As a busy mom, I’m always looking for simple and delicious recipes that the whole family will enjoy. One of our absolute favorites is this Slow Cooker Creamy Italian Chicken. It’s a dish that brings comfort and warmth, reminding me of those cozy family dinners we cherish. There’s something magical about coming home after a long day to the aroma of a savory meal, and this recipe never disappoints.
This dish is not just easy to make; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve it over rice, pasta, or even on a bed of mashed potatoes, making it perfect for any night of the week. The best part? You can throw everything into the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a creamy, flavorful chicken dish that everyone will love. I remember the first time I made this, my kids couldn’t get enough! They practically licked their plates clean!
What I love most about this recipe is how it’s become a staple in our home. It’s become a tradition to enjoy it on chilly evenings, wrapped in our blankets, sharing stories from our day. If you’re looking for a meal that will make your family feel loved and satisfied, this Slow Cooker Creamy Italian Chicken is it. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Italian Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 cans (10 oz each) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk (optional, to adjust thickness)
- 1 packet Zesty Italian dressing seasoning mix
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- Dash of ground pepper, to taste
- Dash of salt-free seasoning blend
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Directions
Start by lightly spraying the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the cooker, seasoning them with ground pepper and a salt-free blend.
Next, pour the two cans of cream of chicken soup evenly over the chicken. Then, sprinkle the Zesty Italian dressing mix on top, followed by the cream cheese cubes.
Cover the slow cooker with its lid, setting it to low for 5-6 hours or high for about 3 hours. The goal is to cook until the chicken is tender.
Once the chicken is cooked through, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. Stir everything together, ensuring the shredded chicken is well mixed with the creamy sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, feel free to add the milk gradually until it reaches your desired consistency.
Serve your creamy chicken dish over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a nice fresh touch. Enjoy every bite!
Storing Suggestion
To store leftovers, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Cooking Tips
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some diced vegetables like bell peppers or onions into the slow cooker with the chicken. You can also substitute the cream of chicken soup with a low-fat version or a homemade alternative for a healthier option.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For drinks, a light white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon complements the flavors beautifully.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re looking to cut down on dairy, you can replace the cream cheese with a vegan alternative or omit it altogether. For those avoiding chicken, turkey breast works just as well and provides a similar texture.
Seasonal Variations
In the fall, consider adding diced apples or squash to the slow cooker for a touch of sweetness. During spring and summer, fresh herbs like basil or oregano can brighten the dish, adding a seasonal twist.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy due to the cream cheese and cream of chicken soup. If you have lactose intolerance, look for lactose-free cream cheese and soups. Always check the seasoning packets for any potential allergens.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe. However, you may need to extend the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through properly. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Italian Chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side salad or steamed vegetables complements the meal nicely.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before, store them in the refrigerator, and then pop them in the slow cooker in the morning. This makes for an easy weeknight dinner solution.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it is tender and easily shreds with a fork. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything cooks evenly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze portions for later use. Just be sure to thaw completely before reheating.
Slow Cooker Creamy Italian Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans condensed cream of chicken soup (10 oz each)
- 1/2 cup milk (optional, to adjust thickness)
- 1 packet Zesty Italian dressing seasoning mix
- 4 oz cream cheese (cubed)
- ground pepper to taste
- salt-free seasoning blend to taste
- chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Spray the slow cooker insert lightly with cooking spray. Lay the chicken breasts at the base of the cooker and sprinkle them with pepper and a salt-free seasoning blend.
- Evenly pour the cream of chicken soup over the seasoned chicken, followed by the Italian dressing mix. Scatter the cream cheese cubes on top.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the low setting for 5-6 hours, or set to high for around 3 hours.
- When the chicken is tender, shred it using two forks directly in the cooker. Stir the mixture thoroughly to blend the shredded chicken with the sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, stir in the milk to reach your preferred consistency.
- Serve the creamy chicken over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
