Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken

 This Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare. With tender chicken, a rich tomato-based sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or vegetables.

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Ingredients

(Serves 4–6)

• 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 cup (120g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1–2 cups (120–240g) shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts or thighs with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.

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Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker

1. Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Add the heavy cream and stir gently to combine with the marinara sauce.

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Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Cover and cook on low heat for 6–7 hours or high heat for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).

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Step 4: Add Cheese

1. Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
2. Cover the slow cooker and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
2. Serve the cheesy mozzarella chicken over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside steamed vegetables.

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Pro Tips

• Optional Crisp Finish: For a golden, bubbly top, transfer the cooked chicken and sauce to a baking dish, sprinkle with additional mozzarella, and broil in the oven for 3–5 minutes.
• Add Veggies: Include sliced mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini in the slow cooker for a one-pot meal.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Prep: Minimal effort with maximum flavor, thanks to the slow cooker.
• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan makes it irresistibly creamy and comforting.
• Versatile: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping.

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Enjoy this Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken for a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Let me know if you’d like side dish recommendations or variations! 

Strawberry Crunch Cookies

 Strawberry Crunch Cookies are a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, combining the freshness of strawberries with the richness of white chocolate and a crunchy topping. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family gathering, or simply craving a sweet treat. This recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a batch of cookies that are both visually appealing and incredibly delicious.

Why We Love This Recipe

There are several reasons why Strawberry Crunch Cookies have become a favorite in many households:

1. Unique Flavor Combination: The combination of strawberries and white chocolate creates a unique and irresistible flavor profile that sets these cookies apart from traditional recipes.
2. Crunchy Topping: The crunchy topping adds a delightful texture that complements the soft, chewy cookie base.
3. Visually Appealing: The pink drizzle adds a pop of color, making these cookies not only delicious but also visually appealing.
4. Easy to Make: Despite their gourmet appearance, these cookies are surprisingly easy to make, requiring only basic ingredients and simple steps.

Ingredients

Cookie Dough

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
• 1/3 cup white chocolate chips

Crunch Topping

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

Pink Drizzle

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons milk
• 1–2 drops pink food coloring (optional)

How to Make This Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined. Fold in the crushed freeze-dried strawberries and white chocolate chips.

Step 5: Prepare the Crunch Topping

In a small bowl, combine the flour, cold butter, and sugar for the crunch topping. Use a fork or your fingers to create a crumbly mixture.

Step 6: Form the Cookies

Scoop 1 1/2 tablespoons of cookie dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly, then sprinkle the crunch topping over each cookie.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake for 12–14 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Pink Drizzle

For the pink drizzle, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and food coloring until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cookies and let set before serving.

Success Tips

1. Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to work with, chill it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
2. Adjust the Drizzle: You can adjust the consistency of the drizzle by adding more milk for a thinner consistency or more powdered sugar for a thicker consistency.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best results.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months.

Notes

• Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Make sure to crush the freeze-dried strawberries finely for even distribution in the cookie dough.
• White Chocolate Chips: You can substitute white chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate chips if preferred.

Nutrition

• Calories: 165 per cookie
• Servings: 20 cookies

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried strawberries?

While fresh strawberries can be used, they may add too much moisture to the cookie dough, affecting the texture. Freeze-dried strawberries are preferred for their concentrated flavor and dry texture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This can also help enhance the flavors.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as they will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.

Conclusion

Strawberry Crunch Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the freshness of strawberries with the richness of white chocolate and a crunchy topping. This recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a batch of cookies that are both visually appealing and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family gathering, or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delightful baking experience!

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks

 Crispy, cheesy, and packed with bold buffalo flavor—these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply craving a fun, handheld treat, these mozzarella sticks will hit the spot! 🧡

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Why You’ll Love These Mozzarella Sticks

1. Packed with Flavor

Imagine the tangy kick of buffalo sauce, the creamy gooeyness of mozzarella cheese, and the crispy golden exterior. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite!

2. Quick and Easy

With just 15 minutes of prep and a short 10-minute cook time, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser ready in no time.

3. Healthier Option

Thanks to the air fryer, these mozzarella sticks are lighter than their deep-fried counterparts but just as crunchy and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works wonders!)
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust spice level to taste)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Cooking spray
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Tools You’ll Need

• Air fryer
• Three shallow bowls for breading
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs (optional but helpful)

• Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling

  In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce. Stir in mozzarella cheese until the mixture is evenly coated.

• 2. Set Up Your Breading Station

  • Bowl 1: All-purpose flour.
  • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
  • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

  3. Shape the Sticks

  Take a small handful of the chicken and cheese mixture and form it into a stick shape. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

• 4. Bread the Sticks

  Dredge each stick in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumbs.

