A Simple, Healthy, Flavorful Dinner Made in the Slow Cooker
If you’re looking for a dinner that feels comforting, flavorful, and completely fuss-free, this Slow Cooker Italian Chicken is it. With just a few simple ingredients and a sprinkle of Italian herbs, your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting—leaving you with tender, juicy chicken that pairs beautifully with roasted veggies, or any side dish you’d prefer. It’s the kind of recipe that makes busy weeknights easier and family dinners more enjoyable. Even better, the leftovers taste just as good the next day (if you have any!). This herbed chicken has quickly become a favorite in my house, and I know it will be in yours too.
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Ingredients You’ll Need for This Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe
You don’t need many items to make this Slow Cooker Italian Chicken recipe. Most are probably already in your pantry!
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt
- Dried oregano
- Dried basil
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Bay leaves
- Marinara sauce
How To Make This Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe
Now that you’re ready to make this cozy meal, let’s walk through the simple steps of this recipe that I found in Prevention’s Best of Slow Cooker Recipes, by Jenny Sucov. You’ll be surprised at how quickly everything comes together before the slow cooker takes over.
Step 1 – Prepare chicken and add herbs.
Cut the chicken breast into 2 inch cubes and then put the cubes into a 4-quart or larger slow cooker. Scatter the salt, oregano, basil, black pepper, and bay leaves over the chicken.
Step 2 – Pour sauce.
Pour the sauce over the chicken and make sure it’s completely covered.
Step 3 – Cook and serve!
Place the cover on the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours. Remove the bay leaves. I served this meal with roasted asparagus, but you can serve it with any side you desire!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe
There are many reasons to love this recipe—it’s simple, full of flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s why you will love it:
- Minimal ingredients – With just chicken breasts, herbs, and marinara, the slow cooker works its magic to create tender, seasoned chicken that tastes delicious.
- Hands-off cooking – After a quick prep, you can let your slow cooker do the work while you go about your day.
- Family-friendly – The flavor is classic, making this a dish everyone will enjoy. My 4 year old daughter loved it and she can be picky!
- Versatile sides – I served mine with roasted asparagus, but it also pairs beautifully with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or any other roasted vegetable.
- Healthy and satisfying – Lean protein and healthy herbs make this a nourishing choice you’ll feel good about serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about This Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe
Have a question or two about making this Slow Cooker Italian Chicken meal? Here are some common questions, as well as tips to make the recipe work for you.
Yes! Chicken thighs would work really well too, but have more calories and fat, so it depends on what you are concerned about. Chicken thighs do have more protein though!
Searing is not necessary! All you have to do is cut the raw chicken into cubes before putting it in the slow cooker.
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Definitely! The second time I made this recipe I doubled it. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold everything. I have a 6 qt. slow cooker. Cooking time may be slightly longer depending on your slow cooker.
Absolutely! Homemade sauce adds a fresh touch, but store-bought is convenient. I like Rao’s Marinara Sauce since it’s just as good as homemade.
You can reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. You just might want to add a splash of extra marinara sauce to keep the chicken moist.
Below is the recipe, adapted slightly, from Prevention’s Best of Slow Cooker Recipes, by Jenny Sucov.
Slow Cooker Italian Chicken
Equipment
- 1 Slow cooker
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (8 oz each)
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 24 oz marinara sauce
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into 2 inch cubes and place into a 4-quart or larger slow cooker. Scatter the salt, oregano, basil, black pepper, and bay leaves over the chicken.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken, making sure it's completely covered.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Bringing It All Together
This Slow Cooker Italian Chicken is proof that a handful of simple ingredients can create a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious. With its tender chicken, herby marinara sauce, and endless side dish options, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in regular rotation—especially on busy weeknights.
I’d love to know if you try this recipe! Share your favorite side pairings in the comments below, or let me know if you made any fun twists of your own. And if your family enjoys it as much as mine does, don’t forget to save or share this recipe so you can come back to it again and again.
If you’re looking for more nourishing meals that fit into your busy life, be sure to explore my other recipe blog posts:
- Juicy Skillet Pork Chops
- Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
- Slow Cooker Italian Pot Roast
- Quick & Healthy Hot Cereal
- Healthy Steak Salad
- Cranberry Tuna Salad
- Spicy Egg Salad
- Crustless Broccoli Quiche
- Spice-Rubbed Grilled Pork Chops with Carrots
- Slow Cooker Herbed Pork Roast
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