Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

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Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken: Savory, Saucy, and Melt-in-Your-Mouth Good

Tender chicken simmered in marinara and topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan—your new favorite slow cooker dinner

Introduction: A Set-It-and-Forget-It Italian Classic

There’s something magical about slow cooker meals. You toss in a few ingredients, walk away, and come back to a dish that tastes like you’ve been cooking all day. This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is one of those recipes—simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

With juicy chicken breasts simmered in a savory marinara broth and topped with gooey mozzarella and nutty Parmesan, it’s a comfort food dream. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, this dish is guaranteed to become a weeknight favorite.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish so delicious:

Protein:

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (4)
    Lean and tender—perfect for soaking up the sauce.

Optional: Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

Seasoning:

  • Garlic powder (2 tsp)
    Adds savory depth and aroma.
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
    Essential for balancing and boosting flavor.
  • Italian seasoning (2 tsp)
    A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme—classic Italian flavor.

Tip: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Sauce Base:

  • Chicken broth (1 cup)
    Adds moisture and helps cook the chicken evenly.
  • Marinara sauce (1 cup)
    Rich and tomatoey—forms the flavorful base of the dish.

Optional: Use homemade marinara or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.

Cheese Topping:

  • Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup)
    Melts beautifully and adds creamy richness.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup)
    Adds nutty, salty flavor and a golden finish.

Optional: Use provolone or fontina for a twist.

Equipment Needed

  • Slow cooker
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Tongs or spoon
  • Meat thermometer (optional)

Tip: Use a programmable slow cooker for perfect timing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat chicken breasts dry.

Sprinkle with:

  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Place chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Tip: Season both sides for even flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl:

  • Combine 1 cup chicken broth, 1 cup marinara sauce, and 2 tsp Italian seasoning.

Pour over chicken in the slow cooker.

Optional: Add sliced onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.

Step 3: Cook

Cover and cook:

  • Low for 6 hours
  • High for 3 hours

Chicken should be tender and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Tip: Don’t overcook—check for doneness around the 5-hour mark on low.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Once chicken is cooked:

  • Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup grated Parmesan over the top.

Cover and let sit for 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Optional: Broil briefly for a golden top (transfer to oven-safe dish).

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot with:

  • Pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
  • Rice or quinoa
  • Garlic bread
  • Steamed vegetables

Garnish with:

  • Extra Parmesan
  • Fresh basil or parsley

Yields:

  • 4 servings

Presentation Tip: Serve in shallow bowls with sauce spooned over the top.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Family gatherings
  • Meal prep
  • Cozy comfort food cravings

Pair with:

  • Caesar salad
  • Roasted broccoli
  • Red wine or sparkling water

Tip: Double the recipe for leftovers or freezing.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Mushroom Mozzarella Chicken

Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Use Alfredo sauce instead of marinara and add extra garlic.

Spicy Chicken

Add crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños.

Triple Cheese

Mix mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan.

Vegetarian Version

Use plant-based chicken and veggie broth.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble ingredients in slow cooker insert and refrigerate overnight.
  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently.

Tip: Reheat covered in oven or microwave with a splash of broth.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 4)

  • Calories: ~320
  • Protein: ~35g
  • Carbohydrates: ~8g
  • Fat: ~16g
  • Sugar: ~4g
  • Sodium: ~600mg
  • Fiber: ~1g

This dish is:

  • Cheesy and savory
  • Easy to make
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, it’s guaranteed to satisfy and impress.

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