crock pot italian chicken recipe

The Best crock pot italian chicken recipe

I’ve been making this crock pot Italian chicken recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish has its roots in traditional Italian cuisine, where chicken is slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce with herbs and spices.

When I first made it, I was blown away by how tender and flavorful the chicken turned out. The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients and letting the crock pot do all the work.

I love how easy it is to throw all the ingredients together in the morning and come home to a hot, ready-to-eat meal. My kids especially love when I serve it with pasta or rice, as it makes for a satisfying and filling dinner.

Over time, I’ve tweaked the recipe to make it healthier by using less oil and adding more vegetables. Now, my whole family enjoys it without feeling guilty about what we’re eating.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it at any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. It’s also great for meal prep, as you can cook a large batch on the weekend and store it for later use.

Crock Pot Italian Chicken

4.8 from 1455 votes

Tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich Italian tomato sauce with bell peppers and onions. This easy slow cooker meal is perfect for a busy weeknight and pairs well with pasta or crusty bread.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 10 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 medium onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer.
2Season them with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.
3Scatter the sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic over the chicken.
4Pour the entire jar of marinara sauce on top, ensuring all pieces are coated.
5Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4 hours, or until the chicken is fork-tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6The sauce should be bubbling gently around the edges.
7Carefully remove the chicken breasts with tongs and place them on a serving platter.
8Spoon the sauce and vegetables over the chicken, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

🔧Equipment

6-quart slow cooker
Measuring spoons
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 2.5g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 42g

📝Notes

For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Serve over cooked spaghetti or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

This crock pot Italian chicken recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re planning a family gathering or just need a quick dinner solution for a busy weeknight.

One of my favorite ways to serve this dish is over pasta or rice with some crusty bread on the side.

You can also store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for later use.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Italian Chicken

Q: What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. If you prefer leaner meat, use breasts; if you prefer more flavor and tenderness, use thighs.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a regular pot on the stovetop?

No, this recipe specifically requires a crock pot to achieve the same level of tenderness and flavor. You can try making it on the stovetop or oven, but it won’t be the same.

Q: Can I add other vegetables besides bell peppers?

Yes! This recipe is flexible when it comes to vegetables. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms.

Q: How long does this recipe take to cook?

This recipe takes about 6-8 hours to cook in a crock pot on low heat.

Q: Can I freeze this cooked chicken for later use?

Yes! This cooked chicken freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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