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 a fantastic dish for family dinners, meal prepping, or gatherings with friends. This recipe combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with the convenience of a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal without much fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Simply season and let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy your day.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of marinara sauce and mozzarella creates a deliciously creamy dish that everyone will love.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, rice, or even in a sandwich for a tasty twist.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends at any occasion.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delightful dish, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth cooking and better results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This is the heart of the recipe, allowing for low-and-slow cooking that tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without creating a mess.
- Tongs: Perfect for flipping or serving the chicken without losing any delicious sauce.
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 Topping
- 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
- Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Place Chicken in Slow Cooker
- Lay the seasoned chicken breasts flat in your slow cooker. This will help them cook evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until everything is blended.
Step 4: Pour Sauce Over Chicken
- Carefully pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure each piece is covered well.
Step 5: Set Your Slow Cooker
- Cover your slow cooker and set it to 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 cheese and grated Parmesan over the top of the chicken.
Step 7: Finish Cooking
- Continue cooking until both cheeses are melted and bubbly. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Before serving, garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or add a little flair, here are some great serving suggestions.
With Pasta
- Serve over cooked spaghetti or fettuccine for a hearty meal.
- Toss with penne for a baked pasta dish topped with extra cheese.
On a Bed of Rice
- Pair with fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option that still satisfies.
In Tacos
- Shred the chicken and serve in warm tortillas with fresh toppings.
- Add avocado, salsa, and cilantro for a refreshing twist.
With Crusty Bread
- Serve alongside garlic bread or a baguette to mop up every bit of sauce.
- Offer soft dinner rolls for a delightful side to your meal.
In Salad
- Toss shredded chicken on top of mixed greens for a light lunch.
- Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and Italian dressing for freshness.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
To ensure your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance flavor and aroma.
- Don’t overcook: Stick to recommended cooking times to avoid dry chicken.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving; tweak salt and spices as needed.
- Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving for better texture.
- Experiment with cheeses: Blend mozzarella with provolone or gouda for unique flavors.
- Add veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or mushrooms into the slow cooker for added nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Pairing your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty options to complement this delicious dish.
- Garlic Bread – A classic choice, perfect for soaking up the marinara sauce. Easy to prepare by spreading butter and garlic on slices of bread before baking.
- Steamed Broccoli – This healthy side adds color and nutrients. Simply steam until tender and season lightly.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing balances the richness of the chicken. Toss in croutons and parmesan for extra crunch.
- Zucchini Noodles – A light, low-carb alternative to pasta that pairs well with the cheesy sauce. Sauté briefly before serving.
- Risotto – Creamy risotto makes a luxurious side dish that complements the flavors beautifully. Prepare it slowly for best results.
- Roasted Asparagus – Drizzle with olive oil and roast until tender-crisp. The slight bitterness enhances the richness of the chicken dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a delicious dish, but some common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not properly seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper before cooking.
- Overcrowding the slow cooker: If you add too much chicken or sauce, it may not cook evenly. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
- Not measuring liquids: Using too little or too much broth or sauce can affect texture and flavor. Make sure to measure your chicken broth and marinara sauce accurately.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking on HIGH for too long can dry out the chicken. Follow the suggested cooking times for moist, tender results.
- Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh basil or other garnishes diminishes presentation and flavor. Always add a finishing touch for an appealing dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- For best results, divide into single servings before freezing.
Reheating Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Be careful not to overheat as cheese may become rubbery.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat. Stir gently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just extend the cooking time by about an hour on LOW.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?
Pair it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How do I customize this Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken recipe?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and makes great leftovers throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a comforting and versatile dish perfect for busy weeknights. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, where tender chicken breasts are coated in rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted mozzarella. This effortless slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy families, meal prepping, or entertaining friends. With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it, allowing your slow cooker to transform simple ingredients into a delicious Italian-inspired feast. Serve it over pasta, in tacos, or with crusty bread for a versatile dish that will surely impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix together chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning; pour over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Once melted and bubbly, garnish with fresh basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours on LOW
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce (180g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
