Cream cheese crock pot chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy and flavorful sauce. Using a slow cooker, this recipe offers a hands-off approach to meal preparation, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying dinner with minimal effort. The combination of cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and zesty Italian dressing mix creates a rich base that perfectly complements the chicken and cream cheese, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and comforting.
Why We Love This Cream Cheese Crock Pot Chicken Recipe
This cream cheese crock pot chicken recipe is adored by many for several reasons. Firstly, the convenience of the crock pot makes it perfect for busy weeknights. You can easily prepare it in the morning, and by dinner time, you will have a delicious meal ready with just a few minutes of effort. Secondly, the flavors in this dish are simply irresistible. The zesty Italian dressing mix adds a tangy and herby note that elevates the dish, while the cream cheese contributes a luxurious and velvety texture. Lastly, this recipe is versatile; you can serve it over rice, noodles, or even use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
Ingredients about Cream Cheese Crock Pot Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet dry Zesty Italian Dressing Mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- Rice or noodles for serving
How to Make Cream Cheese Crock Pot Chicken Directions
Making cream cheese crock pot chicken is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps. Start by placing four chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. Make sure they are evenly spaced to allow for even cooking. Next, in a mixing bowl, combine one can of cream of chicken soup, one cup of chicken broth, and one packet of dry zesty Italian dressing mix. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth. This mixture will infuse the chicken with flavor while keeping it moist throughout the cooking process.
Once your mixture is ready, pour it over the chicken in the crock pot. Ensure that the chicken is well-coated with the sauce for maximum flavor. Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The cooking time may vary depending on your specific crock pot model, so keep an eye on the chicken.
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add 8 ounces of cream cheese to the crock pot. Stir the cream cheese into the sauce until it melts and blends seamlessly into the dish. This step not only enhances the flavor but also enriches the texture of the sauce, making it creamy and luscious.
Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, it’s time to serve. You can elevate your dish by serving the creamy chicken mixture over a bed of cooked rice or noodles. This simple yet delicious meal is sure to satisfy your family’s hunger and leave them asking for seconds.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Crock Pot Chicken
Serving cream cheese crock pot chicken is simple, yet the presentation can make your meal feel special. First, if you choose rice as your base, prepare it according to the package instructions before the chicken is finished cooking. Fluff the rice with a fork and create a generous bed on each plate. For noodles, cook them al dente and drain before plating to avoid any excess water that might dilute the sauce.
Once your base is ready, ladle the creamy chicken mixture over the rice or noodles. Make sure to include plenty of the flavorful sauce, as it adds an extra layer of richness to the dish. For a touch of color and freshness, consider garnishing with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This simple addition not only enhances the visual appeal but also elevates the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Cream cheese crock pot chicken can be served with a side salad or steamed vegetables to round out your meal. A light side can balance the richness of the chicken, providing a satisfying and comforting dinner that everyone will love.
Expert Tips: Cream Cheese Crock Pot Chicken
To make the most of your cream cheese crock pot chicken, here are some expert tips to enhance your dish further. First, ensure to use high-quality chicken breasts; organic or free-range chicken has a better flavor and texture. If desired, you can sear the chicken in a skillet for a few minutes before adding it to the crock pot. This step will add an extra layer of flavor through caramelization.
When combining the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and dressing mix, whisk thoroughly to avoid any lumps. A lump-free mixture ensures that the sauce is smooth and coats the chicken evenly as it cooks. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture for a kick.
Keep in mind that every slow cooker may operate differently; if it’s your first time using one, check the manufacturer’s guidelines for best practices. Lastly, feel free to adjust the cream cheese quantity based on your preference for creaminess. More cream cheese results in an even richer sauce, while less will maintain a lighter consistency.
How to Store Cream Cheese Crock Pot Chicken
Storing cream cheese crock pot chicken is simple and allows you to enjoy leftovers later. Once your dish has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to store both the chicken and sauce together for maximum flavor retention. It is best to refrigerate it within two hours of cooking to ensure food safety.
When properly stored in the refrigerator, your cream cheese crock pot chicken will last for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave-safe dish or heat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If you find that the sauce has thickened during refrigeration, adding a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating can help you regain that creamy texture.
For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container and label it with the date for reference. Cream cheese crock pot chicken can be frozen for up to 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as described above.
Variation of Cream Cheese Crock Pot Chicken
This cream cheese crock pot chicken recipe offers numerous variations to suit different tastes and preferences. One popular twist is to add vegetables to the crock pot along with the chicken. Diced onions, bell peppers, or even broccoli can be excellent additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly, as adding more ingredients may require extra time to cook thoroughly.
For a twist on the classic flavor profile, consider swapping out the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. Each version provides a distinct taste, offering new variations of this comforting dish. Additionally, use different types of cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a unique cheesy flavor.
If you’re experimenting, try adding herbs and spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to enrich the flavor of your sauce. You can even switch the zesty Italian dressing mix for a ranch dressing mix to create a creamy ranch version of this dish, which will have a different but equally delicious taste.
FAQ
What is cream cheese crock pot chicken?
Cream cheese crock pot chicken is a slow-cooked dish featuring chicken breasts cooked with cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, zesty Italian dressing mix, and cream cheese, creating a rich and creamy sauce.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to increase the cooking time by about an hour if you are cooking on low, or cook on high for an additional 30 minutes.
What can I serve with cream cheese crock pot chicken?
You can serve this dish over rice or noodles. Additionally, it pairs well with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the sauce.
How can I make cream cheese crock pot chicken spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the sauce while cooking. This will give the dish a nice kick!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and store them overnight in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply place them in the crock pot to cook.
With these detailed instructions and tips, you can create a delicious cream cheese crock pot chicken dish that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Cream Cheese Crock Pot Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts Use high-quality organic or free-range chicken for better flavor.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet dry Zesty Italian Dressing Mix Can be substituted with ranch dressing mix for a different flavor.
- 8 ounces cream cheese Add more for a creamier sauce.
For Serving
- to taste Rice or noodles Cook according to package instructions.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and Zesty Italian dressing mix. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken, ensuring they are well-coated.
Cooking
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the cream cheese to the crock pot and stir until melted and blended.
Serving
- Serve the creamy chicken mixture over prepared rice or noodles.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
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