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Want some Italian comfort but don't feel like spending forever in the kitchen? Toss chicken breasts in a slow cooker and let them get cozy with crispy breadcrumbs and rich marinara. Pile on mozzarella at the end for the ultimate cheesy finish. Plate it up on pasta or just dive in with a fork. This chicken dish is cozy and super easy.
What Makes This Shine
Everybody at your table will love how easy this comes together and how good it tastes. The slow cooker keeps the chicken juicy and lets those Italian flavors really soak in. You get a crackly outside plus gooey cheese on top—can’t miss with that combo.
What You’ll Need
- Chicken: Four pieces, skin left off and bones out.
- Egg & Milk: This mix helps the coating stick.
- Bread Crumbs: Go for Italian for max crunch and flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Gives a bit of salty nuttiness.
- Marinara: Adds depth and ties it all together.
- Mozzarella: Loads of it for extra melt and stretch.
- Seasonings: Use salt, pepper, and olive oil just before cooking.
Steps That Make It Simple
- Cheesy Topping
- Sprinkle on mozzarella and let it melt over the hot chicken at the end.
- Slow Cook Time
- Drop the coated chicken pieces into the slow cooker with marinara and let them cook low and slow.
- Get That Crunch
- Cook coated chicken in a pan until the outside gets golden—this locks in flavor and keeps things crisp.
- Chicken Prep
- Dunk chicken in the egg-milk dip then roll it in the seasoned crumbs.
- Start The Coating
- Whisk up your eggs and milk together. Set up your breadcrumb mix separately.
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Expert Advice
Seriously, don’t miss out on the pan-frying. It makes the outside just right. Use a tasty marinara, and toss some chopped herbs over everything for extra color and flavor. Want to change things up? Try piling slices onto crusty bread or serve on pasta for a twist.
Saving What’s Left
Pop leftovers in the fridge with a lid on and they'll last up to three days. Reheat 'em in an air fryer or oven if you want the crumb to stay nice and crisp. They’re perfect for a speedy bite tomorrow!
Common Questions
- → Why sear the chicken first?
Browning holds that crunchy crust and boosts flavor before you toss it in the slow cooker.
- → Can I skip the breading?
Sure, but that crunchy parm outside's what makes it so good.
- → Do I need to flip the chicken while cooking?
Nope, once you set it up, let it go. The slow cooker takes care of everything.
- → What pasta goes best with this?
Penne, fettuccine, spaghetti—whatever noodle you like works just fine here.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of cutlets?
Go for it. Just flatten them first so they turn out juicy and soak up flavor better.