Description

Crockpot Chicken Parmesan brings all the comfort of classic Italian flavors — tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, gooey melted cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping — with none of the hassle. This slow-cooker version delivers all the warmth and flavor of the traditional favorite while keeping things simple and mess-free. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners!

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½–2 pounds total)

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Sauce and Flavor Base:

3 cups (700 ml) marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Cheese Layer:

1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese

¼ cup (25 g) shredded provolone cheese (optional)

Crispy Topping:

½ cup (30 g) seasoned breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon melted butter

Optional Garnish:

Fresh basil leaves, chopped

Extra Parmesan cheese for serving

To Serve:

Cooked spaghetti, fettuccine, or zucchini noodles

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This locks in flavor and keeps the chicken juicy as it cooks.

Step 2: Layer the Sauce
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the crockpot. This prevents sticking and adds a rich base flavor.

Step 3: Add the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken in a single layer over the sauce. Avoid overlapping to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Add Remaining Sauce and Seasonings
Pour the remaining 2 cups of marinara sauce over the chicken. Add minced garlic, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. These will infuse the sauce as it simmers.

Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on Low for 5–6 hours or High for 2½–3 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Tip: Keep the lid closed during cooking to maintain heat.

Step 6: Add the Cheese
About 15–20 minutes before serving, sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone over the chicken. Cover again until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.

Step 7: Make the Crispy Topping
While the cheese melts, toast breadcrumbs with melted butter in a small skillet for 2–3 minutes until golden. This adds the traditional Chicken Parmesan crunch.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Serve chicken over spaghetti or zucchini noodles. Top with toasted breadcrumbs, fresh basil, and extra Parmesan for a restaurant-style finish.

Notes

Use boneless chicken thighs for extra tenderness.
Don’t overcook — check the chicken around the 5-hour mark on Low.
Add cheese near the end to prevent it from becoming rubbery.
Use quality marinara sauce for best flavor.
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley elevate the aroma and presentation.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours
Category: Dinner / Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce and cheese
Calories: 410 kcal
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 890 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 45 g
Cholesterol: 140 mg