Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara and melty mozzarella make Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken a must-try dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, allowing you to enjoy a hearty Italian meal with minimal effort. The combination of flavors will impress your family and friends, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Just season, place in the slow cooker, and let it do the work.
- Rich Flavor: The blend of marinara, garlic, and melted mozzarella creates a comforting taste.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and enriched with cheese for a delightful twist.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken requires just a few essential tools that make cooking easier. Having the right equipment will ensure your dish turns out perfectly 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, ensuring tender chicken with rich flavors.
- Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients like sauces and seasonings efficiently.
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
- Extra garlic cloves
- Fresh oregano
- Sun-dried tomatoes
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly on both sides.
Step 2: Place Chicken in Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned chicken breasts directly into the slow cooker.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning until well mixed.
Step 4: Pour Sauce Over Chicken
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
Step 5: Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
Step 6: Add Cheese
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken.
Step 7: Finish Cooking
Continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Garnish Before Serving
Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving for an added touch of flavor.
Enjoy your deliciously prepared Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
For a Classic Italian Touch
- Pasta: Serve over a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine for a hearty meal.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, it’s perfect for soaking up the marinara sauce.
Healthy Options
- Steamed Broccoli: A light, nutritious side that adds color and balance.
- Zucchini Noodles: Low-carb alternative to pasta, adding a fresh twist.
For Extra Flavor
- Fresh Basil: Sprinkle more fresh basil on top right before serving for an aromatic touch.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add heat to individual servings for those who love spice.
With a Twist
- Polenta: Creamy polenta can be an excellent base under your cheesy chicken.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing and protein-packed side that complements the richness of the dish.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
To ensure your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken comes out perfect every time, consider these simple tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality marinara will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Stick to the recommended cooking times; overcooking can lead to dry chicken.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some bell peppers or mushrooms in the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking before serving. This helps flavors meld together.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix mozzarella with provolone or fontina for extra creaminess.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; everyone’s palate is different, so adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Pairing your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, these potatoes complement the savory flavors of the chicken.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with tangy dressing adds freshness to your plate.
- Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted until tender brings variety.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs offers a simple yet satisfying side option.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar create a vibrant pairing.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweetness from baked sweet potatoes balances the savory chicken nicely.
With these serving suggestions and tips, your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken will be a hit at any dinner table!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best recipes can go awry if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken.
- Ignoring chicken prep: Always season your chicken before cooking. A little salt, pepper, and garlic powder go a long way in enhancing flavor.
- Overcrowding the slow cooker: Ensure there’s enough space for heat circulation. Cooking in batches is better than cramming too much in at once.
- Skipping the cheese step: Adding cheese too early can lead to a burnt texture. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan during the last 30 minutes for a perfect melt.
- Not checking doneness: Rely on time alone; always check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Forgetting garnishes: Fresh herbs like basil add brightness to your dish. Don’t skip this step for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power until warm.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions frequently asked about Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, making it versatile for any meal.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just extend the cooking time by an hour on LOW or 30 minutes on HIGH.
How can I customize Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Is Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken healthy?
Yes, it’s packed with protein from the chicken and can be made healthier by using low-sodium marinara sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute mozzarella and Parmesan with dairy-free cheese alternatives for a delicious dairy-free option.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a comforting choice for any dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste!
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that promises to transform your busy weeknights into comforting culinary experiences. This easy-to-make recipe features tender chicken breasts enveloped in rich marinara sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. With minimal prep time and the magic of slow cooking, you can enjoy a hearty meal that will impress family and friends alike. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, this dish is sure to be a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning; mix well.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
