Description
Succulent slow cooker mozzarella chicken brings Italian-inspired comfort straight to kitchen tables. Creamy cheese and tender chicken merge in a delightful melody of flavors that comfort and satisfy you completely.
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 (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquids and Cheeses:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Generously coat chicken breasts with a blend of aromatic garlic powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- Transfer the seasoned chicken into the slow cooker, arranging pieces in a single layer for uniform cooking.
- Create a flavorful liquid base by whisking together robust chicken broth, rich marinara sauce, and fragrant Italian seasoning in a mixing bowl.
- Cascade the combined sauce mixture over the chicken, making certain each piece is thoroughly coated and nestled in the liquid.
- Secure the slow cooker lid and allow the chicken to gently simmer on low temperature for 5-6 hours or on high temperature for 3 hours, until meat becomes exceptionally tender and easily pulls apart.
- During the final 20-25 minutes of cooking, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses across the chicken’s surface.
- Replace the lid and continue cooking until the cheese melts completely, transforming into a golden, bubbling blanket.
- Remove from heat and delicately garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves, adding a vibrant, herbaceous finish to the dish.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle and cheese to set slightly.
Notes
- Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control salt intake and create a healthier version of this comforting dish.
- Experiment with different marinara sauces to customize the flavor profile, from classic to spicy or herb-infused varieties.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the marinara sauce is certified gluten-free and use corn starch instead of traditional thickeners if needed.
- Transform leftovers into a delicious chicken sandwich or pasta topping by shredding the tender meat and mixing with the cheesy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg