Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Creamy Italian Chicken
This creamy Italian chicken is a slow cooker favorite made with just 4 ingredients! Tender shredded chicken in a cheesy, zesty sauce—perfect over pasta, rice, or in wraps.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–6 hours (LOW) or 2–3 hours (HIGH)
- Total Time: ~4.5 to 6.5 hours
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, Slow Cooker
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup Italian dressing (zesty or regular, bottled)
1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened and cubed
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving, optional)
Instructions
Place chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker. Slice large breasts in half horizontally if needed.
Pour Italian dressing over chicken and turn pieces to coat.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours, until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Shred the chicken using two forks, either in the slow cooker or on a cutting board. Return to pot if removed.
Add cubed cream cheese and grated Parmesan. Stir gently. Cover and let melt for 10–15 minutes on LOW. Stir again until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Adjust sauce consistency if needed: add a splash of dressing for more tang or milk/water for a looser sauce.
Serve hot over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or in buns/wraps.
Notes
Lighten it up: Swap half the cream cheese with plain Greek yogurt (add off heat).
Add veggies: Layer sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions under the chicken before cooking.
Use chicken thighs: For juicier meat and flexibility on cook time.
For sandwiches/wraps: Leave the lid off for 20–30 mins at the end to thicken the sauce.
Herb boost: Sprinkle with dried Italian herbs or fresh basil/parsley before serving.
Lower sodium: Use reduced-sodium dressing and go light on extra cheese/salty sides.
