This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan is a tasty and comforting meal that cooks itself! Just toss in chicken, marinara sauce, and some cheese, and let the slow cooker do the magic.
There’s nothing like coming home to the delicious smell of chicken and cheese melting together. It’s like a warm hug after a long day! I love serving it over spaghetti—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook nicely in the slow cooker. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you can use chicken thighs, which add more flavor and moisture.
Marinara Sauce: Any good-quality marinara sauce will work well. If you’re short on time, jarred sauce is just fine. Alternatively, you can make your own quickly with canned tomatoes and spices!
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme. If you don’t have it, you can use individual herbs or Italian herbs from your spice rack.
Cheese: Mozzarella provides great melting quality, while Parmesan adds a nice nutty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try using plant-based cheeses, which can melt well too!
Pasta: This recipe pairs wonderfully with spaghetti, but feel free to try it with penne or whole wheat pasta for a different texture.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Comes Out Tender?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker needs some attention! Here’s how to make sure it’s moist and flavorful:
- Make sure to season the chicken well with salt, pepper, and spices before placing it in the slow cooker. This helps build flavor!
- Don’t open the lid while cooking; this lets heat escape and can affect cooking times.
- Keep an eye on the time. Cooking too long may dry it out, but within the suggested times, it should be perfectly tender and juicy.
- If you want to get a bit crispy, you can broil the chicken in the oven for a few minutes after cooking.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Cooked spaghetti or your choice of pasta, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken parmesan takes about 10 minutes to prep and then cooks for 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal waiting for you at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Sprinkle salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder over both sides of the chicken. This step adds a wonderful flavor to your chicken as it cooks!
2. Place Chicken in Slow Cooker:
Put the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Ensure they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
3. Add Marinara Sauce:
Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well-covered. This sauce will not only keep the chicken moist but will also infuse it with delicious flavor!
4. Set Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s fully cooked and tender enough to easily shred with a fork.
5. Add Cheese:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to eat, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Cover again and let it cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Finish and Serve:
Once the cheese is nice and melted, it’s time to plate up! Garnish your chicken with fresh basil or parsley if you like for a nice touch. Serve it hot over a bed of cooked spaghetti or pasta of your choice!
7. Enjoy!
Sit back, relax, and enjoy your homemade Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan! It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just ensure you increase the cooking time by about an hour on both low and high settings. However, for the best flavor and texture, we recommend thawing them in the fridge overnight before cooking.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want to kick up the heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or use a spicy marinara. Conversely, if you’re looking for a milder dish, you can omit the garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before and keep it in the fridge. In the morning, just pop the slow cooker on and set the timer. Just note that cooking times might vary a bit if you start with cold ingredients.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of marinara sauce to keep it moist!
