Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is an easy and delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings!
This dish has become a staple in our household, not only for its flavor but also for its convenience. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the chicken to become tender and infused with the rich flavors of tomato and cheese.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Tender, juicy chicken simmered to perfection
- Rich marinara sauce with a cheesy topping
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping
A Family Favorite for Every Occasion
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is designed to fit seamlessly into your busy life. Whether you're juggling work, school, or family commitments, this dish provides a satisfying meal without the fuss. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, when in reality, it takes just a few minutes of prep!
Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe also shines during family gatherings and potlucks. The ease of preparation means you can focus on spending quality time with loved ones rather than slaving away in the kitchen. Just set it and forget it, and let the slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy your day.
Healthier Comfort Food
Chicken Parmesan is a beloved comfort food, but it can often be heavy and calorie-laden. This crockpot version keeps it light while still delivering on taste. By using skinless chicken breasts and controlling the amount of cheese, you can enjoy a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies your cravings without derailing your health goals.
Additionally, the use of marinara sauce adds a nutritious boost, packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Opt for a low-sugar or homemade marinara to further enhance the health factor. Serve it over whole-grain pasta or alongside a fresh salad to create a balanced meal that everyone will love.
Versatile Serving Suggestions
One of the best aspects of this Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is its versatility. While it pairs beautifully with traditional spaghetti, feel free to get creative! Serve it over zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option, or even on a bed of quinoa for added protein. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to cater to various dietary preferences.
For a complete meal, consider adding steamed vegetables or a simple side salad. The rich flavors of the chicken and sauce complement a variety of sides, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience that appeals to everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Chicken Parmesan Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Make sure to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Spray the inside of the crockpot with cooking spray or lightly coat it with olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Add Marinara Sauce
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the crockpot and pour marinara sauce over the top, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Add Cheese
In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Cover and let it melt.
Serve
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, serve the chicken hot over cooked pasta or with a side of garlic bread.
Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Chicken Parmesan!
Tips for Success
To ensure your chicken comes out perfectly tender, it's essential not to overcook it. The low and slow method of the crockpot is forgiving, but keeping an eye on the cooking time will help maintain the chicken's juiciness. If you have a larger or smaller chicken breast, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the Italian seasoning and a splash of olive oil for a few hours before cooking. This simple step can infuse the meat with additional taste, making your Chicken Parmesan even more delightful.
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This Chicken Parmesan stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken. Portion it out in freezer-safe containers, and it will keep for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat. This makes for a quick and convenient meal option on busy days.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just extend the cooking time by an hour.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
→ What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?
This dish pairs well with pasta, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
→ Can I use other cheeses?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheeses, such as provolone or fontina.
Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is an easy and delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings!
Created by: Maya Richardson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Chicken Parmesan Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil
How-To Steps
Spray the inside of the crockpot with cooking spray or lightly coat it with olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the crockpot and pour marinara sauce over the top, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Cover and let it melt.
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, serve the chicken hot over cooked pasta or with a side of garlic bread.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 680mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 40g