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## **Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken**
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### **Introduction and Origin**
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a comforting, hands-off dinner that combines tender chicken breasts with the indulgent flavors of melted mozzarella cheese and a savory, creamy sauce. This dish is a twist on the classic Italian chicken parmigiana, but without the breading and frying, making it a much simpler and healthier option. Perfect for busy weekdays, this recipe allows the slow cooker to do most of the work, so you can come home to a delicious, hassle-free meal.
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### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
The origins of dishes like Chicken Parmesan, which inspired this recipe, lie in Italian-American cuisine. The practice of breading and frying meat, and then topping it with cheese and marinara sauce, became a favorite in Italian-American restaurants in the mid-20th century. This slow-cooked version is a lighter and more accessible alternative, incorporating the ease of slow cooking into a beloved classic. Slow cookers have grown in popularity for their ability to transform simple ingredients into deeply flavorful, tender meals with minimal effort.
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### **Ingredients Quantity (Serves 6)**
* **Boneless, skinless chicken breasts** – 4 large (about 2 lbs or 900g)
* **Cream cheese** – 8 oz (225 g), softened
* **Mozzarella cheese (shredded)** – 2 cups (200 g)
* **Parmesan cheese (grated)** – ½ cup (50 g)
* **Garlic powder** – 1 tsp
* **Onion powder** – 1 tsp
* **Italian seasoning** – 1 tbsp
* **Heavy cream** – ½ cup (120 ml)
* **Chicken broth** – ½ cup (120 ml)
* **Olive oil** – 1 tbsp (for searing chicken, optional)
* **Salt and pepper** – to taste
* **Fresh parsley** – optional, for garnish
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### **Optional Additions**
* **Sun-dried tomatoes** – for a tangy, rich addition
* **Spinach** – for added greens, mix in during the last 30 minutes of cooking
* **Mushrooms** – sliced, for extra earthy flavor
* **Red pepper flakes** – for a little heat
* **Fresh basil** – chopped, for an aromatic finishing touch
* **Cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles** – for a low-carb alternative to serve under the chicken
* **Pine nuts** – for a crunchy topping
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### **Tips for Success**
* **Sear the chicken first**: This step adds a deeper flavor to the chicken, though it’s optional. If you’re in a rush, you can skip it.
* **Use full-fat cream cheese**: This helps achieve a richer, creamier sauce. Light cream cheese can be used, but it may result in a less creamy texture.
* **Monitor the cooking time**: Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked, so check after 3 hours on low to ensure they’re tender and juicy.
* **Shred the chicken**: If you prefer a more rustic, shredded chicken dish, use two forks to shred the chicken once it’s cooked.
* **Don’t skip the mozzarella**: Fresh mozzarella or a high-quality shredded mozzarella yields the best melted texture and flavor.
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### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the chicken**: If you’re searing the chicken, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned. This step adds flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
2. **Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker**: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.
3. **Top with sauce**: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
4. **Add mozzarella cheese**: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the chicken. Cover and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. **Serve**: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, garnish with fresh parsley, basil, or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve with cauliflower rice, a green salad, or pasta for a full meal.
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### **Description**
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a rich and creamy dish that takes minimal effort to make yet delivers maximum flavor. The tender chicken breast slowly cooks in a luscious cream cheese and heavy cream sauce, flavored with Italian seasoning, garlic, and onion powder. Topped with gooey, melted mozzarella, this dish is pure comfort in every bite. It’s versatile enough to be paired with a variety of sides, from zucchini noodles to mashed potatoes, making it a perfect go-to dinner for any night of the week.
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### **Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)**
* **Calories**: 380–420
* **Protein**: 35g
* **Carbohydrates**: 5g
* **Fat**: 27g
* **Saturated Fat**: 14g
* **Fiber**: 0g
* **Sugar**: 1g
* **Sodium**: 650–700mg
* **Cholesterol**: 125mg
*Nutritional values are approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
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### **Conclusion and Recommendation**
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is the perfect solution for anyone seeking a delicious, comforting, and easy dinner. Its minimal prep time, combined with the convenience of a slow cooker, makes it an ideal recipe for busy individuals and families. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or meal prepping for the week, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Pair it with your favorite low-carb or veggie-based sides for a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
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### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
While this dish is indulgent, it’s also adaptable for those looking for healthier alternatives. By using lean chicken breasts and lighter dairy options, you can reduce the fat content while still enjoying the creamy, cheesy goodness. For an even healthier option, serve this dish over steamed veggies, cauliflower rice, or zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of traditional pasta. It’s a great way to indulge without the guilt, offering the creamy, cheesy goodness of a classic comfort food with a more health-conscious twist.
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