Easy Dump and Go Crockpot Italian Chicken Recipe with Peppers and Onions
A simple and flavorful crockpot recipe featuring chicken breasts, bell peppers, and onions simmered in marinara sauce with Italian seasoning. Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep and maximum taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 7 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3 hours 10 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes (high)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 medium bell peppers (mixed colors: red, yellow, green), sliced thin
- 1 large yellow or sweet onion, sliced
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse and slice the bell peppers into thin strips. Peel and slice the onion thinly.
- Pat dry the chicken breasts and season lightly with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
- Optional: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the peppers and onions for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened and fragrant.
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Spread the peppers and onions evenly over the chicken.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the crockpot with two forks or leave whole. Stir gently to combine flavors. Serve hot over rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
- Optional pro tip: If sauce is watery, remove lid and cook on high for 15-20 minutes to reduce and thicken.
Notes
Sautéing peppers and onions is optional but adds caramelized flavor. Season chicken before cooking for best flavor. If sauce is watery after cooking, reduce by cooking uncovered on high for 15-20 minutes. Can be adapted for Dutch oven or stovetop. Use gluten-free marinara for gluten-free diet. Variations include adding Italian sausage, swapping chicken for mushrooms for vegetarian option, or adding cheese before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approxima
- Calories: 320350
- Fat: 810
- Carbohydrates: 1215
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 35
Keywords: crockpot chicken, Italian chicken, dump and go recipe, slow cooker, bell peppers, onions, easy dinner, weeknight meal