Discover how to make Crockpot Italian Chicken with this simple, flavorful slow cooker recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners. Try it today!
Crockpot Italian Chicken
If you’re looking for a delicious, hassle-free meal, Crockpot Italian Chicken is the perfect choice. This slow cooker recipe is packed with classic Italian flavors and requires minimal prep. You simply add chicken breasts with Italian dressing, marinara sauce, and some herbs, then let the crockpot work its magic. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want a home-cooked dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love It
This recipe is incredibly easy and fuss-free, using everyday ingredients to create a comforting, flavorful dish. The chicken turns out juicy and tender, infused with savory Italian herbs and tangy marinara. Plus, cooking it in the crockpot frees up your time to focus on other things while your meal prepares itself. It’s family-friendly, versatile, and perfect for pairing with pasta, rice, or steamed veggies.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – fresh or thawed works fine.
- 1 cup Italian dressing – choose your favorite bottled dressing or homemade.
- 1 cup marinara sauce – use store-bought or homemade marinara.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – for that classic Italian flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds aromatic depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – adjust according to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground if possible.
- Optional: 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers and 1/2 cup sliced onions to add veggies and sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot to create the base.
- Pour the Italian dressing and marinara sauce evenly over the chicken.
- Sprinkle the dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the top for flavor.
- If using, add sliced bell peppers and onions around the chicken for extra texture and taste.
- Cover and set your crockpot to low heat. Cook for 4 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender.
- Remove chicken and serve hot with your choice of sides, spooning some sauce over the top.
For more simple slow cooker meals, don’t miss our Easy Weeknight Dinners collection.
Expert Tips
Make sure to check the chicken’s internal temperature before serving to ensure it’s fully cooked. You can add extra Italian herbs like basil or thyme to customize the flavor. For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes to let some liquid evaporate. This recipe scales easily, so increase ingredients for more servings without changing cook time significantly.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free marinara and Italian dressing to keep it safe.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free — no changes needed.
- Vegan: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and ensure Italian dressing is vegan-friendly.
- Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
FAQ
- What is crockpot Italian chicken?
- It’s a slow cooker recipe where chicken breasts are cooked with Italian dressing, marinara sauce, and herbs for tender, flavorful results.
- Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
- It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. Frozen chicken may increase the cook time and risk uneven doneness.
- What sides go well with this Crockpot Italian Chicken?
- Serve with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Can I double this recipe?
- Yes, double the ingredients for a larger batch but avoid overfilling your crockpot for even cooking.
- How do I prevent watery sauce?
- Remove the crockpot lid during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking to reduce excess liquid.
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