Today we’ll dive into a comforting classic with a twist—the Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken. This dish merges the simplicity of slow cooking with the rich flavors of mozzarella cheese, resulting in a succulent and cheesy delight. The beauty of using a slow cooker is how it tenderizes the chicken, allowing it to absorb the flavors over several hours, making this dish not only delicious but also incredibly tender. It’s an ideal recipe for busy days when you want a hearty meal waiting for you at home.
The creamy and cheesy nature of this dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a wholesome meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or steamed broccoli. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, garlic mashed potatoes or a loaf of crusty bread are perfect for soaking up the sauce. A simple pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine would also complement the chicken beautifully, making for a satisfying meal.
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Servings: 4
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
Directions
1. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
3. In a bowl, mix the chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the chicken.
6. Cover and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Variations & Tips
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs. For a lighter version, you can use low-fat cheeses and increase the proportion of marinara sauce to create a saucier dish without added calories. For those who love a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce can provide a spicy kick. To make this dish gluten-free, ensure your marinara sauce and chicken broth are certified gluten-free. You can also vary the herbs, using a mix of parsley, oregano, or thyme for different flavor profiles.