Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is the perfect dish for anyone looking for an easy, comforting, and cheesy meal that practically cooks itself. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts simmered in a creamy, cheesy sauce with gooey mozzarella cheese melting on top. Whether you’re busy with work, need a quick dinner, or are preparing a meal for a crowd, this slow cooker recipe will save you time without sacrificing flavor.

With its rich, cheesy flavor and melt-in-your-mouth chicken, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. The best part? It requires minimal prep and allows the slow cooker to work its magic while you focus on other things. Serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal that will satisfy your cravings for something rich and flavorful.

This guide will walk you through every step of the process, offer helpful tips, and suggest fun variations to try to elevate your cheesy chicken dish.

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

• Effortless Preparation: With minimal ingredients and just a few minutes of hands-on time, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it. The slow cooker takes care of the rest, cooking the chicken perfectly and infusing it with flavor.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, and seasonings creates a luscious, creamy sauce that coats the chicken beautifully, delivering a rich and satisfying flavor in every bite.
• Perfectly Tender Chicken: Slow cooking ensures that the chicken breasts stay tender and juicy, absorbing all the flavors of the sauce as it simmers for hours.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can serve this dish in multiple ways, from over rice to pasta, or even in wraps. Plus, it’s easy to add vegetables or other ingredients to make it your own.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: This recipe makes plenty of servings, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day. It’s a great option for meal prepping ahead of time or for feeding a crowd.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6 hours (on low setting)
• Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 400-450 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 4-6g
• Protein: 45-50g
• Fiber: 0-1g
• Sugar: 2-4g

Ingredients

For the Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if preferred)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (dry)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or any cream of choice like mushroom)
• 1 cup chicken broth (or water if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
• Optional: 1 cup baby spinach, chopped (for added nutrition)
• Optional: 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) in the bottom of your slow cooker. There’s no need to brown the chicken beforehand, as the slow cooking process will ensure that the chicken becomes tender and flavorful.

2. Make the Sauce

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning mix, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Stir the ingredients together until smooth and fully blended. If you like a thicker sauce, you can reduce the chicken broth or add extra cream cheese. For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of sour cream or heavy cream.

Next, add the melted butter and minced garlic to the mixture, stirring until everything is well combined. The butter will add a rich, savory flavor, while the garlic enhances the overall aroma of the dish. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper as needed.

3. Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken

Pour the prepared cheesy sauce over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring that the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce. You can use a spoon to spread the sauce over the chicken if needed, making sure all the chicken is submerged in the cheesy goodness.

If you’re adding spinach for extra nutrition, sprinkle it over the top of the chicken before covering the slow cooker. The spinach will cook down and blend into the sauce, adding a burst of color and nutrients.

4. Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the chicken on the low setting for 6 hours. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken becomes incredibly tender and that the flavors of the sauce meld together perfectly.

If you’re short on time, you can cook the chicken on the high setting for 3-4 hours, but slow cooking on low will give the best results in terms of tenderness and flavor.

5. Shred the Chicken

After the cooking time is complete, check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It should be incredibly tender, and you should be able to shred it easily with two forks. Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker or remove it and shred it on a cutting board, then return it to the sauce.

Once shredded, stir the chicken back into the sauce to ensure it’s well coated. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cooks, creating a rich and creamy texture that’s perfect for spooning over rice or pasta.

6. Serve and Garnish

Once the chicken is shredded and mixed into the creamy sauce, it’s ready to serve. Spoon the cheesy chicken over your preferred base, such as rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it in wraps or tortillas for a fun twist.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. The herb adds a delightful contrast to the rich and cheesy sauce. For extra heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes on top.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

• Use Thighs for Extra Flavor: While chicken breasts are the traditional choice, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can add extra flavor and juiciness to the dish. The extra fat in the thighs will help keep the chicken moist during the slow cooking process.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of chicken broth or cream of chicken soup. Alternatively, if the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
• Add Vegetables: To make this dish more of a complete meal, consider adding vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini to the slow cooker. Simply chop them into small pieces and add them along with the chicken before cooking.
• Cook on Low for Best Results: Slow cooking on low ensures that the chicken becomes incredibly tender and absorbs the full flavor of the sauce. If you choose to cook on high, check the chicken earlier to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
• Serve with a Side: This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a side salad for a well-rounded meal.

Variations of Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

• Spinach and Artichoke Cheesy Chicken: For a fun twist on this dish, add artichoke hearts and spinach to the sauce mixture. The artichokes will add an earthy, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Buffalo Cheesy Chicken: For those who enjoy a little heat, stir in ¼ cup of buffalo wing sauce into the cheesy sauce mixture before cooking. This variation gives the dish a tangy and spicy kick.
• Italian Cheesy Chicken: Add Italian seasonings like basil, oregano, and thyme to the sauce for a more Italian-inspired flavor. You could also top the dish with a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese before serving.
• Cheesy Chicken with Mushrooms: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the chicken. The mushrooms will cook down and release their flavor into the sauce, adding an earthy depth to the dish.
• Cheesy Chicken Alfredo: For a creamy Alfredo version, add a bit of heavy cream and extra Parmesan cheese to the sauce mixture. Serve the chicken over pasta to create a cheesy, indulgent dish that tastes like a restaurant-quality Alfredo.

Storage and Shelf Life

This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is perfect for leftovers. After it has cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The creamy sauce will keep the chicken moist, and the flavors will continue to meld together, making the leftovers just as delicious the next day.

For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

Pair this cheesy chicken with these complementary side dishes for a well-rounded meal:

• Rice or Pasta: Serve the cheesy chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or pasta. The creamy sauce will soak into the rice or pasta, making each bite rich and flavorful.
• Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery piece of garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the cheesy sauce, adding a satisfying crunch to the meal.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lighten up the dish by pairing it with a side of steamed green beans, broccoli, or asparagus. The vegetables will add freshness and texture to balance the creamy chicken.
• Simple Salad: A side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheesy chicken.
• Mashed Potatoes: For an indulgent side, serve the cheesy chicken over mashed potatoes. The potatoes will soak up the creamy sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.

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Conclusion

Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is an easy, comforting dish that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. The tender chicken, creamy mozzarella sauce, and gooey cheese make this a meal that the whole family will love. Whether served over rice, pasta, or with a side of garlic bread, this dish is perfect for any occasion. With its rich, cheesy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give this simple and delicious slow cooker recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!