If you’re looking for a simple, delicious, and comforting dish that requires minimal prep but delivers maximum flavor, this Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is your new go-to recipe. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave a wholesome, home-cooked meal without the fuss. Think of juicy chicken breasts slow-cooked in a rich marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese—a mouthwatering combination that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or planning a cozy dinner for two, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Plus, it’s an excellent option for meal prep, reheats beautifully, and pairs well with a variety of sides. Let’s dive into this comforting, cheesy goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, this dish is perfect for even the busiest days.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of juicy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey, melted cheese is universally loved—perfect for picky eaters.
Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, or a side of veggies. It’s also great for sandwiches or as a pizza topping.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for an easy meal during the week.
Healthy Comfort Food: Lean chicken breasts, tomato-based sauce, and a moderate amount of cheese make this a balanced, comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Choose medium-sized chicken breasts for even cooking.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder – Adds a warm, savory flavor to the chicken.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the chicken.
- 1 cup chicken broth – Keeps the chicken moist and infuses it with flavor during slow cooking.
- 1 cup marinara sauce – Choose a good-quality sauce or make your own for the best flavor.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully over the chicken, adding creamy texture.
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Provides a nutty, salty kick that complements the mozzarella.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil for garnish – Adds a pop of color and fresh, fragrant flavor.
Ingredient Tips
Chicken Breasts: Make sure the chicken breasts are of similar size to ensure even cooking. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Marinara Sauce: Opt for a low-sugar, high-quality marinara sauce to keep the dish healthy. You can also use homemade marinara if you have some on hand.
Cheese: For the best melting effect, use freshly shredded mozzarella. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can mix dried oregano, basil, and thyme in equal parts to create your own blend.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This step ensures that the chicken is flavorful right from the start. Massage the seasoning into the chicken for even coverage.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. This mixture will create a rich and flavorful base for the chicken. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker, making sure each piece is covered.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Chicken
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. The low and slow method will make the chicken incredibly tender, while the high setting will achieve the same in half the time.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the chicken. Cover the slow cooker again and let it cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This step ensures a perfectly gooey and cheesy topping.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese has melted, turn off the slow cooker and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Serve the cheesy mozzarella chicken hot with your favorite side dishes. See below for some delicious serving suggestions!
Serving Suggestions
Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of your favorite pasta, like spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine. The sauce pairs wonderfully with noodles.
Rice: A side of fluffy white or brown rice will soak up the delicious sauce.
Vegetables: Pair with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or green beans for a balanced meal.
Garlic Bread: Savor the dish with a slice of warm, crusty garlic bread to mop up the sauce and melted cheese.
Salad: Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cheese.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Meal Prep: Make a larger batch and portion it into individual servings for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Creamy Version: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or cream cheese before adding the cheese topping for a richer, creamier sauce.
Vegetable Boost: Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the slow cooker for extra veggies.
Herb Swaps: Substitute fresh oregano or parsley for basil, or use a combination of herbs for different flavor profiles.
Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to make it keto-friendly.
Final Note
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that fits seamlessly into your weekly meal plan. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and delicious flavors make it a must-try. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and find your perfect combination. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
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
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix the chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the chicken.
- Cover and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
