🐔 Slow Cooker Million Dollar Chicken
Description
Slow Cooker Million Dollar Chicken is an ultra-creamy, flavor-packed dish that tastes indulgent but takes minimal effort! Juicy, tender chicken breasts (or thighs) are slow-cooked in a rich blend of cream cheese, cottage cheese, and bacon, then topped with melted cheddar. The result is a velvety, cheesy chicken dinner that truly tastes like a million bucks — perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Ingredients
Serves: 6
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2 lbs (about 4–6 pieces) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 cup cottage cheese
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½ cup sour cream
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½ cup mayonnaise
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
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6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
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¼ cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Lightly grease your slow cooker with non-stick spray or a bit of butter. -
Season the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. -
Make the Creamy Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and half of the shredded cheddar. Mix until smooth and creamy. -
Assemble:
Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 2½–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through. -
Add Toppings:
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top. Cover again until the cheese melts. -
Serve:
Garnish with green onions and serve warm. Pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
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You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier results.
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If you prefer less creamy texture, reduce cottage cheese to ½ cup.
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For a smoky flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or use smoked bacon.
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This dish reheats wonderfully and even tastes better the next day.
Tips
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Avoid curdling: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing.
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Don’t overcook: Chicken can dry out if left too long on “high.” Stick to the recommended times.
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Low-carb option: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
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Add texture: Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs on top before serving for a crispy bite.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve over white rice, buttered egg noodles, or mashed potatoes.
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Add a side of roasted broccoli or a crisp green salad for balance.
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Great for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep (lasts up to 4 days in the fridge).
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Approximate values based on 6 servings)
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Calories: 480
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Protein: 42 g
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Fat: 32 g
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Carbohydrates: 4 g
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Fiber: 0 g
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Sugar: 2 g
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Sodium: 520 mg
Health Benefits
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High in protein: Supports muscle growth and satiety.
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Low in carbs: Ideal for keto or low-carb diets.
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Calcium-rich: From the cheese and cottage cheese.
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Stress-free cooking: Hands-off slow cooker method saves time and effort.
Q & A
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking and texture.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before, refrigerate, and start the slow cooker in the morning.
Q3: Can I substitute cottage cheese?
Yes — use ricotta cheese for a similar creamy texture.
Q4: What can I do with leftovers?
Use leftovers in wraps, quesadillas, or spoon over baked potatoes for a quick meal.
Q5: How can I make it lighter?
Use light cream cheese, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.