This Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan is a lifesaver for busy days! Juicy chicken smothered in marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese cooks perfectly in the slow cooker.
The best part? You can go about your day while it does all the work! I love serving it over pasta or with some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. You can use thighs for extra flavor. If you want a healthier option, try using turkey cutlets instead.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara makes this dish quick, but you can easily make your own if you have extra time. For a twist, use Alfredo sauce instead for a creamy variation.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic, but you can mix in some provolone or even cheddar for a different flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, it’s worth trying vegan cheese alternatives.
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have it, you can mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme, or use fresh herbs if you have them. Fresh herbs really elevate the flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Juicy Chicken?
Cooking chicken in a Crock-Pot is great for keeping it tender. For juicy chicken, start by seasoning well to enhance flavor. Keep the lid on during cooking to maintain moisture.
- Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours for best results; the longer, the better. High heat can dry it out.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 165°F (75°C).
Lastly, adding cheese just before serving keeps it melty and delicious without overcooking!
Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 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 delicious Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan takes about 10 minutes of prep time. Cooking time is either 4-6 hours on LOW or 2-3 hours on HIGH. So, you can set it and forget it while you handle other things!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This will give the chicken lots of flavor.
2. Add the Chicken to the Crock-Pot:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of your Crock-Pot or slow cooker. Make sure they are laid out in a single layer for even cooking.
3. Pour on the Marinara Sauce:
Next, pour the marinara sauce over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well covered in sauce – this will keep the chicken moist while cooking!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover your Crock-Pot and set it to cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and super tender when it’s done!
5. Add the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to eat, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken. Cover it again to let the cheese melt.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, your Chicken Parmesan is ready! Garnish it with fresh basil or parsley if you want to add a nice touch. Serve it hot over cooked pasta or with some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy!
Happy cooking! Your easy, comforting Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan is sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just be sure to increase the cooking time. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, depending on your slow cooker, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and marinara sauce in advance and store them together in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking. Just combine them in the Crock-Pot when you’re ready to cook!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. The flavors will actually improve as they sit!
What Can I Serve with Chicken Parmesan?
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, but you can also serve it with rice, polenta, or a fresh salad to balance the richness. Crusty bread is fantastic for soaking up that delicious sauce, too!
