This Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara is the perfect weeknight meal for busy families. This tender chicken is coated in a flavorful marinara sauce for a great topping for pasta or sandwiches.
Finding time to cook can be a challenge for busy families, but with the help of this simple recipe, you can have a delicious meal ready to enjoy when you come home from a long day of work.
Not only is this dish easy to make, but it is loaded with protein! Add some veggies, and you have a well-balanced meal!
If you love chicken recipes, then next you should try this Baked Chicken and Orzo recipe or this Baked Chicken Ravioli.
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Ingredients
This is an overview of the ingredients that you need to make this recipe. You can find the full list of ingredients in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Chicken breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are our go-to, but chicken thighs or chicken tenders work just as well.
- Marinara sauce – Use your favorite store-bought jar of marinara sauce or make your own for that extra personal touch.
- Onion & Garlic – Fresh onion and minced garlic are essential for building a strong flavor base. Garlic powder or onion powder works too if you’re short on time!
- Italian seasonings – A mix of oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes add warmth and depth. If you prefer an all-in-one blend, Italian seasoning is perfect.
- Parmesan cheese – Stirring grated parmesan into the marinara sauce adds richness. Save a little extra for garnishing.
- Mozzarella cheese – For melty, cheesy deliciousness on top of the chicken.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for enhancing the flavor to perfection.
Instructions
This is an overview of the steps needed to make this recipe. The full instructions are available in the recipe card.
Step 1: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
Step 2: Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) over the sauce.
Step 3: Cover the slow cooker and cook until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Shred the chicken up with two forks in the sauce.
Step 4: Once done, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve over cooked pasta or on sub rolls.
Hint: Always spray your crock pot with nonstick cooking spray or use a slow-cooker liner for zero cleanup.
Storage
Storage: Transfer any leftover chicken and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag; freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave in 30-second increments or warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of extra sauce to keep it from drying out.
Wendy’s Tips
- Want more sauce? Add an extra jar of marinara to ensure there is enough to go around, primarily if served with pasta.
- Experiment with different cheeses! A mix of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan works wonders. For a creamy twist, try fresh ricotta.
- Double up the recipe for an easy dinner that feeds the whole family—or dinner rotation for busy weeks!
What To Serve With Chicken Marinara
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping into that rich tomato sauce.
- Pasta – Spaghetti, fresh pasta, or even zoodles are great options.
- Roasted Vegetables – Serve alongside roasted broccoli and Brussels sprouts, baby carrots.
- Salad – A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is a great way to round out the meal. You can also try it with this Orzo Salad.
FAQs
Substitute with spaghetti sauce or tomato sauce seasoned with garlic salt, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
Cook on low heat, making sure there’s enough sauce to keep the chicken moist. Check the internal temperature for doneness.
Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Shredder (Can use 2 forks)
- Spoon for mixing
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked pasta or sub rolls for serving
Instructions
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) over the sauce.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Shred the chicken up with 2 forks in the sauce.
- Once done, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve over cooked pasta or on sub rolls.
Disclaimer:
Any nutritional data I provide is an approximation and actual dietary information can vary based on ingredients and proportion sizes.
Nutrition
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