Slow Cooker Creamy Italian Chicken (4-Ingredient Comfort Classic)
A comforting slow-cooked chicken dish made with zesty Italian dressing, cream cheese, and Parmesan—easy, creamy, and perfect over pasta or rice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–6 hours (LOW) or 2–3 hours (HIGH)
- Total Time: Up to 6 hours
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course, Slow Cooker
- Method: Slow Cooked
- Cuisine: American-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup bottled Italian dressing (zesty or regular)
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened and cubed
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving, optional)
Instructions
Layer the Chicken
Place chicken breasts in an even layer at the bottom of a 4–6 quart slow cooker.
If very thick, slice breasts in half horizontally for even cooking.
Add the Dressing
Pour Italian dressing over the chicken. Turn pieces once or twice to coat.
Slow Cook
Cover and cook:
On LOW for 4–6 hours, or
On HIGH for 2–3 hours, until chicken is fork-tender and cooked through.
Shred the Chicken
Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the cooker, or shred on a cutting board and return it to the pot.
Add the Cheeses
Add cubed cream cheese and grated Parmesan to the slow cooker.
Stir gently and cover. Let it sit on LOW for 10–15 minutes until melted.
Stir again until smooth and creamy.
Serve
Taste and adjust sauce (add more dressing for tang, or milk/water to loosen).
Serve hot over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or sautéed greens.
Optional: Garnish with more Parmesan or fresh herbs.
Notes
Lighter version: Substitute half the cream cheese with plain Greek yogurt (add at the end off heat).
Veggie boost: Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions under the chicken before cooking.
Use thighs: Boneless thighs stay juicy and are more forgiving.
Make it thicker: Remove lid for the last 30 minutes of cook time to reduce liquid.
Low-sodium option: Choose reduced-sodium dressing and adjust cheese accordingly.
