Slow Cooker Mozzarella Chicken

Turn simple chicken breasts into a delicious, restaurant-quality meal with this easy slow cooker recipe! The combination of tender chicken, savory marinara, and gooey mozzarella creates an irresistible Italian-inspired dish that’s sure to satisfy.

The Perfect Comfort Meal for Busy Nights

Looking for a hassle-free dinner? This cheesy chicken dish brings all the comforts of a homemade meal with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy families craving something special without the stress.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great and stay extra tender when cooked slowly.

Why add cheese at the end?
Adding cheese too early can make it tough and stringy. By adding it closer to the end of cooking, you ensure it melts perfectly and becomes a gooey topping.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can season the chicken and combine the sauce ingredients the night before. Store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Pro Tips:

Even thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
Keep the lid closed: Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking to maintain heat.
Rest the chicken: Let the chicken sit for 10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
Fresh cheese: Grate the cheese yourself for the best melt and flavor.
Check the temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe and optimal cooking.
Garnish last: Add fresh basil or other garnishes just before serving to keep them vibrant.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

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

For the Topping:

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

Optional Add-ins:

Red pepper flakes for a little heat
Extra garlic for bold flavor
Fresh oregano for extra herbal notes
Sun-dried tomatoes for a rich, tangy twist

Instructions:

Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Place in the Slow Cooker: Arrange the seasoned chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix the chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning.
Cook: Pour the sauce over the chicken. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
Add the Cheese: In the last 30 minutes, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
Melt and Finish: Continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish: Sprinkle fresh basil on top right before serving.

Notes:

Prep Ahead: Get the chicken and sauce ready the night before for an even quicker meal.
Storage: Leftovers keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing: Freeze the chicken without cheese for up to 3 months. Add cheese after reheating.
Variation: Try using chicken thighs for a richer, more tender dish.
Tip: Don’t lift the lid while cooking to keep the heat inside.

Nutrition:

Calories: 385 kcal
Protein: 48g

Serving Suggestions:

This dish is perfect served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with some crusty bread and a green salad. For a low-carb option, try pairing it with roasted vegetables or zucchini noodles for a light, healthy meal.