Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

Name: Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup marinara sauce; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil for garnish

Published: June 24, 2025

by Sofia

Pinterest Facebook WhatsApp X Yummly

Tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara and melty mozzarella, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker! Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. This dish combines rich flavors and a creamy texture, making it a crowd-pleaser. With minimal prep and hands-free cooking, you can enjoy a delicious Italian-inspired meal without the fuss.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!Pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Simply season, place in the slow cooker, and let it do the work!
Flavorful Meal: The combination of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella brings a comforting taste to your table.
Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for different dining experiences.
Family-Friendly: Kids love cheesy dishes, making this recipe a hit for family dinners.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful dish, you will need some essential kitchen tools. These items help streamline the cooking process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: The star of this recipe, it allows for low-and-slow cooking that tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining sauces and seasonings without mess.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

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)

Extras

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

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is evenly coated to enhance flavor.

Step 2: Add Chicken to Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned chicken breasts directly into your slow cooker.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well mixed.

Step 4: Pour Sauce Over Chicken

Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. This will infuse moisture and flavor during cooking.

Step 5: Cook Your Dish

Cover the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, allowing time for the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Add Cheese Toppings

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan over the chicken. Cover again until melted.

Step 7: Final Touches Before Serving

Once cheese is bubbly and melted to your liking, garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

Serving Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, making it easy to pair with various sides and garnishes.

With Pasta

Spaghetti or Fettuccine: Serve the cheesy chicken over a bed of pasta for a classic Italian meal.
Pasta Salad: Offer a cold pasta salad on the side for a refreshing contrast.

With Rice

White Rice: A simple side of fluffy white rice will soak up the delicious sauce.
Risotto: For a more decadent option, serve with creamy risotto.

With Vegetables

Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every bit of sauce; serve warm and crispy.
Steamed Broccoli: A healthy green option that pairs well with the rich flavors of the chicken.

As a Sandwich

Submarine Roll: Pile the cheesy chicken onto a crusty roll for a delightful sandwich.
Garlic Bread Toast: Use garlic bread as a base for an open-faced sandwich topped with chicken.

With Salads

Caesar Salad: The crisp lettuce and creamy dressing complement the rich chicken perfectly.
Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil enhance the Italian flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, keep these tips in mind. They will help you create a flavorful and satisfying meal every time.

Boldly Season Your Chicken: Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. These spices make a big difference in flavor.
Use Quality Marinara Sauce: Choose a high-quality marinara sauce to enhance the overall taste of your dish.
Adjust Cooking Time Carefully: Keep an eye on cooking times; overcooking can dry out the chicken.
Add Fresh Herbs at the End: Sprinkle fresh basil or oregano just before serving for bright, aromatic flavors.
Experiment with Cheese Variations: Try adding different cheeses like provolone or gouda for unique twists.
Include Extra Ingredients: Add sun-dried tomatoes or olives in the last hour for added depth and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

Pairing your Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken with complementary sides can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider:

Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for dipping into sauce.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provide great flavor and texture.
Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa is a healthy grain option that pairs well with this dish.
Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa add both visual appeal and taste.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make an indulgent side that complements cheesy dishes well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use salt, pepper, and garlic powder generously.
Overcrowding the slow cooker: If you pack too much chicken into the slow cooker, it won’t cook evenly. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.
Skipping the final cheese layer: Adding mozzarella and Parmesan in the last 30 minutes is crucial for that gooey texture. Don’t forget this step!
Using low-quality marinara sauce: The sauce significantly impacts flavor. Opt for a high-quality marinara for a richer taste.
Not checking doneness: Cooking times can vary. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

item Store leftover Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken in an airtight container.
item It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

item You can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers.
item It lasts up to 3 months when frozen.

Reheating Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until heated through.
Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a pan, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?

Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a comforting dish made with tender chicken breasts, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese all cooked in a slow cooker.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by about an hour on LOW or 30 minutes on HIGH.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it on crusty bread as a sandwich.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. You could also try different cheeses such as provolone or cheddar for varied flavors.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is not just easy but also incredibly versatile. This recipe allows you to enjoy comforting flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Experiment with different ingredients and make it your own!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!