Description
This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan recipe is a hassle-free, comforting Italian-inspired dinner featuring tender chicken breasts slow-cooked in rich marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, it delivers classic flavors with minimal effort while being family-friendly and great for meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 2 cups marinara sauce (quality jarred or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme blend)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for browning chicken)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to ensure each piece is infused with flavor from the start.
- (Optional) Brown the Chicken: If you have the time, quickly sear the chicken in a hot skillet with olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds extra depth and texture but isn’t necessary to keep it simple.
- Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot: Pour a thin layer of marinara sauce into the base of the crockpot, then arrange the chicken breasts on top. Spoon more marinara sauce evenly over each piece so they soak in all the tomato goodness.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The slow heat allows the flavors to meld wonderfully.
- Add Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the chicken. Close the lid and let the cheese melt into creamy perfection.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese is bubbly, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh aroma, then serve hot over your choice of pasta or sides.
Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the crockpot; space chicken pieces evenly to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.
- Use a thick marinara sauce to prevent watery results during slow cooking.
- Check chicken temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
- Lift the crockpot lid as little as possible during cooking to maintain consistent heat.
- Consider mixing mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a more complex cheese topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours low or 2-3 hours high
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce and cheese
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 110mg