Imagine coming home to the tantalizing aroma of Chicken Parmesan wafting through your house! This Chicken Parmesan crock pot recipe is the perfect solution for busy families looking for a comforting meal without the fuss. Just toss the ingredients into the crock pot, and let it do the work while you enjoy family time! 💖
If you’re looking for another delicious pasta dish, check out The Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in 30 Minutes, it’s a quick and delightful meal your entire family will enjoy!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- Effortless Cooking : Just toss the ingredients in the crock pot and let it do the work while you focus on family time.
- Flavorful and Comforting : Enjoy tender chicken soaked in rich marinara sauce, topped with melted cheese for a warm, comforting meal.
- One-Pot Wonder : Minimal cleanup means more time to relax and enjoy dinner with your loved ones.
- Kid-Friendly : This delicious dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.
- Meal Prep Friendly : Make ahead of time and enjoy leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Customizable : Easily adjust ingredients or add veggies to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan in the Crock Pot
- Prep the Chicken : Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot.
- Season and Sauce : Sprinkle the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Pour the marinara sauce on top, ensuring the chicken is well covered.
- Cook : Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Add Cheese : During the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Cover to let the cheese melt.
- Serve : Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve with cooked pasta or crusty bread for a complete meal!
Helpful Tips
- Don’t Overcook : Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Use Homemade Marinara : For a fresher taste, try using homemade marinara sauce!
- Add Veggies : Toss in some sliced bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
Looking to master the art of boiling chicken thighs? Check out Our detailed guide, which reveals the optimal cooking times and techniques for achieving perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.
Substitutions and Variations
- Chicken Thighs : Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier option.
- Dairy-Free : Use dairy-free cheese alternatives if you have dietary restrictions.
- Pasta Options : Serve with zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.
- Where to add it : In addition to being delicious, chicken is an excellent source of protein and can be incorporated into many healthy recipes.
Chicken Parmesan Crock Pot Recipe
Chicken Parmesan Crock Pot
This Chicken Parmesan Crock Pot recipe is a delightful and effortless way to enjoy a classic Italian dish. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have tender chicken breasts slow-cooked in savory marinara sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Served over pasta, rice, or polenta, this dish is perfect for family dinners. The combination of flavors and the ease of preparation make it a go-to meal for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving
Instructions
Prep the Chicken:
- Begin by taking 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and placing them flat at the bottom of your crock pot. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
Season and Sauce:
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper evenly over the chicken breasts. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
- Next, pour 2 cups of marinara sauce over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is generously covered. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the sauce evenly if necessary.
Cook:
- Cover the crock pot with its lid.
- Set your crock pot to low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is tender enough to shred easily.
Add Cheese:
- About 15 minutes before serving, carefully remove the lid.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and sauce.
- Replace the lid to allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
Serve:
- Once the cheese is melted and has a lovely golden color, carefully lift the chicken from the crock pot using tongs or a spatula.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve the Chicken Parmesan hot with your choice of cooked pasta, crusty bread, or even rice for a delicious and satisfying meal!
What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan Crock Pot
- Spaghetti : A classic pairing that complements the flavors of the dish.
- Garlic Bread : Perfect for soaking up the delicious marinara sauce.
- Fresh Green Salad : Adds a refreshing crunch to your meal.
- Rice : Serve over rice for a hearty and filling option.
- Polenta : A unique twist that adds a creamy texture to the meal.
Leftovers and Storage
- Storage : Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating : Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
- Flavor Boost : The flavors meld together overnight, making it even tastier the next day!
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or even rotini all work well for slow cooker pasta dishes. Adjust the cooking time slightly if using thinner pasta.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, or peas can be added during the last 30 minutes for a veggie boost.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!