Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan recipe is a simple and flavorful slow cooker dish that delivers tender, juicy chicken layered with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or family meals, it offers authentic Italian comfort food with minimal effort and cleanup.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (even-sized)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce and Cheese
- 2 to 3 cups marinara sauce (thick consistency recommended)
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley
- Prepare the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts evenly on all sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Drizzle olive oil and rub it in to coat the chicken for added richness and to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Sauce: Pour a layer of marinara sauce into the bottom of your crockpot, enough to create a moist base that will keep the chicken juicy during cooking.
- Add the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the sauce in a single layer, ensuring even spacing so each piece cooks thoroughly and absorbs the flavors.
- More Sauce and Cheese: Cover the chicken with the remaining marinara sauce, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top to create a cheesy crust as it cooks.
- Cook Low and Slow: Set the crockpot to low heat and cook for 4 to 6 hours. This slow cooking process allows the chicken to tenderize while melding the tomato sauce and cheese flavors perfectly.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top to add a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
Notes
- Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
- Use a thicker marinara sauce to prevent excess liquid in the crockpot.
- Add cheese during the last hour of cooking to avoid overcooked or rubbery texture.
- Keep the crockpot covered during cooking; removing the lid extends cook time.
- Optional: Brown chicken in a skillet before placing in the crockpot for added flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce and cheese
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: Crockpot Chicken Parmesan, Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan, Easy Italian Chicken, Comfort Food, One Pot Meal