This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is an easy and delicious recipe that features tender chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful marinara sauce, topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s a great dish to serve over pasta, rice, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
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
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, for garnish
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
In the bottom of the slow cooker, pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce. Add the Italian seasoning and stir to combine.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker, making sure they are nestled into the sauce mixture.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the chicken breasts. Cover the slow cooker again and let the cheese melt for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and serve hot over pasta, rice, or your favorite side dish.
Cooking Notes:
- Marinara Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite marinara sauce, whether homemade or store-bought. You can also add extra flavor by incorporating diced tomatoes, red pepper flakes, or additional herbs.
- Cheese: For a richer flavor, add more Parmesan cheese or mix in other Italian cheeses like provolone or Asiago.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs perfectly with pasta, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
Variations:
1. Cheesy Chicken with Spinach
Add 1-2 cups of fresh spinach to the slow cooker in the last hour of cooking for a boost of nutrition and flavor.
2. Creamy Mozzarella Chicken
Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a creamy, luxurious texture.
3. Spicy Cheesy Chicken
For a bit of heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture or use a spicy marinara sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in this recipe. They will be just as tender and flavorful after slow cooking.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker the night before and store the insert in the fridge. In the morning, simply place it in the slow cooker and start cooking.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Let the chicken cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: This dish is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to use gluten-free marinara sauce if needed.
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is an easy and delicious meal that combines tender chicken, flavorful marinara, and gooey cheese. With minimal prep and the help of a slow cooker, you can have a comforting and satisfying dinner ready without much effort. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of vegetables, and enjoy a cheesy, flavorful meal that the whole family will love!
