Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

If you’re a fan of easy, comforting, and cheesy meals (who isn’t, right?), then you’re going to love this Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken. Imagine this: juicy chicken breasts slow-cooked to perfection, smothered in a luscious tomato sauce, and then topped with a gooey layer of melted mozzarella. It’s like the ultimate cozy dinner that practically cooks itself while you get to relax. Trust me, this is one of those meals that’ll make your kitchen smell incredible without you having to do much at all.

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

This recipe isn’t just a time-saver; it’s packed with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re busy during the week or just in the mood for something that feels like a warm hug, this dish has you covered. Here’s why it’s a go-to in our house:

• Super Easy: The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. Just pop everything in and let it work its magic. You’ll have a delicious meal with minimal effort.
• Perfectly Cheesy: Who can resist that gooey layer of melted mozzarella? It’s the kind of dish that makes you smile with every bite.
• Versatile: This dish goes with just about anything. Serve it over pasta, with mashed potatoes, or alongside roasted veggies for a meal everyone will love.
• Kid-Friendly: Cheese, chicken, and tomato sauce? It’s a combo that works every time, making this a hit for both kids and adults.
• Prep and Forget: The best part? You can throw everything in the slow cooker and forget about it until it’s time to eat. It’s simple and stress-free!

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this cheesy, savory dish:

Chicken Breasts: The base of the dish. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook up juicy and tender in the slow cooker, absorbing all the flavors from the sauce and cheese.

Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the show. This melty, gooey cheese creates the perfect cheesy topping. Go for the fresh mozzarella for that extra indulgent texture.

Tomato Sauce: A simple but essential ingredient to keep things flavorful and saucy. It adds depth and a tangy base for the chicken to cook in.

Parmesan Cheese: Just a little sprinkle of Parmesan to elevate the flavor and give the dish an extra layer of cheesy goodness.

Garlic: Fresh garlic brings that irresistible aroma to the dish. It adds a savory depth that balances the sweetness of the tomato sauce.

Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, which really tie everything together and give the dish that Italian flair.

Olive Oil: To sauté the garlic and add richness to the dish.

Salt and Pepper: To season everything to perfection.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get to the good stuff—cooking this cheesy masterpiece!

Sauté Garlic:

Start by heating some olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté it until it’s fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. This step really brings out the flavors, so don’t skip it!

Layer the Slow Cooker:

Now, place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the sautéed garlic over them, followed by the tomato sauce. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. You can give it a little stir to make sure everything is nicely coated.

Slow Cook the Chicken:

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The chicken should be easily shredded with a fork when it’s done.

Add the Mozzarella:

Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the slow cooker again and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the cheesy mozzarella chicken hot, spooning some of that delicious tomato sauce over the top. You can pair it with pasta, rice, or even a side of garlic bread. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 400

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4–6 hours (slow cooker)
Total Time: 4–6 hours 10 minutes

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your meal:

• Pasta: Serve over spaghetti, penne, or any of your favorite pasta types. It’s a match made in heaven!
• Garlic Bread: Get some crispy, buttery garlic bread on the side to dip in that rich tomato sauce.
• Rice: For a simple side, serve it with fluffy white rice or even a creamy risotto for extra comfort.
• Steamed Vegetables: Pair it with a light veggie side like steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus to balance out the richness of the dish.
• As a Wrap: If you’re looking for a fun twist, shred the chicken and wrap it in a tortilla for a cheesy, chicken wrap that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Additional Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:

• Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in a bit of cornstarch mixed with water at the end of the cooking time.
• Prep the Chicken: If you’re short on time, you can also sear the chicken breasts before adding them to the slow cooker. It adds a little extra flavor, though it’s totally optional.
• Add Veggies: For a more wholesome meal, toss in some vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms when adding the sauce.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove for a quick meal.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A1: Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative. They’ll be a bit juicier and even more tender after slow cooking.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Definitely! You can assemble everything the night before and store it in the fridge, then just pop it in the slow cooker the next day.

Q3: Can I freeze this dish?
A3: Yes! After cooking, let it cool, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q5: Can I use a different cheese?
A5: Absolutely! If you prefer cheddar, provolone, or any other melty cheese, feel free to swap it in.

Q6: Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
A6: Yes, you can! Just make sure to add heartier vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach about an hour before the chicken is done.

Q7: How long can I keep this in the slow cooker?
A7: For the best results, cook the chicken on low for 4–6 hours. Cooking longer than that can make the chicken dry.

Q8: Can I double the recipe?
A8: Yes, just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Q9: Can I use marinara sauce instead of plain tomato sauce?
A9: Yes, marinara sauce will add a nice flavor, especially if you love extra herbs and spices.

Q10: Can I make this without a slow cooker?
A10: Yes! You can cook the chicken in a Dutch oven or large pan on the stove. Simply simmer the chicken in the tomato sauce until it’s fully cooked, then top with mozzarella and let it melt.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, and the best part is that it’s effortless to make! With its rich flavors, tender chicken, and gooey mozzarella, it’s a dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a cozy night in, this meal is sure to impress. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite in your recipe rotation!

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