Easy Peasy Parmesan Chicken in the Crockpot (Only 5 ingredients!)
Looking for a delicious and hassle-free meal? This Easy Peasy Parmesan Chicken in the Crockpot is the answer! With just 5 simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prepping.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Great flavors: The combination of seasoned bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, and spaghetti sauce creates a savory and comforting dish.
- Quick prep time: Just layer the ingredients in the crockpot and let it cook – no need for extensive cooking skills or time-consuming steps.
- Perfect for meal prep: This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time and enjoying throughout the week.
Ingredient Notes:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts/tenders (frozen or thawed): The protein base of the dish, can be substituted with boneless pork chops or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Seasoned canned bread crumbs: Adds a crispy coating to the chicken, can be replaced with panko bread crumbs for a different texture.
- Parmesan cheese: Provides a rich and nutty flavor, fresh parmesan can be used instead of the canned version.
- Prepared spaghetti sauce: Adds moisture and flavor to the dish, choose your favorite brand or make your own sauce from scratch.
- Mozzarella (shredded): Melts beautifully on top of the chicken, provolone or cheddar can be used as alternatives.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Place a layer of seasoned bread crumbs on the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add a layer of chicken on top of the bread crumbs.
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the chicken.
- Pour spaghetti sauce over the chicken.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the chicken before serving.
Helpful Tips:
- For a crispy coating, broil the chicken in the oven for a few minutes after it’s done cooking in the crockpot.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve the chicken over cooked pasta or with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use quality ingredients for the best flavor – opt for organic chicken, fresh parmesan, and homemade spaghetti sauce if possible.
- To prevent the chicken from drying out, make sure not to overcook it in the crockpot.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this Parmesan Chicken with a side salad, steamed veggies, or a crusty baguette. For drinks, try a glass of Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, frozen chicken can be used, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Can I add vegetables to the crockpot? Feel free to add diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Cheddar, provolone, or Swiss cheese can be substituted for the mozzarella.
- Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot? Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot by adjusting the cooking time and settings.
Conclusion:
Give this Easy Peasy Parmesan Chicken in the Crockpot a try and enjoy a delicious and effortless meal. Don’t forget to share your feedback and any creative variations you come up with!
PrintEasy Peasy Parmesan Chicken in the Crockpot (Only 5 ingredients!)
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 4-8 hours
- Total Time: 4-8 hours 10 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Easy Peasy Parmesan Chicken in the Crockpot recipe is a simple and delicious way to make a flavorful chicken dish with minimal effort. The combination of parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and spaghetti sauce creates a tasty coating for the chicken, and the slow cooker does all the work for you!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts/tenders (frozen or thawed)
- 1 1/2 cups (app.) of seasoned canned bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese
- 1 or 2 jars (24 oz each) of prepared spaghetti sauce (Prego, Ragu, etc.)
- Mozzarella (shredded)
Instructions
- Coat the Chicken: In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Coat each chicken breast with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Layer in Crockpot: Place coated chicken in the crockpot. Pour spaghetti sauce over the chicken.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella over the chicken and sauce in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve: Serve hot over pasta or with a side of vegetables.
Notes
- You can add Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
- If using frozen chicken, increase cooking time accordingly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg