Name: Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 300 min
Total time: 325 min
Ingredients: 25 ounces marinara sauce; 3-4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (depending on how many will fit in your slow cooker); 1.5 cups Italian seasoned Panko bread crumbs; 1 large egg; 0.5 cup milk; 1 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1 teaspoon pepper (to taste); 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano; 0.5 teaspoon dried basil; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (more if you prefer); 0.25 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 1 package spaghetti (for serving)

Introduction to Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan

Why choose Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan for your busy life?

If you’re often juggling work, social life, and errands, finding time to prepare a delicious dinner can feel like an uphill battle. Enter Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan, a game-changer for busy schedules. This dish offers the perfect blend of convenience and comfort food, making it a go-to option for any weeknight meal.

Imagine coming home after a long day to the tantalizing aroma of seasoned chicken simmering away in marinara sauce—it’s enough to make anyone’s day better. With just 25 minutes of prep and your trusty slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, you can spend your time on more important things, like unwinding or catching up with friends. Plus, the total cook time of around 5 hours means that you can set it and forget it, allowing for effortless meal planning.

Not only is Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan easy to prepare, but it's also a hit with the whole family. The crispy breaded chicken, smothered in rich marinara and gooey cheese, is bound to please even the pickiest eaters. And let’s not forget, serving it over spaghetti elevates the dish to pure comfort food heaven! Check out more tips on how to master slow-cooking techniques for delicious meals here.

Ingredients for Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan

When crafting the ultimate Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan, having the right ingredients on hand is essential for that rich and comforting flavor we all crave. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients

Marinara Sauce: A 25-ounce jar serves as a flavorful base.
Chicken Breasts: 3-4 boneless, skinless breasts, depending on your slow cooker size.
Panko Bread Crumbs: About 1 ½ cups, preferably Italian seasoned for that extra zest.
Egg: One large egg for binding the breadcrumbs.
Milk: ½ cup, helps to moisten the chicken.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil for that aromatic touch.
Cheese: 1 cup shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup shredded Parmesan, because cheese makes everything better!

Optional Ingredients

Vegetable Oil: Use 2 tablespoons for browning the chicken; you can substitute with olive oil for a richer flavor.
Pasta: Spaghetti works beautifully as a side, but feel free to get creative—zucchini noodles or whole grain pasta can add a wholesome twist!

With these ingredients at your disposal, you’ll be well on your way to making a delicious Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan that’s sure to impress. Want to spice things up? Consider adding red pepper flakes for a kick! Check out these cooking tips to elevate your recipe even further. Happy cooking!

Step-by-step preparation of Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan

Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan is a fantastic, low-effort dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few easy steps, you can create a flavorful meal that will impress your family or friends. Let's walk through the preparation together!

Spray and layer the crock pot

Start by prepping your slow cooker. Grab a 5-6 quart crock pot and coat the interior with nonstick cooking spray. This simple act prevents your chicken from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Next, pour in the entire jar of marinara sauce. Think of this as the cozy, flavorful base for your dish!

Prepare the egg and milk mixture

In one shallow bowl, whisk together one large egg and ½ cup of milk. A dash of salt and pepper will enhance the mixture's flavor, so don’t skimp! This step is crucial as it helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken, creating that crunchy texture we all crave.

Combine panko breadcrumbs and seasonings

In another shallow bowl, mix 1 ½ cups of Italian seasoned Panko bread crumbs with ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, oregano, and basil. These herbs add an aromatic touch to your Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan. If you're a fan of crispy textures, Panko is your best friend, as it gives the chicken a delightful crunch when cooked!

Brown the chicken

Before diving into the cooking process, heat two tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. It’s essential to get the skillet nice and hot so that you can brown the chicken breasts effectively. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture.

Once each piece is fully coated, add them to the skillet. Remember, patience is key here! Avoid flipping them too often; let one side get good and golden before turning. This will ensure the breading stays intact and crispy.

Transfer to the crock pot

After browning each piece of chicken—about 3–4 minutes per side—transfer them directly into the crock pot on top of the marinara sauce. It's like a cozy little chicken bed! Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 5-6 hours. Your target internal temperature for the chicken should reach 165°F.

Add cheese for the final touch

When you're nearing mealtime, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken. Allow it to cover for an additional 10–15 minutes to melt beautifully. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be impossible to resist!