• 5. Air Fry

  • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  • Place the mozzarella sticks in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
  • Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

  6. Garnish and Serve

  Let the sticks cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and pair with extra buffalo sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

• What to Serve with These Mozzarella Sticks

  • Celery sticks and carrot sticks for a classic pairing.
  • A side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
  • Add them to a platter with other air-fried appetizers for the ultimate party spread!

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  Tips for Perfect Mozzarella Sticks

  • Prevent Sticking: Use a light coat of cooking spray on the air fryer basket.
  • Work Quickly: Form the sticks and bread them quickly to prevent the cheese from softening too much.
  • Extra Crunch: Double coat the sticks by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.

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  Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Pop them back in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to regain their crunch.
  • Freeze: Freeze uncooked sticks on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Air fry directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the cook time.

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  Frequently Asked Questions

  Can I use different cheese?

  Yes! While mozzarella provides the best gooey texture, cheddar or pepper jack can add a unique flavor twist.

  Are these gluten-free?

  Swap out the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives to make these gluten-free.

• Can I bake these instead of air frying?

  Absolutely! Bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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  Wrap-Up

  These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks bring together everything you love about comfort food—cheese, spice, and crunch! They’re quick, easy, and perfect for sharing (or not!). Try them out, and don’t forget to share your photos on Pinterest or leave a review below.

• Looking for more buffalo-flavored goodness? Check out:

  • Buffalo Chicken Dip
  • Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

  Creative Ways to Customize

  These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks are already packed with flavor, but there’s always room for creativity! Here are some fun variations to try:

• 1. Add a Cheesy Surprise

  Place a small cube of mozzarella or cheddar in the center of the stick before breading. It’ll create an ooey-gooey surprise when you bite in!

  2. Spice it Up

  Mix some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the buffalo sauce or breadcrumbs for extra heat.

• 3. Go Low-Carb

  Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds and use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a keto-friendly version.

  4. Experiment with Sauces

  Try drizzling them with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a creamy garlic aioli for a unique twist.

• Perfect for Any Occasion

  • Game Day: Serve them alongside wings and nachos for the ultimate tailgate spread.
  • Party Appetizers: These sticks are great for mingling—no utensils required!
  • Snack Attack: Whip up a batch for an indulgent midday pick-me-up.
  • Kids’ Favorites: Adjust the spice level for a kid-friendly version that they’ll love.

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  Step It Up: Make It a Meal

  Turn these mozzarella sticks into a full-blown meal! Serve them over a bed of greens with some ranch dressing for a buffalo chicken salad. Or, pair them with roasted veggies and sweet potato fries for a complete dinner.

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  Pro Tips for Success

  • Freeze Before Cooking: If you have extra time, freeze the breaded sticks for 15 minutes before air frying. This helps the cheese stay in place and ensures an extra crispy exterior.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the sticks in batches if necessary to allow for even airflow in the air fryer.

  • Pairing Drinks with Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks

    No great snack is complete without the perfect drink to wash it down! Here are some drink pairing ideas to elevate your experience:

    1. Classic Beers

    • A cold, crisp lager or pale ale balances the spice of the buffalo sauce beautifully.
    • For something bolder, a hoppy IPA enhances the tangy buffalo flavor.

    2. Refreshing Cocktails

    • Margaritas: The citrusy zing of a margarita complements the heat. Try a spicy jalapeño margarita for an extra kick!
    • Bloody Marys: The savory notes of this classic cocktail are a match made in heaven.

    3. Non-Alcoholic Options

    • A fizzy ginger ale or sparkling water with lime adds refreshing contrast.
    • Try a homemade lemonade or iced tea for a kid-friendly pairing.

     

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    Make It a Party Platter

    Want to go all out? Create a party platter featuring your Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks alongside:

  • Vegetable Crudités: Carrot and celery sticks, bell pepper strips, and cucumber slices.
  • Dip Trio: Ranch, blue cheese, and a spicy chipotle mayo.
  • Air-Fried Sides: Sweet potato wedges or onion rings for variety.

  • Why Use an Air Fryer?

    If you’re new to air frying, this recipe is a great way to start! Here’s why air fryers are a game-changer:

  • • Healthier Cooking: Get crispy results without loads of oil.
    • Quick and Easy Cleanup: Most air fryer baskets are non-stick and dishwasher-safe.
    • Versatile: Use it for everything from appetizers to desserts!

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    Fun Serving Ideas

    • Skewers: Thread mozzarella sticks onto skewers for a fun, shareable presentation.
    • Buffalo Bowl: Layer the sticks over a bed of coleslaw and drizzle with extra buffalo sauce.
    • Stack It: Serve on a plate stacked Jenga-style for a playful display.

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    Nutrition Information (per serving):

    • Calories: 290
    • Protein: 17g
    • Carbs: 20g
    • Fat: 15g

    Happy snacking! 🎉