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Italian Cream Cheese Chicken Crockpot for Cozy Nights - Comforting, Creamy, and Easy

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time4 hours
Total Time4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes and softened
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned (packed in oil, drained) or 1 can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 2 cups baby spinach (optional, for a bit of green)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, for serving

Instructions

  • Prep the crockpot: Lightly spray the inside with nonstick spray to help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  • Season the chicken: Place chicken in the crockpot. Sprinkle ranch seasoning, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper over the top.
  • Add liquids: Pour in the chicken broth around the sides of the chicken. This keeps the seasoning on top while providing moisture for slow cooking.
  • Slow cook: Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or High for 2.5–3.5 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with two forks.
  • Add the creaminess: About 30 minutes before serving, add the cubed cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan. Stir gently, then cover and let the cream cheese melt into the sauce.
  • Finish with extras: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and baby spinach. Cover for another 5–10 minutes until the spinach wilts and everything is hot and creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  • Shred and serve: Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot with two forks. Stir to coat in the sauce. Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.