This Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan is a warm and cheesy delight! Juicy chicken breasts cook slowly with marinara sauce and are topped with melted mozzarella. What’s not to love?
You can just toss everything in the Crock-Pot and let it work its magic—no fuss! I like to serve it with spaghetti or on a crispy bun for a tasty sandwich. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best as they stay tender during slow cooking. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use chicken thighs, which are juicier and can withstand longer cooking times.
Marinara Sauce: A good quality marinara makes this dish shine! If you prefer, homemade sauce is a great alternative or even a simple tomato-basil sauce will work well.
Cheese: Mozzarella is essential for that gooey texture on top, while Parmesan gives a nice salty flavor. You can replace mozzarella with provolone or a dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant.
Italian Seasoning: This blend enhances the flavor of the dish. If you don’t have it, try using individual herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme instead.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy in the Crock-Pot, proper seasoning and cooking time are key. Here’s how to nail it:
- Season the chicken thoroughly on all sides for flavor.
- Cook on low heat for a longer time to break down the proteins without drying out.
- Don’t remove the lid during cooking; this keeps the moisture locked in.
By following these tips, your chicken will be flavorful and tender every time!
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 dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)
- Cooked pasta or bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then cooks for 5-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the Crock-Pot. Perfect for a hassle-free dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts. Evenly sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides of the chicken for maximum flavor.
2. Layer in the Crock-Pot:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of your Crock-Pot. Make sure they’re laying flat so they cook evenly.
3. Add Marinara Sauce:
Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is covered. This will keep the chicken moist as it cooks.
4. Cook Your Chicken:
Cover the Crock-Pot and set it to low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s cooked through and tender. You’ll know it’s done when it shreds easily with a fork!
5. Melt the Cheese:
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top of the chicken. Cover the pot to let the cheese melt and become bubbly.
6. Final Touches:
Once the cheese is melted, you can garnish your Chicken Parmesan with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken hot over your choice of cooked pasta or on a toasted bun for a delicious sandwich. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Feel free to enjoy this easy and comforting Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan any day of the week!
FAQ for Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that you may need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours when using frozen chicken. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before and refrigerate it. Just pop it in the Crock-Pot in the morning and set it to cook while you’re out. It’s a great meal prep option!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little marinara to keep it moist.
What Can I Substitute for Marinara Sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce, you can use any tomato-based sauce like marinara, tomato basil, or even a homemade tomato sauce. Just make sure it has plenty of flavor for the best results!
