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 or cozy family gatherings. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it a standout option for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive holidays.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just season the chicken, toss in the ingredients, and let your slow cooker do the work.
• Delicious Flavor Profile: The combination of marinara sauce and melty mozzarella creates a comforting, savory dish that everyone loves.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with pasta, on a bed of rice, or with crusty bread for dipping—perfect for any side!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
• Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters will enjoy this cheesy, flavorful dish!

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this meal requires just a few essential tools that make everything easier. With the right equipment, you can streamline the cooking process and achieve delicious results every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking, making meals incredibly easy to prepare.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining sauces and seasoning without creating a mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts for consistent flavor every time.

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)

Additional Flavors

• 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 Breasts

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This step will infuse your chicken with flavor right from the beginning.

Step 2: Add Chicken to Slow Cooker

Place your seasoned chicken into the slow cooker. Ensure they are spread out evenly so they cook properly.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until everything is mixed together.

Step 4: Pour Sauce Over Chicken

Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. This will keep your chicken moist as it cooks.

Step 5: Cook on Low or High

Cover your slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. The longer cooking time on low will result in more tender chicken.

Step 6: Add Cheese Toward End

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top of the chicken. Cover again to allow cheese to melt.

Step 7: Finish Cooking

Continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This makes for an irresistible topping that ties all flavors together.

Step 8: Garnish Before Serving

Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving. This adds a lovely touch of freshness to your delicious meal!

Enjoy your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, a delightful dish that combines hearty ingredients with ease!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

Serving Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a delightful experience. The creamy, cheesy chicken pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor.
• Oregano: Add some fresh oregano leaves for an aromatic touch.

On a Bed of Pasta

• Spaghetti: Serve over cooked spaghetti for a comforting meal.
• Fettuccine: Pair with fettuccine for a creamy, indulgent dish.

With Added Vegetables

• Roasted Veggies: Serve alongside roasted zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Steamed Broccoli: A great side that complements the richness of the chicken.

As a Sandwich

• Sub Rolls: Place the cheesy chicken in sub rolls for a fun twist on the classic sandwich.
• Ciabatta Bread: Use ciabatta for a crunchy, flavorful option.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Garlic Bread: Enjoy with slices of garlic bread topped with extra mozzarella for cheese lovers.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, consider these tips.

• seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; they elevate the flavors of the chicken.
• Quality marinara sauce: Use a high-quality marinara sauce to enhance the overall taste.
• Chicken size matters: Ensure chicken breasts are uniform in size for even cooking.
• Use fresh cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
• Control cooking time: Adjust cooking times based on your slow cooker’s temperature settings for best results.

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 delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery companion that soaks up the delicious sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: A crisp salad adds freshness and crunch to balance out the richness.
3. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf provides a nice base to soak up all that cheesy goodness.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes offer a hearty, filling side that complements the dish.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus adds vibrant color and flavor contrast.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, perfect against the creamy chicken.
7. Polenta: Creamy polenta makes for an excellent base under your cheesy chicken.
8. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): A low-carb alternative that absorbs all the flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly will result in bland flavors. Always use garlic powder, salt, and pepper for the best taste.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Placing too much chicken in the slow cooker can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for heat circulation by using the right amount of chicken.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking on HIGH instead of LOW may dry out the chicken. Stick to the recommended cooking durations for tender results.
• Not checking doneness: Rushing to serve without checking if the chicken is fully cooked can be risky. Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Forgetting about toppings: Adding cheese too early can make it rubbery instead of gooey. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

• Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy identification.

Reheating Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, we’ve got answers!

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just add an extra hour on LOW or 2 hours on HIGH to ensure they cook thoroughly.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?

This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. Start small and adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!