Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Recipe
If you’re craving a warm and comforting dish that practically cooks itself, look no further than Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken! This creamy, flavorful meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Picture tender chicken breasts swimming in a savory marinara sauce, all topped with three types of cheese melting into a gooey delight. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! Did you know that slow cooking not only makes meat incredibly tender, but it also allows all those delicious flavors to blend beautifully? This dish is a family favorite that pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare that your loved ones will be asking for seconds! If you enjoy this recipe, you might also want to explore our lovely Creamy Garlic Chicken, which has a similar comforting feel but with a twist of garlic flavor. So grab your slow cooker—let’s get started on this cheesy masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use as much or as little seasoning as you like!
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
- Add the Sauces: Pour the chicken broth and marinara sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-covered.
- Season Again: Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the top to add that aromatic flavor that pulls the dish together.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. When properly cooked, the chicken will be tender and easily pull apart with a fork.
- Add Cheese: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Cover and let it melt into a deliciously gooey topping.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the cooking time is complete and the cheese is melted, serve the chicken warm over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
- What to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken With
- This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it over a bed of pasta for a classic Italian flair, or alongside a light salad to add freshness to the meal. For an extra comfort food feel, serve it with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. You could also complete your dinner with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water garnished with lemon for a refreshing twist!
- Top Tips for Perfecting Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- For those looking to elevate their cooking game, here are some top tips for achieving the perfect Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken:
- Ingredient Customization: Feel free to swap the chicken for turkey or use kale for a veggie-packed version. You can also experiment with different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for extra flavor.
- Monitoring Cooking Time: Be mindful of the cooking time based on the heat setting used—every slow cooker is different, so check for doneness by ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Avoid Sogginess: If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, remove the lid for the final 30 minutes to let some moisture evaporate.
- Extra Flavor: Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the slow cooker for added veggies and flavor!
- Storing and Reheating Tips
- If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (though they might not last long!), here are some tips for storing and reheating them. This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To enjoy your delicious meal later, reheat it in the microwave, making sure it’s heated thoroughly. For long-term storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it up on low in a saucepan, mixing gently until heated through.
- Now that you've got the recipe for this Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, I hope you feel inspired to try it out soon! Enjoy making it for your family, and watch it become a cherished part of your dinner rotation. Happy cooking!