Tender Chicken Smothered in Marinara & Melted Cheese – Effortless Italian Comfort Food!
This set-it-and-forget-it recipe delivers juicy chicken breasts swimming in herbed marinara sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!
📝 Ingredients (Serves 6)
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Optional Add-Ins:
- Red pepper flakes (for heat)
- 2 extra garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season & Layer
- Season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place in slow cooker.
2. Add Sauce
- Whisk together broth, marinara, and Italian seasoning.
- Pour over chicken.
3. Slow Cook
- Cover and cook:
- LOW: 6 hours
- HIGH: 3 hours
4. Add Cheese
- 30 mins before serving, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover until cheese melts.
5. Garnish & Serve
- Top with fresh basil.
- Let rest 10 mins before serving over pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
🌟 Pro Tips
🍅 Sauce Secrets:
- Boost flavor with 1 tbsp balsamic glaze or ½ tsp sugar to balance acidity.
- Too thin? Remove chicken, simmer sauce uncovered 10 mins.
⏳ Time-Saving Tricks:
- Prep ahead: Store seasoned chicken + sauce mix in fridge overnight.
- Frozen chicken? Add 1 hour to cook time (check internal temp: 165°F/74°C).
♻️ Storage & Reheating:
- Fridge: 3-4 days (reheat in oven at 350°F/175°C for 15 mins).
- Freeze: Without cheese for 3 months (add cheese when reheating).
❓ FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes! Bone-in thighs may need +1 hour on LOW.
2. Why is my chicken dry?
- Overcooked → Stick to recommended times.
- Lean breasts? Brine in 1 tbsp salt + 1 cup water for 30 mins first.
3. No slow cooker?
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 mins (covered until cheese step).
4. Can I add veggies?
Layer sliced zucchini or mushrooms under chicken.
5. Best cheese substitutes?
- Provolone for mozzarella
- Pecorino for Parmesan
🍽️ Final Thoughts
This slow cooker cheesy chicken is maximum flavor with minimal effort—ideal for hectic days when you still want a homecooked Italian meal.
“So easy, you’ll make it weekly!” ❤️
Tag your creations #SlowCookerCheesyChicken
