Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara and melty mozzarella make the Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken a must-try dish for any occasion. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The slow cooker does all the work while you enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen. With its rich flavors and creamy cheese topping, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Just season your chicken, add the sauce, and let the slow cooker do its magic.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of marinara and mozzarella creates a deliciously comforting dish.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and wholesome ingredients without sacrificing taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To create this amazing slow-cooked dish, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Cooking Spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow Cooker: The heart of this recipe! It gently cooks the chicken to perfection while infusing flavors.
- Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining sauces and seasonings before adding them to your slow cooker.
- Measuring Cups: Ensure accurate ingredient portions for consistent results each time.
- Cooking Spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients together and serving your delicious creation.
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 Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)
- Red pepper flakes for heat
Additional Flavor Enhancers
- 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. Make sure they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Place Chicken in Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned chicken breasts directly into your slow cooker. Arrange them so they are not overlapping.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well mixed.
Step 4: Pour Sauce Over Chicken
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Ensure that all pieces are covered.
Step 5: Cook on Low or High
Cover your slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours until the chicken is tender.
Step 6: Add Cheese Toppings
In the final 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken.
Step 7: Cook Until Bubbly
Continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This adds a delicious cheesy layer to your dish.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving. Enjoy your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken with pasta, rice, or on its own!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a comforting meal or something light and fresh, there are many options to elevate this delicious chicken.
Serve with Pasta
- Pair the chicken with spaghetti or penne for a hearty Italian meal. The marinara sauce complements the pasta beautifully.
On a Bed of Rice
- Serve over fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up the savory sauce. This makes for a filling and satisfying dish.
In a Sandwich
- Use crusty bread or toasted rolls to create a delightful sandwich. Add some greens for crunch and freshness.
With Garlic Bread
- Accompany your chicken with warm garlic bread. This is perfect for dipping into the rich sauce.
As a Salad Topping
- Shred the chicken and use it as a topping on mixed greens. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette for a lighter option.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Enhance the flavor by garnishing your serving with extra fresh basil or oregano. It adds freshness and visual appeal.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.
- Use quality ingredients: Fresh chicken breasts and high-quality marinara sauce make a significant difference in taste.
- Season well: Don’t skip on seasoning the chicken beforehand; it ensures every bite is flavorful.
- Adjust cooking time: If your slow cooker runs hot, check the chicken earlier to avoid overcooking.
- Monitor cheese melt: Add mozzarella towards the end of cooking to keep it melty but not overly cooked.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add red pepper flakes or other herbs for an extra kick.
- Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Serving Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken with complementary side dishes can round out your meal perfectly. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair well with rich sauces.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients to your plate.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing offer a refreshing contrast.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve over spiralized zucchini for added texture without the carbs.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad brings nutty flavors that complement the chicken.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with olive oil make an excellent side choice.
- Antipasto Platter: Cheese, olives, and cured meats create an Italian-inspired starter that pairs beautifully.
- Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes offer a unique base that absorbs all the delicious sauce from the chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking with a slow cooker can be simple, but some common mistakes can ruin your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Ignoring the Cooking Time: Always follow the recommended cooking times. Cooking too long can dry out the chicken or make it tough.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your chicken properly. A lack of seasoning can lead to bland flavors in your dish.
- Overloading the Slow Cooker: Avoid filling the slow cooker beyond its capacity. Too much food can affect cooking times and results.
- Not Browning the Chicken: While optional, browning the chicken before placing it in the slow cooker adds depth of flavor. Skipping this step may result in a less flavorful dish.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Invest in good-quality marinara sauce and cheese. Poor ingredients will affect the overall taste of your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Use within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a pan, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
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, all cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker.
Can I customize my Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms or use different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
How do I know when my chicken is done?
Your chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by about an hour on LOW or 30 minutes on HIGH.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. With its rich flavors and gooey cheese topping, it’s sure to satisfy any craving. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or veggies for added flair!
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the comfort of Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella. This effortless slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Simply season the chicken, add the sauce, and let the slow cooker work its magic. In just a few hours, your kitchen will be filled with mouth-watering aromas, and you’ll be left with a scrumptious meal that’s ideal for serving over pasta, rice, or in sandwiches. With healthy ingredients and a creamy cheese topping, this dish promises to impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning; pour over chicken.
- Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours until tender.
- Add mozzarella cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
