If you’re looking for a delicious, cheesy, and effortless meal, this Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a must-try! It’s a comforting dish packed with Italian flavors, melty cheese, and tender chicken—perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or meal prepping. With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing all the work, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish without any hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Just season, pour, and let your slow cooker handle the rest.
• Rich Italian Flavors: A perfect blend of marinara, mozzarella, Parmesan, and aromatic herbs.
• Minimal Ingredients: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love the cheesy goodness of this dish!
• Great for Meal Prep: Store leftovers for a quick and tasty meal later in the week.

Ingredients Needed

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 heat)
• Extra garlic cloves (for more depth of flavor)
• Fresh oregano (for an herby kick)
• Sun-dried tomatoes (for a hint of sweetness and tang)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.

2. Add to Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker in a single layer.

3. Make the Sauce

In a bowl, mix chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning until well combined.

4. Cook Low and Slow

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.

5. Add the Cheese

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Cover and let it melt into gooey, cheesy perfection.

6. Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh basil and serve warm. Enjoy with your favorite side dish!

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

This dish is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Over Pasta: Serve with spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne to soak up all the rich sauce.
• With Garlic Bread: A side of crispy, buttery garlic bread makes this meal even more indulgent.
• On a Bed of Rice: White, brown, or cauliflower rice pairs beautifully with this dish.
• With Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus adds a healthy touch.
• In a Sandwich: Shred the chicken and serve it in a toasted hoagie roll for a cheesy chicken sub.

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent melting. Freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan will give you the best melt and flavor.

2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Slow cookers are forgiving, but leaving the chicken for too long can make it dry. Stick to the recommended cooking times for the best results.

3. Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrition

Stir in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for added texture and nutrients.

4. Thicken the Sauce if Needed

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it into the slow cooker 30 minutes before serving.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (without the cheese topping). Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tips

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add even more juiciness to the dish.

2. Can I Make This Dish in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then do a quick release. Add the cheese and let it melt before serving.

3. Can I Use a Different Cheese?

Of course! Try provolone, cheddar, gouda, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.

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