Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will satisfy your cravings for cheesy chicken? Look no further! This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken recipe is the perfect choice for a hearty and comforting meal. The combination of tender chicken, gooey mozzarella cheese, and flavorful seasonings will leave you wanting more. Plus, it’s a great option for those following a keto or low-carb diet. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this mouthwatering recipe:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dried basil, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add the Mozzarella Cheese and Tomatoes
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken breasts. Then, pour the diced tomatoes (with the liquid) over the cheese and chicken.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked.
Step 4: Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving platter. Spoon some of the tomato and cheese mixture over each chicken breast. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Keto and Low Carb Variations
If you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, this recipe is perfect for you! It’s naturally low in carbs and high in protein. However, if you want to make it even more keto-friendly, here are a few variations you can try:
- Replace the diced tomatoes with sugar-free tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes to reduce the carb content.
- Instead of mozzarella cheese, use a combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
- Add some chopped veggies like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
Tips
– For extra flavor, you can brown the seasoned chicken breasts in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker.
– If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and add it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
– Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. You can add more or less garlic powder, basil, or oregano to suit your liking.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken recipe is a winner when it comes to taste, convenience, and nutrition. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether you’re following a keto or low-carb diet or simply looking for a comforting meal, this recipe will become a family favorite in no time.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken thighs for the chicken breasts in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as chicken thighs may require slightly longer cooking.
2. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover chicken and tomato mixture. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it up in a skillet or microwave.
3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Certainly! If you have fresh tomatoes on hand, you can dice them and use them instead of canned tomatoes. Just keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may release more liquid during cooking, so you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Now that you have this amazing Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken recipe, it’s time to gather the ingredients and get cooking. Your taste buds will thank you for it!
