Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted cheeses. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this easy recipe requires minimal prep time and delivers maximum flavor.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Directions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the chicken.
2. Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
3. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
4. Continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. The prep time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 4-5 hours in the slow cooker. This brings the total time to around 4 hours and 10 minutes to 5 hours and 10 minutes.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
• Veggie Boost: Include sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Different Cheeses: Substitute with other cheese varieties like provolone or gouda for different flavor profiles.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals or heat on the stovetop until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
   It’s recommended to use thawed chicken for even cooking, but if using frozen, increase the cooking time.
2. What can I serve this with?
   It pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
3. Can I cook this on high instead of low?
   Yes, cook on high for about 2-3 hours.
4. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
   Absolutely! Homemade marinara will add a personal touch to the dish.
5. How can I make this dish healthier?
   Use skinless chicken thighs and low-fat cheese for a lighter version.
6. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as the marinara sauce is free of gluten ingredients.
7. Can I add more cheese?
   Yes, feel free to add additional cheese varieties to suit your taste.
8. Can I make this in advance?
   You can prep everything in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate overnight before cooking.
9. What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
   A mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme can be a good substitute.
10. Can I use other meats?
    Yes, this recipe works well with pork or turkey as alternatives to chicken.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a simple yet satisfying meal that everyone will love. With its cheesy topping and flavorful marinara sauce, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Serve it alongside your favorite sides and enjoy a hearty, comforting meal that requires little effort!

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