Being busy doesn’t have to mean you compromise on a delicious meal. Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken is a fantastic dish that brings the flavors of Italy right into your home with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for those nights when you want to come home to a warm and comforting dinner. Cooked in a slow cooker, this chicken dish becomes tender and flavorful, infused with the aromas of marinara sauce, garlic, and Italian seasonings. Plus, the best part is, it’s incredibly easy to prepare!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 320
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
- Fat: 12 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Sodium: 800 mg
Why Make This Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken
Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken is a perfect dish for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It combines the savory richness of marinara sauce with the tender juiciness of chicken, creating a cozy dish that automatically lifts your mood. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this slow cooker recipe allows you to enjoy great flavors with minimal effort.
How to Make Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. This forms the base of your flavorful dish, allowing the chicken to soak up all the deliciousness.
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Step 2: Mixing
In a bowl, mix together marinara sauce, sliced bell pepper, chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture will provide a rich and vibrant sauce that enhances the chicken perfectly.
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Step 3: Cooking
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring that the chicken is well-coated. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become extremely tender and flavorful.
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Step 4: Finishing
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the sauce using two forks. This step makes the chicken even more cozy and allows it to absorb all those tangy flavors. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
How to Serve Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over a bed of pasta for a classic Italian meal, or with steamed rice for a lighter option. You can also place the shredded chicken on hoagie rolls for mouthwatering sandwiches. Freshly baked bread or a simple green salad on the side would complement this dish well too.
How to Store Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken
- For added flavor, consider browning the chicken breasts in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker.
- Feel free to add more vegetables to the mix, such as zucchini or mushrooms, for an extra nutritional boost and enhanced texture.
- Adjust your seasoning to taste; if you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
Delicious Variations
- Creamy Italian Chicken: Stir in cream cheese or sour cream while shredding the chicken for a creamy version.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or sautéed eggplant to create a plant-based dish the whole family will love.
- Pasta Dish: Mix in cooked pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking to create a hearty one-pot meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker. However, increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they are thoroughly cooked. -
What type of marinara sauce should I use?
Use your favorite store-bought brand or homemade marinara sauce. A good-quality sauce makes a big difference in flavor! -
Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
Yes, you can simmer all the ingredients in a large pot on the stovetop for about 30-45 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. -
How can I make this dish lower in sodium?
Look for low-sodium marinara sauce and limit added salt. Fresh herbs also enhance flavor without adding sodium. -
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your marinara sauce is gluten-free, this dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken is a delightful dish that will enchant your taste buds without taking up too much of your time. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s a meal that brings joy to the table. So, gather your ingredients and give this easy recipe a try today! Your family is sure to love it, and you’ll enjoy the simple preparation and amazing aroma that wafts through your home. Enjoy cooking!
