Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich tomato sauce topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, finished with crispy toasted Italian breadcrumbs. Perfect for a hands-off meal that delivers classic Italian flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Tomato Sauce Mix
- 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 8 ounce can tomato sauce
- 4 ounces tomato paste
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried sweet basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Chicken and Toppings
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup Italian breadcrumbs
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: Combine crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, dried sweet basil, salt, and black pepper in the slow cooker; mix well to create a flavorful tomato base.
- Add Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the prepared tomato sauce in the slow cooker, ensuring they are submerged or coated evenly.
- Slow Cook: Cook the chicken on low heat for 4 to 6 hours until tender and fully cooked through.
- Finish Sauce: Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and stir the sauce well to combine all flavors.
- Add Cheese Toppings: Return the chicken breasts to the slow cooker or a serving dish and top each piece with the sauce and a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese.
- Toast Breadcrumbs: In a small pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat for about one minute. Add Italian breadcrumbs and cook, stirring regularly, for about 5 minutes until golden and toasted.
- Serve: Plate the chicken breasts topped with sauce and melted cheeses, then sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs on top for added crunch and flavor. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if preferred; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- For a lower sodium version, reduce or omit added salt.
- Use freshly grated cheeses for the best flavor and melting texture.
- Breadcrumbs can be seasoned further with garlic powder or herbs for extra flavor.
- This recipe pairs well with pasta, garlic bread, or a green salad.
