This Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan is a tasty way to enjoy a classic dish without much fuss. Juicy chicken breasts are simmered in marinara sauce and topped with gooey cheese.
It’s like a warm hug from Italian comfort food! I love coming home to the smell of this dish. Just serve it over pasta or with some crusty bread—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are preferred for this dish because they cook evenly. If you need a substitute, try skinless thighs; they add a little more flavor and moisture to the dish.
Marinara Sauce: You can use store-bought marinara for convenience. However, if you want to make your own, a simple mix of crushed tomatoes, garlic, onion, and herbs works wonders. Feel free to use a spicy version if you like some heat!
Cheeses: Mozzarella is traditional for chicken Parmesan, but you can mix it with provolone for added flavor. If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan cheese that melts well. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor to veg options!
Italian Seasoning: This is a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme. You can quickly mix your own if you don’t have it—just combine equal parts of dried oregano and basil plus a pinch of thyme.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Tender and Juicy?
The secret to juicy chicken in your crock-pot is to not rush the cooking process. Cooking on low is generally best for maximum tenderness:
- For best results, use low heat for 4-6 hours. This allows the chicken to cook slowly and soak up the flavors.
- If you must use high heat, keep it to 2-3 hours but check often to avoid overcooking.
- When it’s done, the chicken should easily shred with a fork; this means it’s perfectly cooked!
Final tip: Adding cheese during the last 15-20 minutes locks in moisture and gives a beautiful bubbly finish. Enjoy every bite!
Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked spaghetti or pasta, for serving
- Optional: ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed Italian-style crackers (if you want a crunchy topping)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil (if searing chicken before using the crock-pot)
Estimated Time:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 4-6 hours to cook on LOW or 2-3 hours on HIGH in the crock-pot. Just set it, forget it, and enjoy the amazing smell as it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
If you like, lightly season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This extra flavor will make the dish even tastier.
2. Sear the Chicken (Optional):
If you want your chicken to have a wonderful golden color and extra flavor, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step is optional but adds a great taste!
3. Prepare the Crock-Pot:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the crock-pot in a single layer. Make sure they fit comfortably.
4. Add the Sauce:
Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken, covering them well. This will keep the chicken moist and flavorful as it cooks.
5. Set to Cook:
Cover the crock-pot with its lid and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender when done.
6. Add the Cheeses:
About 15-20 minutes before you’re ready to eat, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken. If you’re using breadcrumbs for extra crunch, add them too!
7. Melt and Bubble:
Cover the crock-pot again and let it cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The delicious aroma will fill your kitchen!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the chicken over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta, and don’t forget to spoon additional marinara sauce over the top if you like!
Enjoy your hassle-free, comforting Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan!
FAQ for Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but ensure that they are fully thawed before cooking for even results. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Can I Substitute the Marinara Sauce?
Absolutely! If you don’t have marinara sauce, you can use any tomato-based sauce, such as spaghetti sauce or even pizza sauce. For a homemade version, blend crushed tomatoes with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or extra sauce if needed to maintain moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to cook, just set it in your crock-pot and let it do the work. The flavor might even develop even more overnight!
