This Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan is a total winner! Juicy chicken breasts cook slowly in tasty marinara sauce, topped with gooey cheese. Yum!
I love that I can just set it and forget it. Serve it over pasta or on a bun, and dinner is ready! Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that makes the house smell amazing? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best here for their tenderness. If you want a different protein, pork chops or even eggplant for a vegetarian option are great substitutes.
Marinara Sauce: I like to use store-bought for convenience, but homemade marinara adds a personal touch. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use a tomato basil sauce.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that gooey texture, while Parmesan adds a nice salty crunch. Don’t have them? Use other melty cheeses like provolone or a blend of cheeses instead.
Pasta: Rotini or spaghetti are good choices here. Zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta can also do the trick for a lighter or gluten-free meal.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy and Delicious?
The key to juicy chicken in a Crock-Pot is cooking it low and slow. Here’s how to do it right:
- Season the chicken well. This adds flavor throughout.
- Use enough marinara sauce to keep the chicken moist as it cooks.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safe eating.
Letting the chicken sit in the sauce after cooking for a bit helps lock in those flavors, so resist the urge to serve immediately!
Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil, for garnish
- 8 ounces rotini or spaghetti pasta (optional, for serving)
- Olive oil or cooking spray, for greasing crock-pot
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan takes about 10 minutes of prep time. Then, you’ll cook it on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. So, grab a few minutes to prep, and the crock-pot does the rest. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This will give your chicken lots of flavor!
2. Prepare the Crock-Pot:
Next, take your crock-pot and lightly grease the inside with olive oil or cooking spray. This will help keep the chicken from sticking.
3. Add the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the crock-pot in a single layer, so they cook evenly.
4. Pour on the Sauce:
Now, pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken breasts. Make sure they’re well-covered with sauce; this keeps them moist and tasty!
5. Cook It Slow:
Cover the crock-pot and set it to low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and fully cooked.
6. Add the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to eat, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken.
7. Let the Cheese Melt:
Cover it again and let the cheese melt for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is gooey and delicious!
8. Prepare Your Pasta:
If you’re serving the chicken over pasta, now is the time to cook it according to the package directions. Drain well once it’s ready.
9. Serve It Up:
To serve, place the chicken parmesan over the cooked pasta and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for that extra pop of flavor and color.
10. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your delicious homemade Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan! It’s a fulfilling meal that everyone will love!
FAQ for Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Cook on high for about 4-5 hours instead of 2-3. Just make sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What If I Don’t Have Marinara Sauce?
No problem! You can substitute it with any tomato sauce, tomato basil sauce, or even a homemade tomato sauce using canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Just make sure you use something flavorful!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in the crock-pot the night before and store it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, just set the crock-pot to cook. The flavors will be even better when allowed to sit!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Enjoy it over fresh pasta or a salad for a quick meal!