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Rich and Creamy Italian Cream Cheese Chicken in the Crockpot – Comfort Food Made Easy

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

Ingredients

  • 2 to 2.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1 packet Italian dressing seasoning mix (about 1 ounce), or 2 tablespoons homemade Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste, especially if using a salty seasoning packet)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes, softened
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional but recommended for extra silkiness)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ to 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (as needed to thin the sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (optional, for thickening)
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
  • Cooked pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables, for serving

Instructions

  • Season the chicken: Place the chicken in the Crockpot. Sprinkle over the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the liquids: Pour in the chicken broth around the chicken. This keeps everything moist and builds the base for the sauce.
  • Slow cook: Cover and cook on Low for 3.5 to 4.5 hours, or on High for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is just cooked through and tender. Avoid overcooking.
  • Shred or slice: Transfer the chicken to a plate and shred with two forks (or slice, if you prefer chunks). Return it to the Crockpot.
  • Make it creamy: Add the cream cheese cubes, butter, and Parmesan to the Crockpot. Stir gently until the cream cheese begins to melt. Switch the heat to Warm or Low.
  • Adjust the sauce: If the sauce seems too thick, stir in heavy cream a little at a time until it’s smooth and pourable. If it’s too thin, mix the cornstarch slurry and stir it in. Cover and cook 10 to 15 minutes to thicken.
  • Taste and finish: Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Add chopped parsley or basil for freshness.
  • Serve: Spoon the creamy chicken over pasta, rice, or potatoes. Garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.