How to Make Crispy Chicken Parmesan in a Slow Cooker

Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan

Basic Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil for garnish

Spices and Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Preparing Crispy Chicken Parmesan Whole and in Parts

Whole Chicken Version

If you wish to prepare a whole crispy Chicken Parmesan, choose a small chicken (about 3-4 lbs). Cut slits into the chicken and stuff with cheese and marinara sauce. Bread the whole chicken with flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixture. Sear briefly before placing in the slow cooker.

Chicken Parts Version

Use breasts, thighs, or even tenderloins. I usually prefer breasts for a classic texture. Prepare as individual pieces — breaded, seared, and layered with sauce and cheese.

Cooking Temperature and Time Guide

Type	Temperature Setting	Cooking Time
Whole Chicken	Low	6-7 hours
Chicken Breasts (Parts)	Low	3-4 hours
Thighs (Parts)	Low	4-5 hours

Always check that internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.

How to Make Crispy Chicken Parmesan in a Slow Cooker: Step-by-Step

1. Prepare Breading Stations: One plate with flour, one bowl with beaten eggs, and one plate with a breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture.
2. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each piece first in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture.
3. Sear the Chicken: In a skillet with olive oil, lightly brown the chicken for extra crispiness.
4. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Pour a bit of marinara sauce, add chicken, more sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Cook: Set on low according to the guide above.
6. Final Crisping (Optional): Broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes before serving for maximum crispiness.

Calories and Nutritional Information

• Per Serving (1 breast):
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g

If you want a healthier version, read the next section!

How to Make Diet-Friendly Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Use the following modifications:

• Replace breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or almond flour.
• Use part-skim mozzarella cheese.
• Bake instead of frying before slow cooking.
• Use skinless chicken breasts.

This method reduces calories to about 300 kcal per serving.

First Courses Made from Chicken Parmesan

• Chicken Parmesan Soup:

Dice the cooked chicken Parmesan, add it to chicken broth with diced tomatoes, spinach, and small pasta.

• Chicken Parmesan Salad:

Slice the chicken thin and serve it over arugula with a light vinaigrette.

Second Courses Made from Chicken Parmesan

• Classic Chicken Parmesan Platter:

Serve over spaghetti with extra marinara and basil.

• Chicken Parmesan Sandwich:

Place between ciabatta rolls with fresh mozzarella and a drizzle of olive oil.

Other Cooking Methods for Chicken Parmesan

Microwave

• Bread and sear the chicken beforehand.
• Microwave on medium power for about 5-7 minutes per piece, flipping halfway.

Multicooker

• Use the “Sauté” function to sear.
• Then switch to “Slow Cook” mode on low.

Skillet

• Fully cook breaded chicken in a skillet.
• Cover with sauce and cheese at the last minute, allow cheese to melt.

Oven

• Bake breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.
• Top with sauce and cheese and bake 5 more minutes.

Clay Pots

• Bread the chicken and place in individual clay pots with sauce and cheese.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes.

Tips for Maintaining Crispiness

• Always sear the chicken before slow cooking.
• Use a kitchen towel under the slow cooker lid to absorb moisture.
• Finish under the broiler for an extra crisp.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual portions wrapped tightly.
• Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot to retain crispiness.

FAQ about Making Crispy Chicken Parmesan