This Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan is a cozy meal that slow-cooks chicken in a tasty tomato sauce. Topped with melty cheese, it’s simple and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. You could also use chicken thighs for a juicier result, or even turkey breasts if you’re looking for a leaner option.
Marinara Sauce: A good quality store-bought marinara works well, but feel free to swap it with homemade tomato sauce or any pasta sauce you have on hand.
Italian Seasoning: This mix is a classic. If you don’t have it, try using a combination of dried basil, oregano, and thyme instead. It gives a lovely herb flavor!
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that gooey texture. However, you can use provolone or even cheddar for a twist. For Parmesan, feel free to use a similar hard cheese if needed.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Tender in the Crock-Pot?
It’s important to avoid overcooking the chicken in the Crock-Pot to keep it juicy. Stick to the cooking times mentioned: low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Adding the cheese 15 minutes before you serve gives it time to melt without getting rubbery.
- Season your chicken well before cooking. It’s where a lot of the flavor will come from.
- Layer the marinara sauce over the chicken so it steams and helps with moisture.
- When checking if the chicken is done, it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- For the Sauce and Cheese:
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
- For Serving:
- Cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then it will cook in the Crock-Pot for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Just set it and forget it until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning each chicken breast with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Make sure to coat both sides evenly for the best flavor.
2. Place in the Crock-Pot:
Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the Crock-Pot. This helps them cook evenly.
3. Add the Marinara Sauce:
Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. This sauce will keep the chicken moist and add delicious flavor.
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the Crock-Pot and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it’s fully cooked and tender.
5. Add the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before the chicken is done, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the sauce. Cover it again to allow the cheese to melt beautifully.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, it’s time to serve! Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if you like. Serve the delicious chicken parmesan over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta, and enjoy a hearty meal!
Enjoy your easy, hands-off Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just adjust the cooking time; they may need an extra hour on low or 30 minutes on high. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything in the Crock-Pot the night before, refrigerate it, and then cook it the next day. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before starting to cook.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a touch of marinara sauce if it seems dry.
What Can I Serve with This Dish Besides Spaghetti?
If you’re looking for alternatives to spaghetti, serve the chicken parmesan over zucchini noodles, cooked quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a lighter meal. It’s also great with garlic bread on the side!
