Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara and melty mozzarella make Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken a delightful dish for any occasion. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a comforting Italian flavor with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, ensuring your chicken is juicy and packed with taste, while the gooey cheese adds that extra touch of indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Simply season and let your slow cooker do the rest. Perfect for those hectic days!
- Flavorful Dish: The combination of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella creates a rich, savory experience.
- Versatile Meal: Great served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread—adapt it to your family’s preferences!
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this cheesy chicken dish. It’s sure to please everyone at the table.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead of time and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To get started on this delicious slow cooker meal, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this dish:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: The star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over several hours.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients easily before pouring them over the chicken.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Helps ensure accurate quantities for perfect flavor every time.
Ingredients
Tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara and melty mozzarella make Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken a simple yet indulgent dish!
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
For Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)
- Red pepper flakes for heat (optional)
- Extra garlic cloves (optional)
- Fresh oregano (optional)
- Sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Step 1: Season the Chicken
- Season your chicken breasts generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker.
Step 3: Create the Sauce Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning until well mixed.
Step 4: Add Sauce to Chicken
- Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Step 5: Cook It Low or High
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
Step 6: Add Cheese Toppings
- In the final 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken.
Step 7: Finish Cooking
- Continue to cook until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Garnish Before Serving
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil just before serving for a burst of freshness. Enjoy your delicious meal!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a delicious dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a simple meal or something a bit more elaborate, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Pasta
- Spaghetti – Serve over a bed of spaghetti for a classic Italian meal.
- Fettuccine – Use fettuccine noodles for a hearty and rich pairing.
In a Sandwich
- Sub Sandwich – Load the cheesy chicken onto a sub roll with fresh veggies for a satisfying sandwich.
- Garlic Bread – Serve on toasted garlic bread for extra flavor and crunch.
On Rice
- White Rice – A simple base that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Brown Rice – For a healthier option, brown rice adds nuttiness and fiber.
With Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli – A fresh side that complements the creamy chicken.
- Roasted Asparagus – Adds a touch of elegance to your meal.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
To ensure that your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose Quality Chicken – Fresh, high-quality chicken breasts will yield the best results in flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker – Ensure there’s enough space for heat circulation; this keeps all the chicken perfectly cooked.
- Use Low Sodium Broth – This helps control salt levels while still providing great flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Add Extra Seasoning before Serving – A sprinkle of additional Italian seasoning can enhance flavors right before serving.
- Let it Rest Before Serving – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together.
- Experiment with Add-ins – Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives in the last hour of cooking for extra depth.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Pairing your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken with delightful side dishes can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up all that delicious marinara sauce.
- Caesar Salad – A crisp salad adds freshness and crunch to balance the richness of the cheese.
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and pair well with saucy dishes.
- Zucchini Noodles – A low-carb alternative that’s light yet filling, perfect alongside cheesy chicken.
- Quinoa Salad – Nutty quinoa mixed with fresh vegetables makes for a healthy side option.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a pop of color and sweetness to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using Frozen Chicken: Frozen chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always use thawed chicken breasts for even results.
- Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken can make the dish bland. Ensure you season generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Not Monitoring Cooking Time: Overcooking can dry out the chicken. Stick to the recommended cooking times: LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
- Ignoring Cheese Timing: Adding cheese too early can make it rubbery. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan during the last 30 minutes of cooking for best texture.
- Omitting Fresh Herbs: Skipping fresh herbs like basil can reduce flavor complexity. Always garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
- To prevent freezer burn, wrap the container tightly with plastic wrap before sealing.
Reheating Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some common questions about Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken:
What is Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a tender chicken dish cooked in marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for a comforting meal.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone or cheddar for different flavors while keeping mozzarella as a primary choice.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe allows you to adjust heat levels by adding red pepper flakes according to your preference, making it customizable based on your taste.
What side dishes pair well with Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?
Great sides include garlic bread, spaghetti, or a fresh green salad that balances the richness of the chicken.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding veggies or different herbs. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite—try it today!
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (LOW) or 3 hours (HIGH)
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a comforting Italian-inspired dish that transforms tender chicken breasts into a rich, savory delight. Cooked slowly in marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with family and friends. With minimal effort required, simply season the chicken, let your slow cooker do the work, and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Serve it over pasta, rice, or crusty bread for an indulgent feast that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning; mix well.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the chicken.
- Once melted and bubbly, garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (about 180g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
