Description
This Slow Cooker Italian Chicken recipe is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts are slow-cooked with a zesty Italian dressing mix, cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup to create a rich, flavorful sauce. Served over your favorite pasta like rigatoni or bow tie, this easy meal satisfies the whole family with minimal prep and maximum taste.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (1 ounce) packet zesty Italian dressing mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 (10.75 ounce) cans cream of chicken soup
Pasta and Garnish
- 16 ounces pasta (rigatoni or bow tie recommended)
- Chopped parsley, optional for garnish
- Shredded Parmesan cheese, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the entire packet of zesty Italian dressing mix evenly over the chicken to infuse bold flavors.
- Make the creamy sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and the two cans of cream of chicken soup until smooth. Pour this mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, covering them thoroughly.
- Slow cook the chicken: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. This slow cooking process tenderizes the chicken and blends the flavors beautifully, creating a creamy and savory sauce.
- Shred the chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, carefully remove the breasts from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir well to coat in the sauce.
- Cook the pasta: While the chicken is finishing, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
- Serve: Plate the cooked pasta and spoon the creamy Italian chicken mixture over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and shredded Parmesan cheese if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a slightly different flavor profile.
- For a lower fat option, use reduced-fat cream cheese and a low-fat cream soup.
- Leftovers reheat well and make for great next-day lunches or dinners.
- Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans on the side for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American