Description
Comforting slow cooker cheesy mozzarella chicken brings Italian-inspired magic to dinner tables with minimal effort. Creamy, cheesy goodness combines tender chicken and rich marinara, creating an irresistible meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasonings and Herbs:
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids and Cheese:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Thoroughly coat chicken breasts with a blend of garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, ensuring even seasoning on all surfaces.
- Transfer seasoned chicken into the slow cooker, arranging pieces in a single layer for uniform cooking.
- Whisk together chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning in a separate mixing bowl, creating a robust cooking liquid.
- Gently pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is partially submerged.
- Set slow cooker to low temperature and cook for 6 hours, or alternatively use high setting for 3 hours, until chicken becomes fork-tender and easily pulls apart.
- Approximately 30 minutes before serving, generously distribute shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses across the chicken’s surface.
- Return lid to slow cooker and continue cooking until cheese completely melts and develops a golden, bubbly texture.
- Remove chicken from slow cooker and delicately garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves for a vibrant, aromatic finish.
- Serve immediately while cheese remains warm and gooey, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Notes
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs to keep meat juicier and more flavorful during slow cooking.
- Consider reducing broth amount if you prefer thicker sauce consistency.
- Use low-sodium broth and marinara to control salt levels for health-conscious individuals.
- Replace mozzarella and Parmesan with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives for lactose-intolerant diners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg