When the day has been non-stop and the last thing on your mind is complicated cooking, this slow cooker chicken marinara feels like a small gift. The aroma begins to fill the house hours before dinner—tomatoes mingling with Italian herbs, the faint hint of garlic, and just the right touch of spice. It’s the kind of scent that pulls you into the kitchen, promises warmth, and invites you to pause. By the time you’re ready to eat, the chicken is tender and infused with the sauce’s rich flavors, all without a fuss.
I remember one evening in particular when the rain was tapping steadily against the window, and the slow cooker had been quietly working its magic all afternoon. Coming home to that cozy, savory smell was like wrapping myself in a familiar blanket. The sauce clung perfectly to the chicken, each bite comforting and satisfying, reminding me that simple meals can still feel special.
- Set-it-and-forget-it ease that fits right into busy schedules
- Rich, homemade marinara flavors without the hours of simmering
- Tender, juicy chicken that pairs beautifully with pasta or veggies
- Built-in warmth and comfort from slow-cooked goodness
If you’re worried about juggling dinner with everything else on your plate, this recipe is a reassuring answer—you’ll have dinner ready with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
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Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A simple and flavorful slow cooker chicken marinara recipe perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts simmer in a rich marinara sauce, ready to serve over pasta or your favorite side.
Ingredients
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
24 ounces marinara sauce
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer.
Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken breasts.
Sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper over the sauce.
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a serving plate.
Stir the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil into the sauce in the slow cooker.
Spoon the marinara sauce over the chicken breasts before serving.
Serve hot over cooked pasta, rice, or your favorite side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts so they cook evenly in the slow cooker.
What sides go well with this dish?
Classic pasta, steamed veggies, or even creamy mashed potatoes make great companions.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it in the morning and let the slow cooker do the rest while you handle your day.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, then reheat gently.
Ready to turn your busy weeknights into moments of comfort? Save this recipe, give it a try, and enjoy how effortless dinner can be.