’re looking for a substitute, chicken thighs are a great option for added juiciness, or use a rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep.
Marinara Sauce: A good quality marinara makes a big difference. You can also swap it with Alfredo sauce for a creamier twist or make your own if you prefer homemade flavors.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic for Chicken Parmesan, but feeling adventurous? Try provolone or even a mix of cheeses! For dairy-free options, nut-based cheese works too.
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have this handy, mix dried oregano, rosemary, and thyme. Fresh herbs are also a vibrant option if you have them on hand.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Tender?
To get the chicken perfectly tender, follow these tips. The slow cooker’s moist heat is key, so don’t open the lid too often while it’s cooking. Use fresh or high-quality chicken for best results.
- Season the chicken well before adding it to the Crock-Pot to enhance the flavor.
- Cooking on low for the longer time usually yields the best texture. Opt for 6 hours if possible.
- Make sure the chicken is submerged in the marinara sauce, this helps keep it moist.
Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting dish will take you about 10 minutes to prep and then you can let your Crock-Pot do the work! Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Once it’s done, just add your cheese and let it melt for a delicious finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder on both sides of the chicken. Make sure they’re evenly coated for that delicious flavor!
2. Arrange in the Crock-Pot:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of your Crock-Pot. This will allow them to soak up all the lovely marinara sauce flavor while cooking.
3. Add the Marinara Sauce:
Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken. Make sure every piece is well-covered, as this will keep the chicken moist while cooking.
4. Set the Cooking Time:
Cover the Crock-Pot and cook the chicken on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s fully cooked and tender. A good tip is to avoid opening the lid too often to keep the heat in!
5. Add the Cheeses:
About 15 minutes before your dish is done, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken. This is where the magic happens—yeah, cheese!
6. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the Crock-Pot again and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot over your favorite cooked pasta or with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Enjoy your hands-off, comforting Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan! It’s perfect for busy days or a cozy family dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
No, it’s best to use thawed chicken for this dish. Frozen chicken can take too long to cook in a Crock-Pot, potentially leading to uneven cooking. Make sure to thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method to speed things up.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and add it to the Crock-Pot in the morning to cook during the day. Just add the cheeses about 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve when you get home to enjoy fresh, melted cheese on top.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm it on the stove. If it seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of marinara sauce while reheating to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve With Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan?
This dish is excellent over pasta, but you can also serve it with garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It’s versatile, so feel free to get creative!
