Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3 hours 10 minutes (high)
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 450
Protein: 40 grams
Carbohydrates: 10 grams
Fat: 25 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 6 grams
Sodium: 800 mg

Why Make This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan

Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors and a satisfying texture, all while being incredibly simple to prepare. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb the tangy marinara sauce, keeping it tender and juicy. With melted cheese crowning your dish, it’s a delightful meal that brings warmth and smiles to the dining table. Perfect for busy weeknights, you can set it and forget it while savoring the delicious aroma wafting through your home.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken Parmesan

Follow these easy-to-understand steps to create your own Crockpot Chicken Parmesan that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder. This step enhances the flavor and will make your chicken incredibly tasty.
Step 2: Arranging in the Crockpot

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the crockpot. Make sure they are spread out evenly so that they cook uniformly.
Step 3: Adding Marinara Sauce

Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-covered. This sauce will infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks.
Step 4: Cooking

Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The low and slow method is preferred for maximum tenderness, but both options work great.
Step 5: Melting the Cheese

About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese over the chicken. Cover the crockpot to allow the cheese to melt beautifully.
Step 6: Serving

When the cheese is gooey and melted, serve the Crockpot Chicken Parmesan hot. Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor, if desired.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Parmesan

Serve this fantastic dish over a bed of pasta or alongside a hearty side salad. It also pairs well with crusty bread that you can use to scoop up every last bit of that scrumptious marinara sauce.

How to Store Crockpot Chicken Parmesan

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Chicken Parmesan

For added flavor, you can sauté some onions and bell peppers before adding them to the crockpot with the chicken.
If you prefer more heat, consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Try using fresh herbs instead of dried, as they can enhance the flavors even more.
Ensure enough marinara sauce coats the chicken to prevent it from drying out during the cooking process.

Delicious Variations

Italian Style: Add sliced mushrooms or spinach for an extra veggie boost.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in ricotta cheese for creaminess along with the Parmesan and mozzarella.
Herbed Twist: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for unique flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by an hour or so on low.

2. What if I don’t have cilantro?
Fresh basil or parsley can be a great substitute for garnishing if you’re out of fresh basil.

3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free marinara sauce.

4. Can I cook this dish overnight?
It’s best not to cook it overnight due to safety concerns with slow cookers. Stick to the recommended cooking times.

5. What is the best way to know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. This easy-to-follow recipe will have you savoring every bite while providing a delightful home-cooked flavor that feels like a restaurant experience. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Dive into the aromas and flavors and treat yourself to a comforting dish today!

Crockpot Chicken Parmesan

Author: mia-harper
Total Time: 370 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

Crockpot Chicken Parmesan combines rich flavors and a satisfying texture, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the crockpot, spread out evenly.
Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-covered.
Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheese over chicken.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, or frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 360 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 40g
Cholesterol: 80mg