Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

Tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara and melty mozzarella create a delightful dish known as Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, allowing you to enjoy Italian flavors with minimal effort. The combination of creamy cheese and savory sauce will have your family asking for seconds!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Chicken
• Seasoning & Broth
• Cheese & Garnish
• Optional Add-ins
• How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
• Step 1: Season the Chicken
• Step 2: Place Chicken in Slow Cooker
• Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
• Step 4: Pour Sauce Over Chicken
• Step 5: Cook on Low or High
• Step 6: Add Cheese in Final Minutes
• Step 7: Garnish Before Serving
• How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
• Over Pasta
• With Rice
• In a Wrap
• On a Salad
• With Garlic Bread
• As Sliders
• How to Perfect Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
• Reheating Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?
• Can I use other types of cheese?
• How do I make this recipe spicier?
• Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: With the slow cooker doing all the work, you can prepare other meals or relax while dinner cooks.
• Flavorful Experience: The blend of marinara, mozzarella, and spices creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Serve this chicken over pasta, rice, or even with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests; everyone loves cheesy chicken!
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and relatively low in calories, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools. Using the right equipment will make your experience seamless and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Mixing Bowl
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Knife and Cutting Board

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This appliance allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring your chicken remains tender and juicy.
• Mixing Bowl: A spacious bowl is crucial for combining ingredients easily without mess.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for prepping your fresh ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

For this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Chicken

• 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts)

Seasoning & Broth

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

Cheese & Garnish

• 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

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Place Chicken in Slow Cooker

Put the seasoned chicken breasts directly into your slow cooker. Ensure they are evenly spaced for proper cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until well blended.

Step 4: Pour Sauce Over Chicken

Carefully pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Ensure that all pieces are covered with the sauce.

Step 5: Cook on Low or High

Cover your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken tender.

Step 6: Add Cheese in Final Minutes

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken. Cover again until melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish Before Serving

Once cooked, garnish your dish with chopped fresh basil before serving. Enjoy this tasty meal with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want a hearty meal or a light snack, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Over Pasta

• Serve the cheesy chicken over a bed of cooked spaghetti or penne for a classic Italian meal.

With Rice

• Pair with fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.

In a Wrap

• Use tortillas to create a tasty wrap filled with cheesy chicken, fresh veggies, and your favorite sauces.

On a Salad

• Top mixed greens with shredded Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken for a healthy and flavorful salad option.

With Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside toasted garlic bread for a perfect combination of flavors and textures.

As Sliders

• Shred the chicken and serve it on slider buns for an easy appetizer at your next gathering.

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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 high-quality mozzarella cheese elevate the dish’s overall flavor.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before cooking. Adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to suit your preference.

• Layering matters: Place chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker for even cooking and flavor absorption from the sauce.

• Cook low and slow: Cooking on LOW for 6 hours allows flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re short on time, HIGH for 3 hours works too but may alter texture slightly.

• Add vegetables: Consider adding bell peppers or zucchini during cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

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 great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic provide comfort alongside the cheesy chicken.

2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender makes for a colorful and nutritious side.

3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing adds crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the chicken.

4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing offers healthy grains that complement the dish well.

5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and health benefits without overpowering the main dish.

6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn cooked in butter brings sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory flavors of mozzarella chicken.

7. Baked Zucchini Fries: These crispy fries are a fun way to sneak in some veggies while providing great texture alongside your meal.

8. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, or ground meat make for an exciting addition that pairs nicely with cheesy chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, it’s easy to make simple mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for a tasty dish.
• Using frozen chicken: Cooking frozen chicken in a slow cooker can lead to uneven cooking. Always use thawed chicken for even heat distribution and safety.
• Neglecting the cheese timing: Adding cheese too early can result in a rubbery texture. Save the mozzarella and Parmesan until the last 30 minutes of cooking for perfect meltiness.
• Not monitoring liquid levels: Too little liquid can dry out your dish. Ensure there’s enough broth or sauce by checking during cooking.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh basil and oregano add vibrant flavor. Don’t skip these garnishes; they elevate the dish significantly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil and reheat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?

Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a comforting dish made with tender chicken breasts cooked in marinara sauce and topped with melty mozzarella cheese.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone or gouda for different flavors while still keeping that melty texture you crave.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the marinara sauce before pouring it over the chicken for extra heat.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can season the chicken and mix the sauce ingredients ahead of time. Simply store everything in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it by adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers. This recipe will surely become a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners at home. Give it a try!