Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish that simplifies the cooking process and maximizes flavor. Imagine a warm, hearty meal that cooks itself while you go about your day. With tender chicken breasts bathing in rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese, this recipe has all the comforting elements you crave for dinner. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why We Love This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Recipe
This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan recipe stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can put together a delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone. Secondly, the slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying dish. The chicken comes out tender and juicy, while the layers of cheese create a comforting, creamy texture that simply melts in your mouth. Plus, you can customize the dish according to your preferences by adjusting the seasoning or pairing it with your favorite pasta.
Ingredients about Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
List of ingredients with measurements
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 jar marinara sauce (about 24 ounces)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked pasta (for serving)
- Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Directions
Creating your own delicious Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is straightforward. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This step adds a burst of flavor to your chicken, ensuring that every bite is savory and satisfying. Once seasoned, place the chicken breasts in the base of your crockpot, forming a single layer for even cooking.
Next, pour the jar of marinara sauce over the chicken, covering it well. The sauce not only serves to flavor the chicken but also keeps it moist throughout the cooking process. After setting everything up, cover the crockpot with its lid, and select your cooking time. If you have the luxury of time, cook on low for about 6-7 hours. This low-and-slow method results in incredibly tender chicken that you can easily shred with a fork. Alternatively, if you’re pressed for time, select the high setting and cook for 3-4 hours.
About 30 minutes before the cooking time concludes, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of your chicken. This step allows the cheese to melt beautifully, creating a creamy topping that complements the marinara sauce perfectly. Once the timer goes off, you’ll know your meal is ready. The chicken should be fully cooked and the cheese golden and bubbly.
Serving your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is simple. Take the cooked chicken out of the crockpot and place it over plates of your favorite cooked pasta, like spaghetti or fettuccine. You can ladle some more marinara sauce over the top for an extra touch. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil if you have some handy – it adds a lovely pop of color and flavor!
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
Serving Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is as satisfying as making it. Upon completion, you can serve your delightful dish over a bed of freshly cooked pasta. The choice of pasta can vary based on your preference. Consider classic spaghetti for an authentic Italian feel, or opt for a thicker pasta like penne or rigatoni if you prefer something hearty.
For presentation, place a generous portion of pasta on the plate, then gently lay the cooked chicken on top. Drizzle some of the marinara sauce from the crockpot over the chicken and pasta for a beautiful food display. If you want to elevate the dish, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over everything. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish more visually appealing. Finally, if you enjoy fresh flavors, add some chopped basil as a garnish, providing a burst of color and aroma.
Make sure to have a side salad or garlic bread on hand to complete your meal. The freshness of a salad or the warmth of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the chicken Parmesan and pasta. Seeing your family or guests enjoy each bite will be the cherry on top of your culinary efforts!
Expert Tips: Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
To ensure your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan turns out perfectly, consider these expert tips. First, choose good quality marinara sauce, as it significantly impacts the flavor of your dish. If you have the time, you can make your own sauce for an even fresher taste.
Pay attention to the thickness of your chicken breasts. For a more uniform cooking time, pound the chicken to an even thickness. This helps prevent dry edges and ensures that everything cooks through at the same pace. When seasoning, don’t shy away from adjusting the amount of Italian seasoning, salt, or pepper based on your taste preferences.
If you love a bit of texture, consider adding veggies to your crockpot. Bell peppers or zucchini, for example, can add color, nutrition, and flavor. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them alongside the chicken.
Lastly, always check the doneness of your chicken with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. If you find your chicken isn’t quite there, you can simply cover the crockpot and allow it to cook for a bit longer.
How to Store Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
If you find yourself with leftovers – which is often the case with such a delicious meal – storing Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is straightforward. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. Proper cooling helps to avoid condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
The stored chicken can last in the refrigerator for up to four days. When ready to reheat, you can do so in the microwave or place it in a covered skillet over low heat on your stove. Just make sure to add a splash of water or sauce to keep the moisture intact while reheating.
If you want to keep the dish for an extended period, you can also freeze it. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container, separating portions for easier thawing later. Properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to three months.
When you are ready to enjoy your frozen leftovers, transfer them to the fridge to thaw overnight before reheating.
Variation of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
Exploring variations of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan can be a fun adventure in the kitchen. Here are a few ideas that might excite your taste buds!
To add more depth of flavor, consider adding different herbs or spices beyond Italian seasoning. Fresh garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes can provide a lovely kick, while adding fresh spinach during the last hour of cooking can infuse a healthy green element.
For a creamier version, think about mixing in some cream cheese or ricotta into the marinara sauce before pouring it over the chicken. This creates a richer sauce that pairs perfectly with the melted cheeses on top.
If you prefer a lighter version, you can try substituting the chicken breasts with turkey cutlets, which still provide substantial flavor without the extra calories.
Finally, don’t forget about cheese! Experiment with different types of cheese such as provolone or a sharp cheddar for unique flavor profiles. Each variation can make your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan feel like a whole new dish every time you prepare it!
FAQ
What is Crockpot Chicken Parmesan?
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is a slow-cooked dish featuring seasoned chicken breasts immersed in marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s similar to traditional chicken Parmesan but cooked in a crockpot for convenience and enhanced flavors.
How long does it take to make Crockpot Chicken Parmesan?
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan takes about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in a crockpot. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken becomes tender and flavorful.
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
While it’s not recommended to cook frozen chicken directly in a crockpot due to safety concerns, you can thaw the chicken beforehand. Always ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What should I serve with Crockpot Chicken Parmesan?
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan is great served over cooked pasta. Consider adding a side salad or garlic bread to complement your meal and enhance the dining experience.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze portions in freezer-safe containers, where they’ll remain good for about three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
By following this guide, your experience with Crockpot Chicken Parmesan will be satisfying from start to finish. Enjoy the cooking, the delicious aroma wafting through your home, and the joyous moment of gathering around a table filled with comfort food!
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 24 ounces jar marinara sauce About 1 jar
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
- Cooked pasta For serving
- Fresh basil For garnish, optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the base of your crockpot in a single layer.
Cooking
- Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, covering it completely.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and select cooking time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
- About 30 minutes before cooking time is done, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
- Once cooking time is complete, check if the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted.
Serving
- Serve the cooked chicken over plates of your favorite cooked pasta.
- Ladle some marinara sauce over the chicken and pasta.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
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