Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara and melty mozzarella make this Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken a fantastic dish for any occasion. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe is all about convenience and rich flavors. The slow cooker does the work while you enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Just season the chicken and let the slow cooker do the magic without constant attention.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella creates a creamy, savory dish that is hard to resist.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it over pasta, with rice, or even as a filling in sandwiches for varied dining options.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this cheesy chicken dish, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe can be made ahead of time and reheats well, perfect for leftovers.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious meal:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Measuring Cups
- Mixing Bowl
- Cutting Board
- Chef’s Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow Cooker: This is the heart of the recipe, allowing for hands-off cooking that results in tender chicken.
- Measuring Cups: Ensuring accurate measurements helps maintain flavor balance in your dish.
Ingredients
Tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara and melty mozzarella, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker!
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)
Extras
- Extra garlic cloves (to taste)
- Fresh oregano (to taste)
- Sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Step 1: Season the Chicken
First, season your chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This step adds essential flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Place Chicken in Slow Cooker
Next, place the seasoned chicken breasts into your slow cooker. Make sure they are laid flat for even cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to blend all flavors together.
Step 4: Pour Sauce Over Chicken
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Ensure the chicken is well-coated with sauce.
Step 5: Cook on LOW or HIGH
Cover your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. The longer cook time allows flavors to deepen.
Step 6: Add Cheese Toppings
In the final 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan over the top of the chicken. Cover again until cheese melts.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Continue cooking until cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s ready when everything looks deliciously gooey!
Step 8: Garnish Before Serving
Garnish your dish with fresh basil before serving to add an aromatic touch. Enjoy your meal!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a delicious and hearty dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
Over Pasta
- Serve the cheesy chicken over a bed of spaghetti or penne for a classic Italian meal. The marinara sauce pairs perfectly with the pasta.
With Garlic Bread
- Toast some garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce. This adds a crunchy texture that complements the tender chicken.
On a Salad
- For a lighter option, shred the chicken and serve it on top of mixed greens. Add some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for added freshness.
In Tacos
- Shred the chicken and use it as filling for soft or hard-shell tacos. Top with avocado, salsa, and cheese for a fun twist.
With Rice
- Serve the dish alongside fluffy white rice or risotto to absorb all the flavors of the sauce and chicken.
As a Sandwich
- Create a hearty sandwich using crusty bread. Load it with chicken, melted cheese, and marinara for a satisfying lunch option.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
To make your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose quality chicken: Using fresh, high-quality chicken breasts ensures tender meat that remains juicy during cooking.
- Adjust seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the garlic powder or Italian seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, toss in some bell peppers or zucchini along with the chicken.
- Use freshly grated cheese: Freshly grated mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded varieties and offers superior flavor.
- Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving; this helps all flavors meld together.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for more depth in flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and pair well with chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the dish.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad brings crunch and freshness, making it an excellent accompaniment.
- Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add sweetness and texture alongside your meal.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf is nutritious and serves as an excellent base to soak up extra sauce.
- Baked Zucchini Fries: These crunchy fries are a fun finger food that pairs nicely with cheesy chicken.
- Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous flavored with herbs complements the savory notes of your main dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and brightness, balancing out the richness of cheesy mozzarella chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Over-seasoning the chicken: While seasoning is important, too much can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the recommended garlic powder, salt, and pepper for balanced flavors.
- Using low-quality marinara sauce: The sauce is key in this recipe. Use a high-quality marinara for a richer taste that elevates the dish.
- Not checking chicken doneness: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. A meat thermometer can help prevent undercooking or overcooking.
- Skipping the cheese at the right time: Adding cheese too early can cause it to become rubbery. Wait until the last 30 minutes of cooking to sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Neglecting garnish options: Fresh basil adds flavor and visual appeal. Don’t skip this step; it makes a big difference in presentation and taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power in short intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated 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 1 hour when using frozen meat.
Can I customize ingredients in this slow cooker recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How do I know when my chicken is done?
Your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. A meat thermometer is handy for this!
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheddar or provolone for different flavors.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a delightful dish that combines ease with irresistible flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients while still enjoying its comforting essence. Try it today and impress your family or guests!
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, a dish that takes minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are enveloped in a rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This hands-off recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, allowing you to enjoy delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen as it cooks. With its versatile serving options, from pasta to sandwiches, this cheesy chicken dish will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place seasoned chicken in the slow cooker and lay flat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning; pour over chicken.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
- In the final 30 minutes, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top; cover until melted.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (LOW) or 3 hours (HIGH)
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
