Easy Italian Chicken Crockpot Dinner
A delicious, budget-friendly Italian-inspired crockpot chicken dish that’s simple to prepare, bursting with Mediterranean flavors, and perfect for busy weeknights. Serves tender chicken in a rich tomato-based sauce with herbs and vegetables.
Yield: 4 people
Calories: 280kcal
Cost: $5
Equipment
- Crockpot / Slow Cooker
- Skillet
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons
Materials
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for juicier results
- 1 can crushed tomatoes 15 oz
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 medium zucchini sliced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning oregano, basil, thyme blend
- 0.5 tsp salt to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for spice
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
- 2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley chopped, for garnish
- 1 tbsp olive oil optional, for searing
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Optionally, sear in a skillet with olive oil until golden on both sides (about 2 minutes per side).
- In the crockpot, add crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, bell pepper, zucchini, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- Place seasoned chicken into the crockpot, ensuring it is covered with the sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred chicken gently with a fork inside the crockpot, stir in Parmesan, and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Notes
For a creamier version, stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or cream cheese before serving.
For a low-carb option, serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.