This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth dish loaded with tender chicken breasts, savory tomato sauce, Italian herbs, and gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this set-it-and-forget-it recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort!
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)
Prepare the Chicken:
Lightly season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place seasoned chicken breasts on top.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using).
Cook:
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
Add the Cheese:
About 10–15 minutes before serving, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken. Cover again and let the cheese melt completely.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Use Thighs Instead: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well and may be even juicier.
Add Veggies: Add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms at the start for extra nutrition.
Make it Creamy: Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese at the end for a creamy tomato twist.
Serving Tip: Delicious over spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or toasted hoagie rolls for cheesy chicken sandwiches.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Keywords: Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken