The aroma of Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm, cheesy embrace that feels like a hug from your grandma. Imagine tender chicken smothered in a gooey blanket of mozzarella, teasing your taste buds with hints of garlic and herbs. BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls This mouthwatering dish is perfect for cozy dinners or lazy weekends when you want something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen.
Let’s face it; who doesn’t love a meal that practically cooks itself? As the chicken gently simmers away, you can kick back, relax, and pretend you’re on a culinary vacation. Memories of family gatherings flood back, where laughter fills the room and everyone dives into this cheesy delight with gleeful abandon. Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Trust me, once you whip up this dish, it will become your go-to recipe for every occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is unbelievably easy to prepare, giving you more time to relax.
- Its rich flavor profile makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- The melty cheese creates an eye-catching presentation that will impress any dinner guest.
- This dish is versatile enough to pair with pasta, rice, or even veggies.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
For more inspiration, check out this Flavorful Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust according to how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves to ensure maximum flavor in your dish.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs will elevate your chicken’s flavor profile.
- Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and richness that pairs perfectly with melted mozzarella.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Because what’s better than gooey cheese? More gooey cheese!
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while keeping the chicken moist.
For the Sauce:
- Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle on top for an additional layer of cheesy goodness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. They should form a lovely bed for all that cheesy goodness.
Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients
Sprinkle minced garlic and Italian seasoning over the chicken. Don’t be shy—this is where the magic starts to happen!
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together cream cheese and chicken broth until smooth. Pour this luscious concoction over the chicken in your slow cooker.
Step 4: Let It Cook
Cover and set your slow cooker on low for about six hours or high for three hours. Go ahead and binge-watch your favorite show while it does its thing.
Step 5: Add Mozzarella
About thirty minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top. Close the lid again and let it melt into gooey perfection.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is cooked through and bubbling with joy, scoop onto plates and drizzle with Parmesan cheese for that extra zing! Pair it with pasta or crusty bread your choice!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. You’re now ready to feast like royalty!
And there you have it a delightful Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken that’s guaranteed to become a household favorite! Whether it’s game night or family dinner time, this comforting dish will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds). Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is not just about flavor; it’s about effortless cooking.
- You can easily adjust ingredients based on your pantry.
- The gooey cheese and tender chicken create an irresistible dish that steals the show at dinner time.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken in a pan first to lock in flavor, then transfer it to the slow cooker. While the chicken cooks, prepare your cheesy sauce separately for optimal creaminess and taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out mozzarella for provolone or add some sautéed mushrooms for extra depth. A dash of red pepper flakes could spice things up if you’re feeling adventurous!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, pop it in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring the cheese remains melty.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- – Searing your chicken before placing it in the slow cooker enhances its flavor significantly, so don’t skip this step.
– Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness without sacrificing moisture.
– If using frozen chicken, increase cooking time by one to two hours for perfect tenderness.
Sometimes while cooking this Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, I think back to that dinner party where my friends literally asked for seconds no, thirds! It was a hit and made me feel like a culinary genius! For more inspiration, check out this Perfect Slow Cooker Pot Roast recipe.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?
To prepare Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken, gather boneless chicken breasts, shredded mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. This combination creates a creamy and cheesy sauce that elevates the dish. Make sure to have a slow cooker ready to ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly and remains tender. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor as well, but they are optional.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?
Cooking Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken typically takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The exact time may vary depending on your slow cooker’s efficiency and the thickness of your chicken breasts. It’s crucial to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat. Don’t rush the process; slow cooking brings out the best flavors in this delightful dish.
Can I make Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken ahead of time by assembling all the ingredients in your slow cooker insert and storing it in the refrigerator overnight. Just remember to start cooking it in the morning or whenever you’re ready. This meal is perfect for meal prep as it tastes even better after sitting for a while, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Reheating leftovers is simple; just warm them up in the microwave or on the stovetop.
What should I serve with Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken?
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it over cooked pasta or rice for a comforting meal. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad can provide balance and add nutrition. For a low-carb option, serve it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. You can also use crusty bread to soak up the delicious cheesy sauce. These combinations create a satisfying plate that everyone will enjoy.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken:
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a simple yet delicious dish that combines tender chicken with rich mozzarella flavor. With minimal prep time, this recipe allows you to create a comforting meal suitable for any night of the week. Parmesan Chicken in Air Fryer The key points include using fresh ingredients and adjusting cooking times based on your slow cooker settings. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with sides like pasta or vegetables, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. This effortless recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich blend of mozzarella and cream cheese, resulting in a gooey, cheesy masterpiece. With minimal prep time and the ability to let your slow cooker do the work, you’ll be able to relax while this delicious meal cooks itself. Serve it with pasta or crusty bread to soak up the irresistible sauce—it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle minced garlic and Italian seasoning over the chicken.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese and chicken broth until smooth; pour over chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top; cover to melt.
- Serve with a drizzle of Parmesan cheese and your choice of side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider searing the chicken before placing it in the slow cooker. You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or add sautéed mushrooms for extra depth. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
