Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan is a delicious and easy dish that brings a classic Italian flavor to your kitchen without the hassle of traditional preparation. This slow-cooked recipe allows for tender chicken breasts bathed in rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, you can set it and forget it!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
- Pasta or rice, for serving
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried basil, and oregano. Ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed on both sides of the chicken.
- Add to Crock Pot: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the Crock Pot.
- Pour Over Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully covered.
- Cook: Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is tender.
- Add Cheese: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan over the chicken. Cover and allow the cheese to melt.
- Serve: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, carefully remove the chicken and serve over cooked pasta or rice. Spoon extra marinara sauce from the pot over the top, and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan
1. Choose the Right Marinara Sauce
Selecting a delicious marinara sauce makes all the difference. Opt for a quality brand or even homemade sauce to enhance the dish’s flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Chicken breast is prone to drying out if overcooked. Ensure you check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
3. Customize with Vegetables
Feel free to add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the Crock Pot for a tasty veggie twist.
4. Make It Gluten-Free
For a gluten-free option, simply serve your chicken parmesan over zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are a few suggestions:
Pasta
Traditional spaghetti or penne pasta drizzled with olive oil and garlic provides a perfect base for the saucy chicken.
Garlic Bread
A slice of toasted garlic bread will help mop up any extra marinara sauce on your plate.
Salad
A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the chicken parmesan.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of your meal is essential. This dish is approximately 400 calories per serving. Here’s a breakdown:
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fats: 20g
Feel free to modify the ingredients according to your dietary needs.
Storing and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure it cools before sealing to maintain freshness.
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave for easy serving or on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or more marinara sauce to prevent drying out.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan offers a simple and satisfying option for dinner with minimal effort. Its rich flavors and tender chicken make it a family favorite that you can prepare any day of the week. With the ease of a slow cooker, you can prep in the morning and enjoy a comforting meal after a long day.
Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce Choose a delicious quality brand or homemade.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese For topping.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese For topping.
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
- Pasta or rice, for serving Pair with traditional spaghetti, penne, or even garlic bread.
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried basil, and oregano. Ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed on both sides of the chicken.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the Crock Pot.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully covered.
Cooking
- Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is tender.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan over the chicken. Cover and allow the cheese to melt.
Serving
- Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, carefully remove the chicken and serve over cooked pasta or rice. Spoon extra marinara sauce from the pot over the top, and garnish with fresh basil if desired.