And there you have it—your Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan is ready to be served over cooked spaghetti noodles for a delightful, heartwarming meal. Enjoy every savory bite! Don't forget to check out more recipes on Food Network for further culinary inspiration!

Variations on Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan with Spinach

Looking to add a nutritious twist to your Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan? Toss in some fresh spinach! This not only enhances the flavor but also packs in an extra punch of vitamins. Simply layer a handful of fresh spinach over the chicken before adding your marinara sauce. As it cooks, the spinach wilts down and blends beautifully with the sauce, providing a hearty, delicious addition to your meal.

Gluten-Free Chicken Parmesan

For those following a gluten-free diet, don’t worry—you can still enjoy this classic dish! Substitute regular Panko bread crumbs with a gluten-free version, or use crushed gluten-free crackers for that desired crunch. This way, you can savor every bite of your Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan without compromising on flavor or texture. Enjoy this delightful option with zucchini noodles or your favorite gluten-free pasta!

Cooking tips and notes for Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan

Perfect browning techniques

To achieve perfectly browned chicken in your Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan, start with a hot skillet. Dip each breast into the egg mixture, then coat it with your seasoned Panko. The secret? Allow each piece to brown undisturbed. Constant flipping can cause the breadcrumbs to slip—let that crust form! For a deeper dive into frying techniques, check out this guide.

Ensuring cheesy goodness

For that melty cheese perfection, add shredded mozzarella and Parmesan about 10-15 minutes before serving. Cover the slow cooker to trap the heat and let the cheese create a gooey topping. Feel free to add more cheese if you’re a cheese lover—who could resist? Pair this with a side of cooked spaghetti for a balanced meal. Enjoy your slow-cooked delight!

Serving suggestions for Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan

Ideal accompaniments for the dish

Pair your Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan with classic sides to elevate the meal. A fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that delicious marinara sauce. For a heartier option, consider serving it over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside roasted vegetables for an earthy flavor boost.

Creative serving ideas

Get a little playful when presenting your Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan. Serve it in a deep dish or as a sandwich for a fun twist. Layer the chicken, cheese, and marinara between crusty bread for a delightful lunch option. Another idea is to turn it into a comforting bowl by adding cooked quinoa or rice. The possibilities are endless—embrace your culinary creativity!

For more inspiration, check out this Food Network article on serving suggestions!

Time Breakdown for Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan

Preparation Time

Getting everything ready for your Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan takes about 25 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, preparing the chicken, and mixing the flavorful breading.

Cooking Time

Once you’ve prepped, your slow cooker does all the hard work! Simply set it to low and let it cook for 5 hours. This allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while soaking up all that delicious marinara sauce.

Total Time

In total, from prep to plate, you're looking at approximately 5 hours and 25 minutes for this fantastic dish! Perfect for busy weeknights, just set it and forget it. Want more tips? Check out Joy of Cooking for other easy slow cooker recipes!

Nutritional facts for Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan

When considering a delicious meal like Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan, it's essential to know its nutritional insights. Here's a quick glance at what you’re savoring:

Calories: 859 kcal per serving, making it a hearty choice.
Protein: Packed with chicken breast, it offers a satisfying 55g of protein, fueling your day.
Carbohydrates: With about 65g per serving, it's a perfect blend of energy-boosting carbs from the spaghetti and marinara sauce.

This meal is not just tasty; it's also nutritious. For a deeper dive into healthy eating, check out resources like the United States Department of Agriculture FoodData Central to explore more on food composition. Enjoy your meal without guilt!

FAQs about Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts for Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan. Just make sure to increase the cooking time by about an hour. This ensures they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F while still absorbing all that delicious marinara flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Just remember to separate the chicken and sauce before freezing to maintain the best texture. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.

What can I pair with this dish for a complete meal?

Pair your Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a delightful meal. You could also serve roasted vegetables or a steaming bowl of spaghetti, which complements the savory chicken beautifully. Don't forget a refreshing drink, such as sparkling water or iced tea, to balance the flavors! For more ideas, check out this meal pairing guide.

Conclusion on Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan

Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan is truly a game-changer for busy weeknights. With its effortless preparation and rich flavors, this recipe delivers comfort food that’s both satisfying and delicious. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this tasty twist on a classic favorite!