Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both comforting and easy to prepare, look no further than Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that combines the richness of melted mozzarella cheese with the tender juiciness of chicken, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. The best part? You can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld together while you go about your day. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or looking for a dish to impress guests, this cheesy chicken recipe is an excellent choice. The gooey mozzarella, coupled with the savory blend of herbs and spices, creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s perfect for pairing with pasta, rice, or a simple side salad. Plus, it’s easy to customize to your taste preferences—add extra garlic, throw in some vegetables, or switch up the cheese. This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken will become a go-to recipe for effortless, flavorful meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hands-Off Cooking

The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to prepare a delicious, cheesy meal with minimal effort. Set it in the morning and have a hot, ready meal waiting for you in the evening.

2. Cheese Lover’s Dream

With gooey, melted mozzarella cheese on top, this dish is an absolute treat for cheese lovers. The cheese adds a creamy, rich texture that makes each bite even more irresistible.

3. Versatile and Customizable

This recipe is easily adaptable. You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to enhance the dish. You can also adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences.

4. Family-Friendly

With its comforting flavors and cheesy goodness, this dish is a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s an easy way to please even the pickiest eaters.

5. Leftover Friendly

This recipe makes great leftovers! You can enjoy it the next day, or even repurpose it into sandwiches, wraps, or salads for a new spin on the dish.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts or thighs
• Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• Cream cheese
• Garlic (minced)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Chicken broth or stock
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

• Vegetable Add-ins: Add in vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
• Use Chicken Thighs: For a richer, juicier version, use bone-in chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
• Add Spices: For an extra kick, add crushed red pepper flakes, paprika, or cayenne pepper.
• Different Cheese: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Version: Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice to make the dish low-carb.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. For extra flavor, drizzle with olive oil.

Step 2: Add to the Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth or stock to ensure the chicken remains moist and tender as it cooks.

Step 3: Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, minced garlic, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Spoon the mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 5: Add Mozzarella Cheese

Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each piece. Cover and let it melt for about 5-10 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley, and if desired, sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top. Serve over pasta, rice, or alongside a fresh salad.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best results, as they cook evenly and remain juicy.
• Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be tender and easy to shred or cut with a fork.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of chicken broth or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking.
• If you want extra cheesy goodness, add a bit more mozzarella or even a sprinkle of parmesan before serving.
• To add some extra depth, sauté the garlic in olive oil before adding it to the slow cooker.

How to Serve

Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken over a bed of pasta or rice for a hearty meal. You can also pair it with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. For a low-carb version, try serving it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. It’s also great served as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep it moist.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well! To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little broth or water to maintain its creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it on low for about 7-8 hours to ensure it’s cooked through.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use cheddar, gouda, or provolone for a different cheese flavor.

3. Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker?

Yes, if you’re in a rush, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours instead of the 6-7 hours on low.

4. Can I make this without cream cheese?

If you prefer, you can leave out the cream cheese and use a bit more mozzarella cheese or heavy cream to achieve a creamy consistency.

5. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes! You can add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms directly to the slow cooker for extra flavor and texture.

6. What if I want a thicker sauce?

To thicken the sauce, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water or reduce the amount of chicken broth during cooking.

7. How do I make the chicken more flavorful?

Add more garlic, herbs, or spices like paprika, cayenne, or even lemon zest for added depth of flavor.

8. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is easy to shred or cut with a fork.

9. Can I serve this with rice or pasta?

Yes! It pairs perfectly with both rice and pasta. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes or a simple green salad for a lighter option.

10. Can I make this in the oven instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, then add the mozzarella cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes to melt.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is the epitome of comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. This easy-to-make recipe takes minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days when you want a delicious dinner without the hassle. The combination of tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and a creamy sauce will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or veggies, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Print