Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of Italian cuisine with the ease of slow cooking. You can enjoy the comfort of perfectly cooked chicken bathed in marinara sauce and oozing with melted cheese, all prepared without a lot of fuss. This recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights, allowing you to set it and forget it while you go about your day. By the time you return to the kitchen, a warm, flavorful meal awaits you.
Why We Love This Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore this Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan recipe. First and foremost, it is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy households. Simply season the chicken, place it in the slow cooker, and let the Crock-Pot work its magic. Additionally, the rich flavors meld beautifully as the chicken simmers, ensuring a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. It’s also versatile, allowing you to serve it over pasta, rice, or even on its own. Plus, you’ll have leftovers that are just as tasty the next day.
Ingredients about Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
To create this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (low-sugar)
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan Directions
Making Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan is a straightforward process that involves just a few simple steps.
Start by prepping the chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Then, season both sides with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. This step is crucial as it ensures that your chicken is packed with flavor.
Next, layer the ingredients in the Crock-Pot. Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the marinara sauce over the top, ensuring the chicken is fully covered. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken moist during cooking.
Now it’s time to cook the chicken. Set your Crock-Pot to low and let it cook for about 4-6 hours. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 165°F, at which point the chicken will be fully cooked and tender.
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken. This allows the cheese to melt perfectly, creating that gooey texture that makes Chicken Parmesan so irresistible.
When your cooking time is up, carefully lift the chicken out of the Crock-Pot while allowing the sauce to drizzle over it. This not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also ensures each bite is full of flavor.
If you desire, add fresh basil on top for a pop of color and a touch of freshness right before serving. The combination of warm chicken, rich sauce, and melted cheese will create an impressive dish that will surely impress your family and friends.
How to Serve Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
When it comes to serving Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan, there are numerous delicious options. A popular choice is to serve the chicken over a bed of cooked pasta. The marinara sauce pairs wonderfully with spaghetti or penne, creating a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make.
Alternatively, you might like to serve your Chicken Parmesan with a side of steaming rice or even a fresh garden salad. For a lighter option, consider pairing it with steamed vegetables, which can balance out the richness of the dish. You can also serve it in a sandwich, using a crusty roll or garlic bread, for a delightful twist on a classic.
Whatever your choice, don’t forget to drizzle some extra marinara sauce over the top for added flavor. Garnishing with fresh basil leaves can also brighten up the presentation.
Expert Tips: Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
To make the most out of your Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan experience, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Choose high-quality marinara sauce for the best depth of flavor. A low-sugar option will help balance the richness of the cheese and chicken.
- Always check the chicken’s temperature to ensure it cooks properly. Using a meat thermometer is the surest way to confirm the internal temperature has reached 165°F.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to match your preferences. Add more Italian seasoning or even some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- For added texture, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the slow cooker along with the chicken. They will absorb some of the delicious sauce while cooking.
- Remember, you can substitute the chicken with turkey or even thinly sliced eggplant for a vegetarian option that still delivers on flavor.
How to Store Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is likely, considering how filling this dish is), storing them properly is key to maintaining freshness. Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely before storing. Use an airtight container to store the leftover Chicken Parmesan in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it for a longer time, consider freezing it. Place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat the frozen Chicken Parmesan, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the oven or microwave until warm.
Variation of Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
One of the best aspects of cooking is the ability to adjust recipes to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations you can try with your Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan:
- Add Vegetables: Consider adding sliced mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the slow cooker. These veggies will cook down and enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Cheese Changes: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, you can experiment with cheese. Try adding provolone, Fontina, or even a sprinkle of goat cheese for a unique twist.
- Herb Variations: If you want to change up the seasoning a bit, adding fresh herbs such as oregano, thyme, or even chopped parsley at the end of cooking can add a vibrant flavor profile.
- Breadcrumb Topping: For a crunchy texture, add a layer of seasoned breadcrumbs on top of the cheese about 10 minutes before serving. Toast them in the oven for a crispy finish.
- Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken for turkey cutlets, or for a meatless option, try using hearty vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms cut into slices.
FAQ
What is the best way to ensure my Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan turns out juicy and flavorful?
To ensure your chicken stays juicy, make sure to fully cover it with marinara sauce. Cooking it on low for several hours allows it to absorb all the flavors.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but it’s better to use thawed chicken for even cooking. If you must use frozen chicken, you should increase the cooking time and ensure it reaches the appropriate internal temperature.
What can I serve with Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan?
Pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables make excellent side dishes for Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan. You can also serve it in sandwiches for a delicious twist.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. Make sure to cook it within 2 days, and then just reheat before serving.
How do I know when my Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure proper cooking.
Crock-Pot Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (low-sugar) Choose high-quality for depth of flavor.
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
Cooking
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of the Crock-Pot. Pour the marinara sauce over the top.
- Set your Crock-Pot to low and let it cook for about 4-6 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken.
- Carefully lift the chicken out of the Crock-Pot and allow the sauce to drizzle over it.
- Add fresh basil on top for garnish.
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