Get ready to revolutionize your dinner routine with the most mouthwatering, hassle-free Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan that'll have your family begging for seconds! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts swimming in rich marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese - all achieved with minimal effort and maximum flavor. This Italian-inspired classic transforms the traditional chicken parm into a set-it-and-forget-it masterpiece that proves gourmet cooking can be incredibly simple.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, ensuring even coverage.
- Lightly spray the inside of the crock pot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the crock pot, making sure they are not overlapping.
- Pour the entire jar of marinara sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Cover the crock pot and set to low heat, cooking for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
- Cover and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and slightly bubbly.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve hot with pasta, garlic bread, or a side salad.
Tips
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning to ensure maximum flavor absorption and prevent excess moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked meat.
- For extra crispy cheese topping, consider briefly broiling the chicken in the oven for 2-3 minutes after slow cooking.
- Choose a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor profile - it makes a significant difference in the final dish.
- Avoid overcrowding the crock pot. Keep chicken breasts in a single layer for even cooking and consistent seasoning.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- For a low-carb option, serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 120mg
