Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is a beloved recipe for busy weeknights when you crave a hearty Italian meal but don’t have the time to spend in the kitchen. This dish combines succulent chicken breasts with rich marinara sauce and melty cheeses, all cooked to perfection in your crockpot. It’s a hands-off approach that delivers big flavors without the hassle, making it a go-to recipe for families and gatherings alike.
Why We Love This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Recipe
There’s something incredibly satisfying about coming home to the aroma of dinner ready and waiting for you. This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan recipe captures the essence of comfort food with minimal effort. Not only does it save you time, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully as the chicken cooks slowly and tenderly. The combination of juicy chicken, savory marinara, and gooey cheeses culminates in a dish that’s pure joy to serve and share. Additionally, this recipe is versatile and can be paired with various sides, ensuring it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
When you decide to make Crockpot Chicken Parmesan, gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 jar marinara sauce (about 24 ounces)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked pasta (for serving)
- Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)
These ingredients blend together to create a delicious, cheesy meal that your entire family will love.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
Making Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is straightforward and requires just a few steps to create this amazing dish. Here’s how to get started:
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning. Make sure to coat them evenly for the best flavor.
- Layer in the Crockpot: Take your seasoned chicken breasts and place them in the base of your crockpot. You want them to fit snugly so that they cook evenly.
- Add the Marinara Sauce: Open the jar of marinara sauce, then pour it generously over the chicken breasts. Ensure that the chicken is covered well with the sauce—this will keep the meat moist and add incredible flavor.
- Cook in the Crockpot: Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the chicken to become tender and absorb the wonderful flavors of the sauce.
- Cheesy Finish: About 30 minutes before your cooking time is up, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken. Cover the crockpot again and let it finish cooking. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a deliciously gooey topping.
- Serve It Up: When the cooking time is completed, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. Serve it on a bed of cooked pasta, allowing the sauce to coat each piece. For a fresh touch, garnish with some chopped basil if desired.
With these simple steps, you’ll create a delightful meal that showcases the heartiness of chicken and the richness of Italian flavors.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
Serving Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is all about presentation and pairing. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:
- On a Bed of Pasta: Serve your chicken on top of a generous portion of spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne pasta. The pasta will soak up the marinara sauce, complementing the chicken perfectly.
- With Garlic Bread: Enhance your meal with slices of warm, buttery garlic bread. This crunchy side is perfect for mopping up extra sauce on your plate.
- Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and cheese. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for an added zest.
- Vegetable Sides: Consider serving with steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or green beans. These sides not only add color to your plate but also provide a healthy balance.
- Garnishes: Finish each plate with a sprinkling of fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who love a bit of heat. This will elevate the dish’s presentation and flavor profile.
Enjoying Crockpot Chicken Parmesan can be a cozy family dinner or a delightful meal for entertaining friends. You’ll find that it’s not just tasty; it’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table.
Expert Tips: Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
To ensure your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan turns out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips:
- Use Quality Marinara Sauce: The flavor of your dish heavily relies on the marinara sauce you choose. Opt for a high-quality jarred sauce or even make your own for the freshest taste.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: If possible, monitor your crockpot to prevent the chicken from overcooking, especially if you’re using the high setting. Overcooked chicken can become dry, so aim for tender and juicy meat.
- Add Vegetables for Nutrition: Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the crockpot for a nutrition boost. These can be added in the last few hours of cooking for a healthy twist.
- Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, you can try adding provolone or even a sprinkle of goat cheese for a unique flavor twist.
- Make It Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble everything the night before, refrigerate it, and just turn on the crockpot in the morning for an effortless dinner.
Following these tips will help you create a dish that not only tastes good but also impresses anyone you share it with.
How to Store Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
If you have leftovers or want to make this dish ahead of time, here’s how to store your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan:
- Cool Down: Allow the chicken and sauce to cool before transferring to storage containers. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the food soggy.
- Airtight Containers: Store the chicken in airtight containers, separating the sauce if you prefer. This will help maintain freshness and prevent odors from affecting the dish.
- Refrigeration: You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to label the containers with the date for your reference.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and sauce. Just remember to use freezer-safe containers or bags. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken back in a crockpot or a saucepan on low heat, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent drying out. Heat until warmed through.
With these storage strategies, you can enjoy your delicious Crockpot Chicken Parmesan at a later time without sacrificing taste or quality.
Variation of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
One of the best things about Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some variations to consider:
- Healthier Version: Use skinless, boneless turkey breasts instead of chicken for a lighter alternative. You can also opt for whole grain or vegetable pasta for a healthy side.
- Spicy Kick: Add a bit of heat by incorporating crushed red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce. For extra flavor, consider using spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with eggplant slices. Layer the eggplant with marinara and cheese just like you would with chicken, creating a delightful eggplant Parmesan.
- Cheesy Variations: Instead of traditional Parmesan and mozzarella, switch it up by using a three-cheese blend or add ricotta for creaminess.
- Italian Inspired: For an Italian twist, include artichokes or sun-dried tomatoes in the crockpot. These ingredients pair well with the chicken and marinara, creating a more complex and flavorful dish.
These variations can breathe new life into your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan while still keeping it delicious and satisfying, appealing to a wide range of tastes.
FAQ
What is Crockpot Chicken Parmesan?
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is a slow-cooked dish made with seasoned chicken breasts covered in marinara sauce and topped with cheese, served over pasta. It’s a great comfort meal that’s simple to prepare.
How long do I cook Crockpot Chicken Parmesan?
You can cook Crockpot Chicken Parmesan on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your preference and the time you have available.
Can I make Crockpot Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the ingredients the night before and cook it in the crockpot during the day. You can also make it ahead and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.
How do I freeze Crockpot Chicken Parmesan?
Allow the dish to cool, then store it in airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I serve with Crockpot Chicken Parmesan?
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan pairs well with pasta, garlic bread, and a fresh garden salad. You can also add steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.
With this guide, you’re all set to create a delightful Crockpot Chicken Parmesan that not only satisfies but also brings everyone together around the table. Enjoy exploring this heartwarming dish!
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 24 ounces jar marinara sauce about 1 jar
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
For Serving
- Cooked pasta for serving
- Fresh basil for garnish, optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, coating them evenly.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the base of the crockpot, ensuring they fit snugly.
- Pour the marinara sauce generously over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well covered.
Cooking
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Cover again to let the cheese melt.
Serving
- Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and serve it on a bed of cooked pasta.
- Garnish with chopped basil, if desired.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!