Slow Cooker Italian Chicken – Easy, Juicy, and Full of Flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer if possible.

Step 2: Add Sauce and Flavorings

Pour the jar of marinara over the chicken.

Add the red wine, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir gently to combine without displacing the chicken too much.

💡 Tip: Use a high-quality marinara to keep the sauce fresh and flavorful.

Step 3: Slow Cook

LOW: 5–6 hours
HIGH: 3–4 hours

The chicken should be tender and easily shreddable with a fork.

Step 4: Serve

Shred the chicken directly in the sauce, or slice it for a more composed presentation. Serve over:

🍝 Spaghetti or fettuccine
🍚 Garlic butter rice or mashed potatoes
🥖 Hoagie rolls for Italian chicken sandwiches
🥗 A simple green salad with crusty bread

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Italian Chicken

Shredding vs. Slicing: For sandwiches, shredding is best. For plated dinners, slice for a clean presentation.
Adjust Spice: Omit red pepper flakes for kids or increase for heat lovers.
Extra Sauce: Double the marinara if you want leftovers for pasta.
Wine Substitute: Chicken or vegetable broth works for a non-alcoholic version.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Refrigerate: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Leftovers: Serve over pasta, rice, or in sandwiches the next day — flavor only improves!

General Information

Prep Time: 5–10 minutes
Cook Time: 3–6 hours (depending on heat)
Total Time: 3–6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Difficulty: Easy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Boneless thighs stay juicy and add more richness.

Q: Can I make this in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes covered, then uncover for 5–10 minutes to finish.

Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as your marinara sauce is gluten-free.

Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Sure! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be layered on top before cooking.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Italian Chicken is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can yield crave-worthy meals. Tender chicken, rich tomato-herb sauce, and minimal effort make it a weeknight favorite or a hearty family dinner.

Pair it with pasta, rice, bread, or sandwiches — versatility at its best.