Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara and melty mozzarella, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker! Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is the perfect dish for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or cozy dinners. This recipe combines simplicity with rich Italian flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or whip up a quick meal, this dish checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Just season, add ingredients, and let your slow cooker do the work.
- Flavorful: The combination of marinara and melted mozzarella creates an irresistible taste.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over pasta, rice, or even in a sandwich.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy chicken delight.
- Great Leftovers: Perfect for meal prep; the flavors get even better the next day!
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools will make preparing your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken even easier. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This is essential for achieving tender chicken that falls apart effortlessly.
- Mixing bowl: Useful for combining sauces and ensuring even flavor distribution.
- Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate seasoning so every bite is just right.
Ingredients
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 Add-Ins
- Extra garlic cloves
- Fresh oregano
- Sun-dried tomatoes
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Step 1: Season the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly on both sides.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Place the seasoned chicken into the slow cooker.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning until well mixed.
Step 4: Pour the Sauce Over Chicken
- Carefully pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Step 5: Cook It Right
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
Step 6: Add Cheese Toppings
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the top of the chicken.
- Continue cooking until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish Before Serving
- Once done, garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving for added flavor.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your deliciously creamy and cheesy creation! Perfect for any occasion, this Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken will surely become a favorite staple in your home cooking repertoire.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Serving Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides and fresh garnishes to elevate the meal.
Classic Italian Side Salad
- Crisp romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette.
Garlic Bread
- Toasted bread topped with garlic butter, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Steamed Vegetables
- A mix of broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers adds color and nutrition to your plate.
Pasta
- Serve over cooked spaghetti or penne to enjoy the flavors of the sauce even more.
Rice
- Fluffy white or brown rice absorbs the juices from the chicken beautifully.
Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for this cheesy dish.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
To ensure your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and garlic enhance flavor significantly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before serving.
- Cook Low and Slow: For tender chicken, cook on LOW for the best results.
- Add Cheese at the Right Time: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan in the last 30 minutes to achieve melty perfection.
- Experiment with Toppings: Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking to let flavors meld.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese complement the chicken nicely.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing mix of quinoa, cucumber, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a healthy touch.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and low-carb alternative to pasta that pairs well with marinara sauce.
- Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a satisfying crunch alongside tender chicken.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds an elegant touch to your plate.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a delightful contrast to savory flavors in the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch for.
- Over-seasoning the chicken: Adding too much salt or seasoning can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced flavor.
- Using low-quality marinara sauce: The sauce is key to this recipe’s flavor. Choose a good-quality marinara for the best results.
- Not monitoring cooking time: Cooking for too long or too short can affect texture. Use a timer and check doneness as suggested.
- Skipping the cheese at the right time: Adding cheese too early may lead to burnt or rubbery cheese. Follow the instructions for perfect melted cheese.
- Ignoring garnishes: Fresh herbs like basil enhance both flavor and presentation. Don’t skip this step!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it in a container.
Freezing Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
- Make sure to label with the date and contents.
Reheating Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but adjust cooking time accordingly. It may take longer to cook thoroughly.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
You can try provolone or gouda as alternatives. Both will melt well and add their unique flavors.
How do I make Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken spicier?
To add heat, include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when adding your marinara sauce.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini work well and add nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different cheeses or veggies based on your preferences. Give it a try; it’s an easy way to create comfort food that everyone will love!
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Imagine tender chicken breasts bathed in a rich marinara sauce, topped with gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This effortless dish combines Italian flavors that everyone will adore, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Serve it over pasta, rice, or in a sandwich for a delightful meal that is not only simple but also satisfying. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can have dinner ready without hassle. Enjoy this delicious cheesy chicken delight that promises to become a staple in your home cooking!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning; pour over the chicken.
- Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
