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Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan has turned into one of my easiest comfort meals for busy weeks when everyone’s craving something cozy but I do not want to fuss with the oven or splattering pans This recipe brings all the cheesy saucy flavors of the classic right onto your dinner table with almost zero hands on cooking
What Makes It Special
- Ready to go in your slow cooker in just ten minutes
- Breaded chicken stays juicy and absorbs loads of flavor while simmering in sauce
- No frying required so cleanup is a breeze
- Great for serving a family or having leftovers for sandwiches the next day
I first made this when my friend had a new baby and it became her weeknight lifesaver Since then my own kids ask for it nonstop especially when a little comfort is just what the doctor ordered
What You’ll Need
- Olive oil: gives the chicken a rich base and prevents sticking in the slow cooker Choose a fruity extra virgin oil if possible
- Eggs: help the breading stick Pick the freshest ones for the fluffiest coating
- Panko bread crumbs: create a light crispy layer Go gluten free if that’s your preference
- Grated parmesan cheese: packs a salty nutty bite Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor
- Italian seasoning: infuses everything with herby goodness Opt for a blend with oregano and basil upfront
- Salt: brings out all the flavors Do not skip it
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: go for ones about the same size for even cooking Aim for firm plump cutlets from a reputable butcher
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts perfectly and brings gooeyness Whole milk mozzarella will give a richer melt
- Marinara sauce: use a jarred variety with simple ingredients or your homemade favorite
- Fresh mozzarella: adds that extra melty finish Good mozzarella makes all the difference—look for one packed in brine
- Shredded parmesan cheese: for a nutty golden finish again fresh is best
- Freshly cooked pasta and fresh basil for serving: go with a classic spaghetti or penne and snip basil leaves right before serving for max aroma
Let’s Cook This Together
- Prep the Slow Cooker:
- Drizzle olive oil into the bottom of your large oval slow cooker making sure to coat the entire surface so the chicken releases easily later
- Prepare the Egg Wash:
- Beat the eggs in a wide shallow bowl until fully combined For the fluffiest coating a quick splash of water makes the egg mixture extra light
- Mix the Breading:
- Combine panko bread crumbs grated parmesan Italian seasoning and salt in a separate bowl Use a fork to toss everything so the seasonings are well distributed
- Bread the Chicken:
- Dip each chicken breast into the egg wash ensuring it is completely coated on all sides Then press it gently into the panko mixture turning and patting so the bread crumbs stick to every nook
- Layer in the Slow Cooker:
- Arrange each breaded chicken breast in a single layer at the bottom of your oiled slow cooker Try not to overlap the pieces so they cook evenly
- Add Cheese and Sauce:
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the chicken to cover each piece Then pour the entire jar of marinara sauce gently over everything letting the sauce seep into all the spaces
- Top With More Cheese:
- Place slices of fresh mozzarella over each chicken breast and sprinkle the shredded parmesan evenly across the top
- Cook Low and Slow:
- Cover the slow cooker Set to high for about two to three hours or to low for four to six hours Check that the chicken reaches an internal temp of 165 degrees Fahrenheit with a quick poke from a meat thermometer
- Rest and Serve:
- Once it is cooked remove the lid and let everything cool slightly to help the cheese set Use a wide spatula to serve each piece The chicken will be meltingly tender and extra saucy
- Finish and Enjoy:
- Serve over freshly cooked pasta and scatter on lots of torn basil The aromas will fill the whole kitchen
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Good to Know
- Feeds a crowd and can be made ahead for meal prep
- Chicken becomes super tender and is perfect for next day sandwiches
- Great for gluten free options with the right bread crumbs
My favorite part is always the pooling mozzarella on top which turns golden and stretchy Every time we make this the sight of bubbling cheese brings everyone running to the table I will never forget the night my youngest proudly declared it the best dinner ever as we watched a movie together in pajamas
Keeping It Fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The breading stays surprisingly tasty even after reheating If you want to keep things at their peak microwave gently or heat in a 300 degree oven covered with foil so the cheese stays soft
Easy Ingredient Swaps
You can try boneless thighs for extra juiciness or switch up the sauce by using a tomato basil blend For cheese buffs blend provolone or fontina with the mozzarella or toss in a sprinkle of sharp pecorino for bolder flavor If you do not have fresh mozzarella just stick to shredded
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How to Serve It Right
Always serve this dish over a bed of pasta that you have just drained and tossed with a little olive oil that way the sauce sticks to every strand A big leafy salad with a tangy vinaigrette on the side makes it feel like a trattoria dinner Garlic bread is a classic side if you have time to pop some in the oven
Behind the Dish
The traditional chicken parmesan is usually pan fried and baked but slow cooking makes sure the chicken never dries out Plus the flavors meld together as everything simmers What really makes this version special for me is the sense of ease—no splattering oil no kitchen mess—just simple comforting food with big payoff
Kitchen Wisdom
- If your slow cooker runs hot check the chicken after two hours to avoid overcooking
- Always let the dish sit uncovered for a few minutes so the cheese and juices settle for cleaner portions
- For extra crunch add a handful of toasted panko just before serving
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you keep the chicken from drying out in the slow cooker?
Layering the coated chicken and covering it with sauce creates a moist environment. Cooking on low heat helps retain juiciness and tenderness.
- → Can I use gluten-free bread crumbs?
Yes, gluten-free panko bread crumbs provide great texture and work just as well in coating the chicken breasts for this dish.
- → Is it necessary to brown the chicken before slow cooking?
No browning is needed; the slow cooker gently cooks the crumb-coated chicken, keeping it tender though without a crunchy crust.
- → What pasta pairs best with this meal?
Spaghetti is a classic choice, but penne or rigatoni also soak up the marinara and cheese sauce beautifully.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble everything in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate overnight. Start cooking when you're ready the next day.