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4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken & Cream Cheese with Pineapple Rings Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 30 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 hours
  • Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A simple and flavorful slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken breasts combined with creamy cream cheese and sweet pineapple rings, seasoned with ranch mix for a quick and delicious meal perfect for serving over rice or noodles.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 oz dry ranch seasoning mix (1 packet)

Dairy

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into large cubes

Fruit

  • 20 oz pineapple rings in juice (juice reserved)


Instructions

  1. Prepare Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the insert of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker with oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking during cooking.
  2. Layer Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker for even cooking.
  3. Add Seasoning: Sprinkle the dry ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken to infuse flavor throughout.
  4. Add Pineapple: Drain the pineapple rings, reserving the juice. Lay the pineapple rings on top of the chicken and pour 1/2 cup of the reserved juice over everything to add moisture and sweetness.
  5. Add Cream Cheese: Scatter the softened cream cheese cubes over the pineapple and chicken to create a creamy sauce as it cooks.
  6. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours, or on HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is very tender and fully cooked.
  7. Shred Chicken: Carefully remove the pineapple rings and set aside. Shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker, mixing it into the creamy sauce.
  8. Adjust Sauce: Stir in more reserved pineapple juice if the sauce needs thinning and season to taste with extra salt or pepper for balanced flavors.
  9. Serve: Return the pineapple rings on top, whole or chopped, and serve the dish hot over rice, noodles, or your preferred side.

Notes

  • Use either chicken breasts or thighs based on preference; thighs will yield a slightly richer flavor.
  • Soften cream cheese before cutting to ensure it melts evenly during cooking.
  • Reserve pineapple juice carefully to adjust the sauce’s consistency and flavor.
  • Optional: serve with steamed rice, egg noodles, or vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.