This Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan is perfect for busy days. You just toss the chicken in the pot with sauce and cheese, and let it cook until tender and tasty!
What I love is how simple it is. Just set it and forget it! Pair it with pasta or a side salad, and you’ve got a meal that feels fancy without the fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless is the way to go for easy shredding after cooking. If you prefer, you could use chicken thighs for a juicier result or even a mix of both for more flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Using store-bought marinara makes this recipe quick and easy. If you want to make it healthier, you can use a low-sugar or homemade marinara for a fresher taste.
Italian Seasoning: This is a blend of dried herbs like oregano and basil. If you don’t have it, mix together equal parts dried basil, oregano, and thyme for a similar flavor profile.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is classic for this dish, but you could also use provolone or a dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant. The Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor, but nutritional yeast can serve as a substitute for a vegan option.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Tender and Juicy?
The key to tender chicken in this crock-pot recipe is to cook it low and slow. Here are some tips:
- It’s best to cook on low setting for a longer time (4 to 6 hours) for the most tender results.
- Don’t rush the cooking—chicken needs time to absorb the marinara flavors.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature (165°F) before serving to ensure it’s fully cooked.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with perfectly juicy chicken every time!
Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep, followed by 4 to 6 hours of cooking time on low (or 2 to 3 hours on high) in the crock-pot. Don’t forget about the additional 10 to 15 minutes for the cheese to melt! In total, you’re looking at around 4 hours and 15 minutes to 6 hours and 15 minutes from start to table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season them with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Just sprinkle it all over, making sure each piece is nicely coated.
2. Prepare the Crock-Pot:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into your crock-pot. It’s okay if they overlap a little, they will shrink as they cook!
3. Add the Marinara Sauce:
Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken. Make sure each piece is covered. This will keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
4. Cook It Slowly:
Cover the crock-pot with its lid. Set it to cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Cheese Time:
When you’re about 15 minutes away from serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the chicken. Yum!
6. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the crock-pot again and cook on high for another 10 to 15 minutes. This will melt the cheese to perfection!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is bubbly, if you’d like, sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for a touch of color and flavor. Serve hot over cooked pasta or with a side of crusty bread for a delicious meal!
And there you have it—an easy and satisfying meal that’s full of flavor! Enjoy your Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! However, it may take a bit longer to cook. Cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
What If I Don’t Have Marinara Sauce?
No worries! You can substitute with any tomato-based sauce, such as spaghetti sauce, pizza sauce, or even homemade crushed tomatoes. Just add some Italian herbs to enhance the flavors!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just pop it into the crock-pot and start cooking. It’s a great meal prep option!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove. The chicken may be even more flavorful after sitting in the sauce for a day!
