Name: Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless & skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons oil (olive oil recommended); 24 ounces your favorite red pasta sauce; 15 ounces tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (additional for sprinkling); Fresh parsley and basil for garnish; 1 pound spaghetti noodles, cooked according to package directions

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There is something utterly comforting about a warm, cheesy, and saucy Italian classic, and the Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Recipe brings that nostalgic magic to your table with a wonderfully easy, hands-off approach. Imagine tender chicken breasts with a crispy breadcrumb coating gently simmered in rich marinara sauce, topped with melty mozzarella, all cooked low and slow to perfection. This dish is pure heartwarming goodness that transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleaser perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or special occasions without the fuss of standing over the stove for hours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a collection of cooking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center back, there is a clear glass bowl holding three raw, pale pink pieces of chicken. To the right of the chicken, some uncooked yellow spaghetti strands lie vertically. In front of the chicken, a white bowl filled with thick red marinara sauce with swirled texture is placed. Surrounding the sauce bowl are small white dishes containing grated cheese, boiled minced garlic, a mixture of salt and pepper, dried herbs, and a yellowish fine breadcrumb mixture. Two white eggs rest near the spaghetti. Additionally, a metal measuring cup filled with white flour and a glass jar with red sauce are positioned on the left side. The overall layout is clean and organized, showing all ingredients separately and clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create a deliciously textured and flavorful meal. Each element plays a crucial role, from the crispy coating on the chicken to the robust tomato sauce and the gooey cheese topping.

4 boneless & skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that becomes tender and juicy after slow cooking.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and seasoning.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the dish.
1 cup all-purpose flour: For dredging the chicken to help the coating stick and crisp up.
2 large eggs beaten: Acts as a binding agent for the breadcrumb coating.
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs: Brings a herby crunch and texture to the crust.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella.
2 tablespoons oil: Used to fry the chicken briefly for a golden crust.
24 ounces your favorite red pasta sauce: Forms the rich and flavorful base of the slow-cooked sauce.
15 ounces tomato sauce: Adds volume and smooth tomato goodness.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the sauce with classic Mediterranean herbs for warmth.
2 cloves garlic minced: Brings aromatic depth and a hint of boldness.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts lusciously to form the cheesy topping everyone loves.
1 pound spaghetti noodles cooked to package directions: The perfect pasta base for serving.
Fresh parsley and basil for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts thoroughly with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step ensures every bite is flavorful from the inside out.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each piece first in flour to dry the surface, then dip into beaten eggs, and finally coat generously with a mixture of Italian-style breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This triple-step coating builds that classic crispy layer which will hold up beautifully even after slow cooking.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then quickly fry the chicken breasts for about two minutes per side. You’re aiming for a golden crust here, not to cook through—this quick sear brings out an irresistible texture and flavor that will carry into the crockpot.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a large bowl, combine your red pasta sauce, plain tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. This robust sauce combo layers vivid tomato flavor with aromatics and herbs for a rich, comforting base.

Step 5: Layer and Cook

Spoon half of the sauce mixture into the bottom of your slow cooker to create a flavorful bed. Arrange the browned chicken breasts on top and then pour over the remaining sauce. If you like, sprinkle on a bit more Italian seasoning for extra herbaceous aroma. Cover and cook on low for about four hours until the chicken is tender and infused with all the saucy goodness.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

About fifteen minutes before the cooking time ends, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken. Replace the lid to let the cheese melt into a gooey, luscious blanket that rounds out this heavenly dish perfectly.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Recipe

A white round plate holds a bed of plain yellow spaghetti noodles forming the first layer, topped with a thick layer of rich red tomato sauce. On top of the sauce, there is a large piece of golden brown, breaded chicken covered with more tomato sauce. The chicken is sprinkled with melted white cheese and small green herb leaves, with a fresh green basil leaf placed in the center. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a gold spoon and fork on a checked beige and white napkin to the left. Behind the plate, there is a green glass cup, white bowl filled with chopped green herbs, and two wooden pepper and salt mills. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley and basil are your go-to garnishes here. They add an inviting burst of color and that unmistakably fresh herb flavor that brightens every bite.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with spaghetti or any pasta you favor, making for a classic, hearty combo. For extra greens and crunch, a simple side salad or roasted vegetables works beautifully to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Recipe to the next level by serving it over creamy polenta or even zucchini noodles for a lighter twist. You can also scoop it into toasted sub rolls for an irresistible Parmesan chicken sandwich that’s perfect for casual lunches or game day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crockpot Chicken Parmesan keeps very well. Simply transfer the chicken along with the sauce into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. This makes a great next-day meal that tastes just as satisfying, if not better.

Freezing

If you want to store it longer, freeze the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. It will keep well for up to 2-3 months. Freeze cooked pasta separately to keep textures from getting mushy upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Adding a splash of water or extra sauce can help keep the chicken luscious instead of drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Recipe. They tend to be juicier and can handle the slow cooking beautifully without drying out.

Do I have to brown the chicken first?

While you can skip browning, searing the chicken before slow cooking adds fantastic texture and flavor, giving that desirable crispy crust that makes this dish so special.

Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Yes! Homemade marinara is a perfect choice and can enhance the flavor with fresh ingredients. Just be sure the sauce isn’t too watery to avoid a runny final dish.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Cook the chicken on low for 4 hours, and it should be tender and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

What cheese can I substitute for mozzarella?

If you want to mix things up, provolone, fontina, or even a blend of Italian cheeses can be delicious alternatives with slightly different flavors and melting qualities.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making a classic like this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Recipe with such little fuss and so much rewarding flavor. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this dish combines comfort, simplicity, and deliciousness in a way that’s hard to beat. I highly encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new go-to weeknight favorite that brings everyone running to the table.