Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

Featured in Chicken Done Right.

This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is the kind of dinner that makes everyone happy. The chicken breasts cook low and slow in a flavorful mixture of marinara sauce and chicken broth, seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs until they're perfectly tender. Just before serving, we pile on shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese that melts into a gooey, delicious topping. It's one of those dishes that feels like comfort food but doesn't take much effort to make. The slow cooker does all the hard work while you're busy with other things. And the best part? You can make it even more indulgent by stirring in some cream or cream cheese at the end for an extra rich sauce. Top it all with fresh basil, and you've got a dinner that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Soo Ben
Updated on Thu, 23 Jan 2025 23:32:36 GMT
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Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken | mamamiakitchen.com

A slow cooker transforms basic chicken and cheese into an effortless, comforting meal that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian restaurant. The marinara sauce infuses the chicken with flavor while keeping it tender, and the melted cheese creates an irresistible finish.

The first time I made this, my kitchen filled with the aroma of an Italian kitchen. Now it's our favorite way to enjoy restaurant-style chicken at home.

Essential Ingredients Guide

  • Chicken breasts: Choose similar sizes
  • Marinara: High-quality sauce makes a difference
  • Mozzarella: Fresh-grated melts best
  • Chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture
  • Italian seasoning: Fresh herbs enhance flavor

Step-by-Step Method

Prepare and Layer:
Season chicken thoroughly
Arrange in single layer
Pour sauce evenly
Cover completely
Set temperature
Monitor and Add Cheese:
Check at halfway point
Add cheese near end
Let melt completely
Watch for browning
Rest before serving
Finish and Serve:
Check temperature
Garnish with basil
Let rest briefly
Serve over pasta
Provide extra sauce
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Easy Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Recipe | mamamiakitchen.com

Make-Ahead Tips

Prep ingredients night before. Store separately until ready to cook.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with pasta, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables to soak up the sauce.

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Homemade Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken | mamamiakitchen.com

Years of making this dish have taught me that layering ingredients properly and being patient with the cooking time creates the most flavorful results.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but add an extra hour to cooking time and ensure they're fully thawed in the sauce before adding cheese.
→ What can I serve this with?
Pasta, rice, or garlic bread work great. Also delicious with roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
→ Can I use different cheese?
Provolone or Italian blend cheese work well instead of mozzarella. Keep the Parmesan for best flavor.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to prevent cheese from getting tough.
→ Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes, bake covered at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, then add cheese and bake until melted.

Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken

Tender slow-cooked chicken breasts in marinara sauce, topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. An easy family favorite!

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
360 Minutes
Total Time
370 Minutes
By: Sou

Category: Chicken

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 2 teaspoons garlic powder
03 Salt and pepper to taste
04 1 cup chicken broth
05 1 cup marinara sauce
06 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

→ Cheese & Garnish

07 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
08 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
09 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil

Instructions

Step 01

Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place in slow cooker.

Step 02

Combine chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning in a bowl. Pour over chicken.

Step 03

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until chicken is tender.

Step 04

Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese 30 minutes before serving. Cook until melted and bubbly.

Step 05

Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

  1. Can make sauce creamier by adding heavy cream or cream cheese
  2. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners

Tools You'll Need

  • Slow cooker
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (mozzarella, Parmesan cheese)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 350
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~