Description
Enjoy tender, juicy chicken breasts slow-cooked in a rich marinara sauce, topped with a melty blend of cheeses. This easy recipe brings classic Italian comfort to your weeknight table with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5–2 lbs)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for searing)
- 24–28 oz jar marinara sauce (good quality)
- 1.5 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1 tbsp melted butter (optional, for topping)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Optionally, sear in olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned.
- Layer in Crock Pot: Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Place seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer. Pour remaining marinara over chicken.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and is tender.
- Add Cheese: 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone cheeses over the chicken. Cover and cook until melted and bubbly.
- Broil (Optional): For a crispy topping, transfer chicken to a baking sheet. Mix Panko with melted butter and sprinkle over cheese. Broil for 2-4 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours (low) / 2-3 hours (high)