Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Simply season the chicken, mix the sauce, and let the slow cooker do the work.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of cream cheese and mozzarella creates a luscious sauce that envelops the chicken.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pairs well with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables, making it adaptable to your preferences.
- Family-Friendly: Its mild flavors and creamy texture are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth. Mix until smooth.
- Assemble in Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the cream cheese mixture over them, ensuring even coverage.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Add Mozzarella: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the chicken. Cover and allow the cheese to melt.
- Optional Browning: For a golden top, transfer the chicken to an oven-safe dish and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is lightly browned.
- Serve: Once the cheese is melted (and browned, if desired), serve hot alongside your preferred side dishes.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Variations
- Tomato Addition: Incorporate diced tomatoes or marinara sauce for a tangy twist.
- Herb Enhancements: Add fresh basil or parsley for extra freshness.
- Spicy Kick: Include red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Vegetable Mix: Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. For oven reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and may offer a juicier result.
Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely, adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutritional value.
Can I prepare this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can bake it in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, remove the chicken after cooking and stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water. Let it cook on high until the sauce thickens, then return the chicken to the slow cooker.
What sides pair well with this dish?
It pairs well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, place the cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery when reheated?
Reheat gently at a lower temperature to prevent the cheese from overcooking and becoming rubbery.
Is it necessary to brown the chicken before placing it in the slow cooker?
Browning the chicken is optional. It can add extra flavor but is not required for this recipe.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but shredding fresh mozzarella may result in better melting and texture.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a versatile and comforting meal that’s simple to prepare. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a family favorite, suitable for any night of the week. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delicious results!
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 7 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a creamy and comforting dish made with tender chicken breasts smothered in a luscious mozzarella and cream cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Assemble in Slow Cooker: Lay seasoned chicken in the slow cooker and pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over it.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Add Mozzarella: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the chicken 30 minutes before serving. Cover to allow the cheese to melt.
- Optional Browning: For a golden top, broil the chicken in an oven-safe dish for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Serve hot with your choice of side dishes.
Notes
- For a tangy twist, add diced tomatoes or marinara sauce.
- Incorporate vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- To thicken the sauce, use a cornstarch slurry and cook on high after removing the chicken.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
