If you’re looking for a dish that’s both simple and absolutely delicious, let me introduce you to my *crockpot chicken parmesan*! This recipe is a lifesaver on those busy days when you want a comforting meal without the fuss. Just toss everything in your crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Seriously, it’s as easy as that!

I remember one family gathering where I made this dish, and it was a total crowd-pleaser. My cousin, who claims to be a “pasta snob,” went back for seconds (and thirds!). The aroma wafting through the house was so inviting, and everyone gathered in the kitchen, eager for a taste. Trust me, this *crockpot chicken parmesan* will quickly become a favorite in your home, too!

Ingredients List

Alright, let’s gather everything you’ll need for this mouthwatering *crockpot chicken parmesan*! Here’s the list to make it super straightforward:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz) – go for your favorite brand!
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – the gooier, the better!
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds that rich, savory kick
1 teaspoon garlic powder – because garlic is life!
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a little blend of magic
Salt and pepper to taste – don’t forget to season generously!

These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not just tasty but also super comforting. Trust me, you’ll love the way they meld in the crockpot!

How to Prepare Instructions

Let’s dive into the magic of making this *crockpot chicken parmesan*! Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how effortless it is. Just follow these simple steps:

First off, season those chicken breasts! Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This is where the flavor starts, so don’t skimp!
Next, place the seasoned chicken in your crockpot. It’s like a cozy bed for your chicken!
Now, pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, making sure to cover it completely. This will keep the chicken juicy and flavorful as it cooks.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or if you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high for 3-4 hours. Just remember, the longer, the better for those flavors to really develop!
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle that luscious mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Oh, the cheese! Cover it back up and let it cook until the cheese is all melty and gooey.
Finally, serve it up with some pasta or all on its own, and enjoy the heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen!

That’s it! Seriously, you just let the crockpot do all the hard work while you sit back and relax. How easy is that?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick prep time: You can whip this up in just 10 minutes! Toss everything in the crockpot and you’re done.
Minimal cleanup: With just one pot to clean, you’ll love how easy it is to enjoy your meal without the hassle of multiple dishes.
Delicious flavor: The combination of juicy chicken, rich marinara, and gooey cheese creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
Family-friendly meal: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Healthy and gluten-free: Packed with protein and gluten-free, it’s a wholesome option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Honestly, every bite of this *crockpot chicken parmesan* is like a warm hug, and I can’t wait for you to experience it yourself!

Tips for Success

Alright, my fellow kitchen adventurer, here are some of my top tips for making sure your *crockpot chicken parmesan* turns out absolutely perfect every time!

Season generously: Don’t be shy with the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This is your chance to infuse flavor right into the chicken, so let those seasonings shine!
Cooking time is key: If you can, opt for the low setting. Cooking on low for 6-7 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your chicken super tender. But if you’re in a rush, the high setting works too—just keep an eye on it!
Quality ingredients matter: Use a good-quality marinara sauce that you love. It really makes a difference in the final flavor! And fresh mozzarella is a game changer if you can get your hands on it.
Herbs for freshness: Try adding in some fresh basil or oregano towards the end of cooking. It brightens up the dish and adds a lovely fresh element that’s hard to beat!
Don’t rush the cheese: When it’s time to sprinkle on that mozzarella and Parmesan, make sure to cover the crockpot again so it melts perfectly. You want that gooey, cheesy goodness to be just right!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make a *crockpot chicken parmesan* that will impress everyone at your dinner table. Happy cooking!

Variations

Now, let’s get a little creative with this *crockpot chicken parmesan*! There are so many fun ways to switch things up and make this dish your own. Here are some of my favorite variations:

Add veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach, sliced mushrooms, or even bell peppers right before you pour in the marinara sauce. They’ll add a beautiful color and extra nutrients to your meal!
Cheese swap: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, you could try using provolone, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a little kick. Get adventurous with your cheese choices!
Change the sauce: If you’re feeling bold, switch up the marinara for a creamy Alfredo sauce or a zesty pesto. Each option brings a whole new flavor profile to the table!
Serving options: Instead of serving this dish over pasta, try it on a bed of sautéed zucchini noodles or alongside some crusty garlic bread. It’s a delightful twist that’ll keep things interesting!
Herb infusion: Experiment with different herbs! Adding fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish to a new level. Just a little sprinkle can make a big difference!

These variations not only keep your meals exciting but also allow you to tailor the dish to your family’s tastes. So, don’t be afraid to mix it up and make this *crockpot chicken parmesan* truly yours!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this incredible *crockpot chicken parmesan* and now you’ve got some delicious leftovers—lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat them so you can enjoy that flavor all over again.

First things first, let your chicken cool down a bit before you store it. Then, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. Don’t forget to include some of that marinara sauce to keep everything nice and moist! You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or bag, and it should last for about 2-3 months.

When it’s time to reheat, you’ve got a couple of options. If you’re going for the microwave, just pop it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out, and heat it up in short intervals, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. But if you want to keep that lovely texture, I recommend reheating it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and warm it for about 20-25 minutes. This way, it stays juicy and delicious!

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor that comforting *crockpot chicken parmesan* for days to come. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information Section

Let’s talk numbers! Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of my *crockpot chicken parmesan*. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a pretty good idea:

Calories: 350
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 40g

This dish is not only hearty and satisfying but also packed with protein, making it a great option for a filling dinner. Enjoy every delicious bite, knowing you’re fueling your body with something wholesome!

FAQ Section

Got questions? Don’t worry, I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common questions I get about my *crockpot chicken parmesan*:

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but just keep in mind that you’ll need to increase the cooking time. It’s best to cook on low for about 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours to make sure they’re cooked through and tender.

What can I serve with this dish?

This *crockpot chicken parmesan* pairs beautifully with so many things! You can serve it over your favorite pasta, zoodles, or even alongside garlic bread for a hearty meal. A fresh side salad or steamed veggies also make great accompaniments!

How can I make it spicier?

If you’re looking to kick up the heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix or using a spicy marinara sauce. You could also slice up some jalapeños or add a bit of hot sauce to the dish before serving. Spice lovers will appreciate the extra kick!

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can definitely prepare it in advance! You can season the chicken and layer everything in the crockpot the night before, then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just make sure to pull it out ahead of time to get it closer to room temperature before cooking.

What are some good sides to pair with *crockpot chicken parmesan*?

Some delicious sides include a classic Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or even creamy mashed potatoes. If you want something light, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette works wonders. Just think of what you love and let that guide you!

Got more questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to help you make the best *crockpot chicken parmesan* ever!

Call to Action

Now that you’ve got all the delicious details for making this *crockpot chicken parmesan*, I’d love to hear from you! Have you tried this recipe? What did you think? Did it become a family favorite like it did for mine? Drop a comment below and share your experience! I’m always excited to hear your tips and tricks, too—maybe you’ve found a special twist that makes it even better!

If you enjoyed this recipe, why not give it a rating? Your feedback helps me create more tasty dishes for all of us to enjoy. Let’s keep the conversation going and inspire each other in the kitchen. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear from you!

Crockpot Chicken Parmesan: 5 Steps to Pure Comfort

Author: Juanita A. Smith
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A simple and delicious crockpot chicken parmesan recipe.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Place the chicken in the crockpot.
Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Cover and continue cooking until the cheese is melted.
Serve with pasta or on its own.

Notes

For extra flavor, add chopped basil or oregano.
Serve with garlic bread or a side salad.
You can use frozen chicken breasts, just increase cooking time.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Crockpot
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 40g
Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: crockpot chicken parmesan, easy chicken recipes, slow cooker chicken