Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara and melty mozzarella make this Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken a standout dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe offers rich Italian flavors without the fuss. The slow cooker does all the work, ensuring juicy chicken every time. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread for a delightful meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does the magic.
- Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella creates a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish over pasta, rice, or even on its own with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Family-Friendly Meal: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy goodness, making it an ideal family dinner option.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is great for batch cooking; leftovers reheat well and taste even better the next day!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring tender chicken every time.
- Mixing bowl: Use this to combine your sauces effortlessly before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Sharp knife: A good knife makes prepping ingredients quick and easy, saving you valuable time.
Ingredients
For this delicious Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, you’ll need:
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)
Extras for Flavor
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- Extra garlic cloves
- Fresh oregano
- Sun-dried tomatoes
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Season your chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This enhances their flavor before they go into the slow cooker.
Step 2: Place Chicken in Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned chicken breasts directly in your slow cooker. Ensure they are evenly spaced out for even cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well blended.
Step 4: Pour Sauce Over Chicken
Carefully pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, making sure they are fully covered.
Step 5: Cook Your Dish
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully with the chicken.
Step 6: Add Cheese Toppings
In the final 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken. Cover again until melted.
Step 7: Serve with Garnish
Once done, garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving. This adds a lovely color and fresh flavor to your dish.
Enjoy your meal!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a delicious and hearty meal that can be served in various ways. Whether you want a simple plate or a more elaborate presentation, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
Pair with Pasta
- Spaghetti or Fettuccine – Serve the chicken over a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine for a classic Italian touch.
- Penne or Rigatoni – Use short pasta shapes to scoop up the cheesy goodness of the dish.
Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch that complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Caprese Salad – The fresh tomatoes and mozzarella in Caprese salad echo the main dish while adding brightness.
Bread Options
- Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious marinara sauce.
- Crusty Baguette – A slice of crusty baguette provides a satisfying crunch and makes for an excellent side.
Rice Variations
- Risotto – Creamy risotto pairs beautifully with the chicken, adding creaminess to each bite.
- Herbed Rice – Simple herbed rice can absorb the sauce and balance out the meal’s richness.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
To make your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs like basil and oregano elevate flavor compared to dried versions.
- Brown the Chicken First – Searing the chicken before slow cooking adds depth of flavor and enhances texture.
- Adjust Seasoning – Always taste before serving; feel free to adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Layer Cheese Wisely – Add cheese towards the end of cooking for a perfectly melted, gooey topping.
- Add Vegetables – Toss in bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients and color in your dish.
- Garnish Generously – A sprinkle of fresh basil on top not only looks appealing but also adds freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Completing your meal with side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that pair well with Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside rich chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious contrast to the cheesy flavors.
- Roasted Asparagus – Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness, making it a delightful companion.
- Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with vegetables helps balance out the heaviness of cheese.
- Zucchini Noodles – For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles offer an excellent base that soaks up sauce well.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements savory dishes perfectly and adds a fun element to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken.
- Skipping the seasoning: Always season your chicken breasts before cooking. This enhances the flavor and ensures a delicious meal.
- Not using enough liquid: Make sure to include enough chicken broth or sauce. This prevents the chicken from drying out and keeps it tender.
- Overcooking the chicken: Monitor cooking times closely. Overcooked chicken can become tough, so follow the recommended cooking duration.
- Neglecting cheese placement: Add cheese during the final 30 minutes of cooking. This allows it to melt perfectly without becoming rubbery.
- Not garnishing before serving: Fresh herbs like basil add flavor and visual appeal. A simple garnish can elevate your dish significantly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short increments, stirring occasionally, until hot. This usually takes about 2-4 minutes.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, stirring gently 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, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker.
Can I customize my Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Also, consider different cheeses for varied flavors.
How do I make Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken spicier?
To spice it up, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce mixture before pouring it over the chicken.
What should I serve with Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?
Pair this dish with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is not just easy to prepare but also versatile and satisfying. You can customize it with various ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try for a warm and cozy meal that will delight your family!
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken. This effortless dish features tender chicken breasts drenched in rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted mozzarella. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe requires minimal prep time, making it an ideal choice for those who want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply let your slow cooker do the work while you relish in the enticing aroma of Italian flavors wafting through your home. Serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete and delightful dining experience that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning; pour over chicken.
- Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes, top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese; cover until melted.
- 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 (150g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
