Amazing Slow Cooker Mozzarella Chicken That Comforts
Cozy Cheesy Chicken Delight
In the heart of every home lies the comforting aroma of a delicious meal simmering away, ready to bring family and friends together. Inspired by those shared moments, this Easy Cheesy Slow Cooker Mozzarella Chicken Recipe encapsulates the warmth of my childhood. Imagine the rich, zesty notes of marinara and luscious gooey cheese that instantly transport you to an Italian kitchen filled with laughter and love. With tender chicken slowly cooked to perfection and topped with melted mozzarella, this dish is more than just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend gatherings. Let this recipe fill your home with joy and flavor.
Quick Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) / 3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (low) / 3 hours 10 minutes (high)
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: Italian
- Best Season: Year-round
What Makes This Dish Shine
Irresistible Flavors: This slow cooker mozzarella chicken features juicy chicken breasts enveloped in flavorful marinara and zesty herbs. The final touch of bubbling cheese adds an irresistible, gooey element that pulls everything together.
Unbelievably Easy: With minimal prep and effortless cooking, just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker and let them do their magic. You can indulge in life’s pleasures while this dish cooks itself!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weekday dinner, a potluck gathering, or a family weekend meal, this dish shines brightly at any table. Friends and family will keep coming back for seconds, and you’ll be the star of the show.
Comforting and Satisfying: The melding of warm flavors in this dish is like a cozy embrace on a chilly evening. It’s comfort food at its finest, proving that simple ingredients can create magical dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 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)
Ingredient Insights
Chicken Breasts: Select fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor. Frozen chicken can be used, but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
Garlic Powder: Feel free to use fresh minced garlic instead for an extra burst of flavor.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control your dish’s sodium levels. You can also substitute vegetable broth for a lighter option.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite marinara sauce – homemade or store-bought. A spicy version adds a lovely kick.
Step-by-Step Directions
Generously season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides. This step infuses flavor directly into the meat.
Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, arranging them so they are evenly spaced.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Pour this fragrant sauce mixture over the chicken, coating it thoroughly.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is fork-tender, ensuring all the flavors meld perfectly during the slow cooking process.
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the chicken, covering to allow the cheese to melt beautifully.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving to add a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
Pro Pointers for Best Results
Timing Matters: If you’re short on time, the high setting is a great backup. Just keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
Flavor Infusion: For extra flavor, sear the chicken breasts in a pan with a little olive oil before placing them in the slow cooker.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique twist on this comforting classic.
Thickening Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes to allow some steam to escape.
Delicious Variations to Try
Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a delightful kick that’s sure to warm you up.
Creamy Addition: Stir in cream cheese or sour cream to the chicken broth and marinara mixture to create a rich, creamy sauce.
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or hearty eggplant slices for a satisfying vegetarian option.
Regional Flavor: Incorporate southwestern spices like cumin and chili powder for a fusion twist, topped with pepper jack cheese!
Perfect Pairings
Pair this cheesy chicken with a fresh Italian side salad, some crusty garlic bread, or a light pasta dish. A crisp white wine or sparkling lemonade complements the flavors beautifully and enhances your dining experience. For dessert, consider serving with a light sorbet or tiramisu to finish on a sweet note.
Freezer-Friendly Tips
This recipe is fantastic for meal prep!
To Freeze: After cooking, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Be sure to label them with the date.
To Reheat: Simply thaw your portion in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or a saucepan on low, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.
Serving Style
When plating this dish, ladle the succulent chicken and sauce on a plate, allowing the cheese to cascade delightful over the edges. Serve atop a bed of creamy risotto or with a dollop of mashed potatoes. Fresh basil as a garnish adds an elegant touch and inviting aroma that beckons diners to enjoy.
Little Things that Help
Batch Cooking: Cooking a double or triple batch allows for easy leftovers that are perfect for lunch the next day.
Garnish Inspirations: Other herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of crushed walnuts can be delightful variations for garnishing.
Make It Festive: Add holiday spices (like nutmeg and cinnamon) to give it a seasonal touch during the festive months.
Be Mindful of Freshness: Always check expiration dates on your chicken broth and marinara sauce to ensure optimal flavor.
Saving and Storing
To keep this dish delicious for longer:
Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Microwave Reheating: Heat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Stovetop Reheating: Warm the chicken gently in a covered saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Questions You Might Have
Can I use frozen chicken? Yes! Frozen chicken can be used, but ensure it’s thawed completely before cooking for best results.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning? You can create your own blend using dried oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme.
How do I know when the chicken is done? The chicken should be fork-tender and the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Can I make this recipe in the oven? Yes! You can bake it in a covered dish at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes.
How long does this dish last in the fridge? It will keep well for up to 4 days when stored correctly in an airtight container.
Can I add vegetables to this dish? Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be added during the last hour of cooking for extra nutrients.
What is the best way to serve leftovers? Leftovers can be delicious over pasta, in a quesadilla, or as a filling for homemade tacos.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1 breast with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 38g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Cherished Food Reflections
Every meal holds memories, and with this Easy Cheesy Slow Cooker Mozzarella Chicken Recipe, we create new ones together. Reflecting on what good food means, it’s a blend of family, love, and shared moments at the table. Cooking is a way to express care and passion, honoring tradition and delicious flavors. As we gather around our own tables, may this recipe inspire warmth, laughter, and heartfelt connections over shared meals, just like those cherished moments in a bustling kitchen.
One Last Bite of Advice
As you embark on making this slow cooker mozzarella chicken, remember that it’s not just about great food—it’s about celebrating the joy of cooking and the moments you share. We hope this recipe becomes a cherished favorite in your home, evoking the comforts of delicious Italian cuisine and creating memories that last a lifetime. Cook, share, and don’t forget to pin it for later! Enjoy!
Easy Cheesy Slow Cooker Mozzarella Chicken
- Total Time: 190 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting and easy slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
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)
Instructions
- Generously season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, arranging them so they are evenly spaced.
- In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Pour this sauce over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 360 minutes or high for 180 minutes until the chicken is fork-tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the chicken and let melt.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
For a thicker sauce, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes to allow steam to escape. You can also sear the chicken for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
