Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is the ultimate comfort meal that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich, flavorful tomato sauce and melted, gooey cheese. This dish is incredibly easy to prepare—just add the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the work for you. The result is perfectly cooked chicken infused with Italian-inspired herbs and spices, topped with a cheesy, bubbly crust that’s sure to please any crowd.

Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal hands-on time while delivering maximum flavor. The combination of marinara sauce, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a savory base, and the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses add creamy, melty indulgence. Whether you want a cozy family dinner or a meal that doubles as leftovers for the week, this dish fits the bill. Optional add-ins like red pepper flakes or sun-dried tomatoes can customize the heat and texture, making it versatile and adaptable to your preferences.

Serve this cheesy chicken with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a satisfying and easy dinner everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Cooking – Just combine ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work.
Tender, Juicy Chicken – Slow cooking locks in moisture and flavor perfectly.
Rich, Cheesy Topping – Melted mozzarella and Parmesan make every bite irresistible.

Versatile Flavor Profile – Classic Italian seasoning with optional add-ins to customize.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Keeps well and reheats beautifully for leftovers.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

Boneless skinless chicken breasts

Garlic powder
Salt and pepper
Chicken broth

Marinara sauce
Italian seasoning

For the Topping

Shredded mozzarella cheese

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil, chopped

Optional Add-ins

Red pepper flakes

Extra garlic cloves
Fresh oregano
Sun-dried tomatoes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with thick slices of eggplant or zucchini.
Different Cheese: Try provolone or fontina instead of mozzarella for a different melt.

Add Veggies: Include sliced mushrooms or bell peppers in the slow cooker.
Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and sauce to control salt levels.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker

Place chicken in the slow cooker. Pour chicken broth and marinara sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle Italian seasoning evenly on top. Add any optional ingredients like extra garlic or sun-dried tomatoes if desired.

Step 3: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Add Cheese Topping

About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken. Cover and cook until the cheese melts and bubbles.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use chicken breasts of even thickness for uniform cooking.
Avoid opening the slow cooker lid too often to maintain temperature.

If the sauce is too thin, remove the chicken and simmer sauce on high to thicken before adding cheese.
Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve their bright flavor.
For a more intense garlic flavor, add extra minced garlic cloves.

How to Serve

Serve this cheesy mozzarella chicken over cooked pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or a bed of steamed rice. Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A crusty garlic bread also complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze cooked chicken and sauce separately or together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Cover with foil in the oven to prevent cheese from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, but you can use frozen if you increase the cooking time.

2. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?

Yes, cook chicken in a skillet, then simmer sauce and finish with cheese on low heat.

3. What can I use instead of marinara sauce?

You can substitute with tomato sauce or a homemade tomato-based sauce.

4. Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken?

Yes, add it in the last 30 minutes just to warm through and melt the cheese.

5. How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild by default. Adjust red pepper flakes for desired heat.

6. Can I add vegetables?

Yes, add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.

7. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low-carb if you skip any starchy sides.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just ensure your slow cooker is large enough.

9. What if the cheese doesn’t melt evenly?

Cover the slow cooker for the last 15 minutes to help cheese melt properly.

10. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Cook on low and use enough liquid; avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a delicious, no-fuss meal that brings together tender chicken and rich Italian flavors with minimal effort. With its creamy cheese topping and savory tomato base, it’s perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends. This recipe is easy to customize, freezes well, and makes a fantastic leftover meal. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.