Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan

Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan is a slow cooker dinner recipe made with breaded chicken breasts simmered in rich marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This easy chicken parmesan recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken with a crispy coating and classic Italian-inspired taste, all prepared in the slow cooker for convenience.

Ingredients

• 1 (25 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 ½ cups Italian-seasoned panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• Salt and black pepper, to taste (about 1 tsp each)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or more if desired)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 package spaghetti, cooked (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Lightly grease a 5–6 quart oval slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Pour the marinara sauce into the bottom and spread evenly.
2. Prepare two shallow bowls:
   • In the first, whisk together the egg and milk. Season with salt and pepper.
   • In the second, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, and basil.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
4. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumbs.
5. Brown the chicken in the hot skillet for a few minutes per side until golden. Do not fully cook the chicken at this stage.
6. Place the browned chicken breasts on top of the marinara sauce in the slow cooker.
7. Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. About 10–15 minutes before serving, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
9. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt.
10. Serve over hot cooked spaghetti.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker chicken parmesan delivers tender, juicy chicken coated in a crispy breadcrumb layer and slow-cooked in rich marinara sauce. The melted mozzarella and Parmesan create a cheesy topping that pairs perfectly with pasta, making it a comforting and family-friendly dinner option with minimal effort.

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Tips

• Brown the chicken before slow cooking to help the coating stay crisp and flavorful.
• Avoid flipping the chicken too often in the skillet to keep the breading intact.
• Use a good-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
• Check chicken doneness with a thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for extra tenderness.
• Swap panko for regular breadcrumbs if needed.
• Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
• Replace mozzarella with provolone or an Italian cheese blend.
• Serve over zucchini noodles or mashed potatoes instead of pasta.

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FAQs

Can I skip browning the chicken?
Yes, but browning adds better texture and helps the coating stick.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, cook on high for about 3–4 hours, depending on your slow cooker.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve chicken parmesan over spaghetti with extra marinara sauce on top. Pair it with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete Italian-style meal. It also works well for meal prep and can be enjoyed in sandwiches or wraps the next day.