This Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan is a stress-free, flavorful twist on the classic Italian dish. The tender chicken breasts are coated in marinara, topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan, and served over pasta or alongside roasted veggies. Perfect for busy days, it’s an easy, family-friendly recipe that everyone will love.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Sear for Flavor: Lightly brown the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker to enhance flavor and texture.
- Choose Quality Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan and high-quality mozzarella for the best melt and taste.
- Sauce Matters: Opt for a marinara sauce you love; it’s the backbone of this dish.
- Timing Is Key: Avoid overcooking to ensure the chicken stays juicy. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Layer Wisely: Add cheese towards the end to prevent over-melting or burning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with this recipe because it’s an effortless way to enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home. The slow cooker does all the work, letting you focus on your day while the house fills with the aroma of simmering marinara and herbs. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish combines simplicity, convenience, and irresistible flavors.
Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan
Tender chicken in marinara, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan, slow-cooked to perfection for an easy, comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Sear (Optional): Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil, and lightly brown the chicken for 2 minutes per side.
- Layer in Slow Cooker: Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the chicken, then top with the remaining sauce and sprinkle Italian seasoning.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Add Cheese: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the chicken. Cover and let it melt.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve over pasta, zoodles, or with crusty bread.
Notes
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F.
- For a crispy texture, broil the cheese-topped chicken for 2 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 387Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 129mgSodium 1113mgCarbohydrates 14gFiber 3gSugar 7gProtein 48g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredient Notes
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, but chicken thighs work well too for added richness.
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought brand or homemade for a personalized touch. A tomato basil or garlic marinara adds extra depth.
- Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella and Parmesan create the gooey, cheesy topping that defines this dish. Pre-shredded varieties may contain anti-caking agents and won’t melt as smoothly.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning blend perfectly to enhance the flavor of the chicken and sauce.
- Breadcrumbs (Optional): For a crispy topping, sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs over the cheese before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs or even turkey cutlets for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them altogether for a gluten-free option.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with eggplant slices for a hearty, vegetarian alternative.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara for a kick of heat.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with provolone, fontina, or asiago alongside mozzarella for a gourmet touch.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken (without pasta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble ingredients in the slow cooker liner the night before, refrigerate, and start cooking in the morning.
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