Slow Cooker Italian Dressing Chicken

by

🐔 Slow Cooker Italian Dressing Chicken

Description

Slow Cooker Italian Dressing Chicken is a tender, juicy, and flavor-packed dish made with just a handful of ingredients. Boneless chicken slowly cooks in Italian dressing, allowing the herbs, garlic, and tangy vinegar notes to infuse deeply into the meat. The result is fall-apart chicken that’s incredibly versatile—perfect for serving over rice, pasta, potatoes, or tucked into sandwiches and wraps. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or stress-free entertaining.

⏱️ Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes

  • Cook Time: 4–6 hours (LOW) or 2–3 hours (HIGH)

  • Total Time: Up to 6 hours

🍽️ Servings

4 servings

📝 Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

  • 1 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 packet (0.7 oz) Italian dressing seasoning mix (optional but recommended for extra flavor)

  • ½ cup chicken broth (optional, for extra moisture)

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, added at the end)

  • 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray.

  2. Place chicken breasts in a single layer in the slow cooker.

  3. Pour Italian dressing evenly over the chicken.

  4. Sprinkle Italian seasoning packet, garlic powder, and black pepper over the top.

  5. Add chicken broth if using.

  6. Cover and cook:

    • LOW: 4–6 hours

    • HIGH: 2–3 hours

  7. Once fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C), shred or leave whole.

  8. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top, cover for 5 minutes to melt, and serve.

💡 Notes

  • Chicken thighs are more forgiving and extra juicy if overcooked slightly.

  • Shredded chicken works great for meal prep and freezes well.

  • Italian dressing already contains oil and seasoning—no extra salt needed.

🔥 Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t overcook: Chicken breasts can dry out if left too long on HIGH.

  • Shred in the pot to soak up all the flavorful juices.

  • Thicken the sauce by stirring in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) and cooking 15 more minutes on HIGH.

  • Add sliced onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

🥗 Serving Suggestions

  • Over white or brown rice

  • With mashed potatoes or roasted veggies

  • On hoagie rolls for sandwiches

  • In wraps, tacos, or over salad greens

🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 320

  • Protein: 35g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Carbohydrates: 4g

  • Sodium: 780mg

  • Sugar: 2g

(Values vary depending on brand of dressing used.)

🌟 Benefits

  • ✔️ High in lean protein

  • ✔️ Minimal prep and cleanup

  • ✔️ Budget-friendly and family-approved

  • ✔️ Great for meal prep and leftovers

  • ✔️ Naturally low-carb and keto-friendly (check dressing label)

Q & A

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: It’s best to thaw first for even cooking and food safety, though some slow cookers can handle frozen chicken on HIGH.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes! Simply skip the Parmesan cheese.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes—cook on HIGH pressure for 10 minutes with a 5-minute natural release.

Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: No, it’s mild. Add red pepper flakes or pepperoncini for heat.

Leave a Comment