Description
This 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken & Cream Cheese with Pineapple Rings is an easy, flavorful dish perfect for a stress-free meal. Tender chicken breasts or thighs are cooked low and slow with tangy ranch seasoning, juicy pineapple rings, and creamy softened cream cheese, creating a rich and slightly sweet sauce. Serve this delightful combination over rice, noodles, or your favorite side for a comforting, satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Dairy
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into large cubes
Fruits
- 20 oz canned pineapple rings in juice (juice reserved)
Seasoning
- 1 oz dry ranch seasoning mix (1 packet)
Instructions
- Prepare slow cooker: Lightly grease the insert of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker with oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Layer the chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add seasoning: Evenly sprinkle the dry ranch seasoning mix over the chicken to infuse flavor throughout the cooking process.
- Add pineapple: Drain the canned pineapple rings, reserving the juice. Lay the pineapple rings on top of the chicken, then pour 1/2 cup of the reserved pineapple juice over everything to add moisture and sweetness.
- Add cream cheese: Scatter the softened cream cheese cubes evenly over the pineapple and chicken, which will melt into a creamy sauce as it cooks.
- Cook chicken: Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is very tender and fully cooked.
- Shred chicken: Carefully remove the pineapple rings and set aside. Use two forks to shred the tender chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it well into the sauce.
- Adjust sauce: Stir in more reserved pineapple juice as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency. Taste and season with extra salt or pepper if necessary.
- Serve: Return the pineapple rings to the top whole or chopped. Serve the chicken hot over rice, noodles, or your preferred side.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for a moister, more flavorful dish, or chicken breasts for leaner meat.
- Make sure to soften the cream cheese beforehand for easy melting and mixing.
- Reserve pineapple juice to adjust the sauce’s sweetness and texture after cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with steamed rice, egg noodles, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
