Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan

Takes a favorite Italian dish and makes it weeknight-easy. The trick is searing the breaded chicken first for that crispy coating, then letting it slow cook in marinara until tender. Just add cheese at the end for that perfect melt.

Paolina baker
Updated on Wednesday 27 November 2024
A close-up view of chicken topped with melted mozzarella cheese and basil leaves, simmering in a rich tomato sauce inside a slow cooker.
A close-up view of chicken topped with melted mozzarella cheese and basil leaves, simmering in a rich tomato sauce inside a slow cooker. Pin it
A close-up view of chicken topped with melted mozzarella cheese and basil leaves, simmering in a rich tomato sauce inside a slow cooker. | Quickierecipe.com

Craving Italian comfort food without the fuss? This Chicken Parmesan in your slow cooker delivers all the flavor with minimal effort. Tender chicken breasts wear a golden breadcrumb coat, simmer in rich marinara, and get topped with gooey mozzarella. Serve over pasta or solo - either way, this Chicken Parmesan is pure comfort.

Why This Recipe Works

Your family will adore this Chicken Parmesan that combines convenience with restaurant quality taste. The slow cooking ensures juicy chicken while developing those classic Italian flavors. That crispy coating and melty cheese layer make every bite absolutely perfect.

Simple Ingredients Needed

  • Main Star: Four chicken breasts, boneless and skinless.
  • Coating Base: Egg and milk create the perfect dip.
  • Crispy Layer: Italian breadcrumbs for that golden crust.
  • Extra Flavor: Fresh Parmesan adds nutty richness.
  • Classic Touch: Good marinara sauce makes this dish shine.
  • Melty Top: Plenty of mozzarella for that perfect finish.
  • Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and olive oil for cooking.

Easy Steps To Success

Start The Coating
Mix up your egg wash and seasoned breadcrumbs in separate bowls.
Prep The Chicken
Give each piece a good dip in egg then coat with those seasoned crumbs.
Get That Crust
Pan-fry until golden - this is key for perfect Chicken Parmesan.
Slow Cook Magic
Layer with marinara in your slow cooker let it simmer to perfection.
Cheese Please
Top with mozzarella near the end let it get all melty and delicious.
A plate of spaghetti topped with marinara sauce, melted cheese, and fresh basil, garnished with black pepper. Pin it
A plate of spaghetti topped with marinara sauce, melted cheese, and fresh basil, garnished with black pepper. | Quickierecipe.com

Pro Tips

Don't skip the pan-frying step - it's crucial for that classic Chicken Parmesan texture. Good marinara makes all the difference, and fresh herbs on top take it to the next level. Try serving over pasta or sliced on crusty bread for amazing sandwiches.

Storing Your Creation

Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to three days. Warm them up in the oven or air fryer to keep that crispy coating. These leftovers make fantastic quick meals the next day too!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why sear the chicken first?

Searing helps keep the breading crispy and locks in flavor before slow cooking.

Can I skip the breading?

You can, but you'll miss out on the classic chicken parm texture and taste.

Do I need to flip the chicken while cooking?

No need - the slow cooker does all the work once you've set it up.

What pasta goes best with this?

Any pasta works great - spaghetti is traditional, but penne or fettuccine are good too.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of cutlets?

Yes, just pound them thin first so they cook evenly and pick up more flavor.

Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan

A slow cooker version of the Italian favorite combining crispy breaded chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
240 Minutes
Total Time
260 Minutes

Category: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: 4 Servings (4 cutlets)

Ingredients

01 4 chicken cutlets.
02 1 egg.
03 1/4 cup whole milk.
04 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs.
05 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated.
06 1 teaspoon salt.
07 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
08 1/4 cup olive oil.
09 1 jar (22 oz) marinara sauce.
10 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded.

Instructions

Step 01

Mix egg and milk in bowl. Mix breadcrumbs, parmesan, salt, pepper in another bowl.

Step 02

Dip cutlets in egg mixture. Coat with breadcrumb mixture.

Step 03

Heat oil in skillet. Cook each cutlet 3-4 minutes per side, just brown outside.

Step 04

Pour marinara in slow cooker. Place seared chicken on sauce. Cook LOW 4-5 hours or HIGH 3-4 hours. Add mozzarella last 30 minutes.

Step 05

Serve over pasta of choice.

Notes

  1. Sear first for crispy coating.
  2. Can use chicken breasts if pounded thin.
  3. Any type pasta works.
  4. Don't need to flip while cooking.

Tools You'll Need

  • Slow cooker.
  • Skillet.
  • Mixing bowls.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (milk, cheese).
  • Wheat (breadcrumbs).
  • Eggs.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 524
  • Total Fat: 27g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 21g
  • Protein: 49g