This Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan is a cozy meal that’s perfect for busy days. Juicy chicken is smothered in marinara sauce and topped with melty cheese—yum!
Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it. I love to serve it over pasta for a satisfying dinner. Just add a side salad, and you’re all set! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook evenly and stay tender. If you’re looking for a change, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor, though they may require a bit more cooking time.
Marinara Sauce: Using store-bought marinara is a huge time-saver. However, feel free to use homemade sauce if you have a favorite recipe. You can even switch things up with Alfredo sauce for a creamy version!
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic for its melty texture, but you can also use provolone or even a mix of cheeses. For a stronger flavor, consider adding some smoked mozzarella. Just remember to keep an eye on your cheese—make sure it doesn’t burn while cooking.
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can mix dried oregano, basil, and thyme as a substitute. This dish is very forgiving, so adjust to your taste!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Stays Moist and Flavorsome?
The first step is to lightly sear the chicken before adding it to the crock-pot. This helps lock in flavor, but you can skip this if you’re short on time. Always season well with salt and pepper; it makes a big difference!
- Spraying your crock-pot with olive oil helps the chicken not stick, making cleanup easier.
- Keep an eye on cooking time—overcooked chicken can become dry. Use a food thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F.
- Adding cheese towards the end ensures it melts nicely without overcooking.
Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta, for serving
- Olive oil or cooking spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal comes together in about 15 minutes of prep time. Depending on your cooking setting, you’ll need to let it cook in the crock-pot for 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high. So, total time includes prep and cooking—it’s perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crock-Pot:
Start by lightly spraying the inside of the crock-pot with olive oil or cooking spray. This helps keep everything from sticking and makes for an easier cleanup!
2. Season the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This will enhance their flavor while cooking.
3. Place Chicken in the Crock-Pot:
Now, lay the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the crock-pot. This helps them cook evenly!
4. Add the Marinara Sauce:
Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly covered. This will keep the chicken moist and add delicious flavor as it cooks.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crock-pot and let it cook. You can choose to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken is done when it’s fully cooked and tender. A quick tip: use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F!
6. Add Cheese:
About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Cover the crock-pot again and let the cheese melt, creating a deliciously gooey topping.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, you can garnish the dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor and color. Serve the chicken parmesan over your cooked pasta, and don’t forget to spoon some extra sauce from the crock-pot over the top. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking. If you have frozen chicken, please thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for quicker defrosting.
Can I Make This Chicken Parmesan Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before, including placing the seasoned chicken in the crock-pot. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to start cooking. Add an extra 30 minutes on the cooking time if the chicken is chilled.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of marinara sauce if needed to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This chicken parmesan is best served over spaghetti or your favorite pasta. If you want to keep it lighter, you can pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Garlic bread is also a great addition!
