Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of Italian-inspired chicken that's so tender it practically melts in your mouth. This Crock Pot Italian Mozzarella Chicken is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary chicken into a restaurant-worthy dish with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe combines the rich flavors of marinara sauce, the creaminess of melted mozzarella, and perfectly seasoned chicken that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasonings adhere better and prevents excess liquid in the slow cooker.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Ensure even coverage to maximize flavor throughout the meat.
- Lightly spray the inside of the crock pot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the crock pot, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Pour the entire jar of marinara sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated with the sauce.
- Cover the crock pot and set to low heat. Cook for 4 hours, which allows the chicken to become tender and absorb the marinara sauce's flavors.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken, allowing it to melt and create a gooey, cheesy topping.
- Once cooking is complete, check that the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, spooning extra marinara sauce from the crock pot over the chicken if desired. Pair with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure the spices stick and prevent excess moisture.
- Use fresh, high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor profile.
- For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh basil to the sauce.
- Don't overcrowd the crock pot - keep the chicken in a single layer for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- For a crispy cheese topping, you can briefly broil the chicken after slow cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Try using different types of cheese like provolone or a blend for variety.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or over zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and simmer the sauce on the stovetop for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
