Creamy Slow‑Cooker Chicken

Table of Contents

This Creamy Slow‑Cooker Chicken is the ultimate hands-off comfort meal. Tender chicken breasts cook slowly in a rich, savory sauce made with cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and ranch seasoning, then topped with melty cheese. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with juicy, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep.

The dish pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. It’s creamy without being heavy, full of familiar flavors, and versatile enough to customize with herbs or additional vegetables.

Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours on low (or 2–3 hours on high)
Total Time: 4–5 hours
Servings: 4

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix

½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

2 teaspoons garlic powder

1 teaspoon black pepper

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the chicken. Pat chicken breasts dry and season lightly with black pepper and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.

Mix the sauce. In a medium bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, and remaining garlic powder. Stir until smooth.

Place chicken in slow cooker. Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.

Add sauce. Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.

Cook. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Add cheese. About 15 minutes before the end of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken and cover to allow it to melt.

Check consistency. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a few tablespoons of milk or chicken broth to loosen.

Garnish. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve. Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or vegetables.

Store leftovers. Let cool slightly, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Tips

Use full-fat sour cream for extra richness.

Greek yogurt can be substituted for a lighter version.

Chicken thighs can replace breasts for juicier meat.

Avoid overcooking; slow cookers vary in heat.

For extra flavor, sear chicken briefly before adding to the slow cooker.

Stir sauce once halfway through cooking for even coverage.

Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for a vegetable boost.

Taste before adding extra salt; ranch seasoning may already be salty.

Let chicken rest a few minutes before serving for better texture.

Use a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup.

Variations

Bacon‑Cheddar Twist: Top with cooked bacon bits before adding cheese.

Italian Style: Substitute ranch mix with Italian seasoning and add marinara.

Spicy Kick: Stir in ½ teaspoon cayenne or hot sauce to the sauce.

Mushroom Cream: Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms into the sauce.

Broccoli Chicken: Add 1–2 cups steamed broccoli 10 minutes before serving.

Cheddar-Mozzarella Combo: Use equal parts of both cheeses for extra melt.

Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but increase cooking time slightly and ensure chicken is fully cooked.

Can this be made ahead?
Yes, prepare sauce and chicken the night before; store separately and combine before slow cooking.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger slow cooker. Increase cooking time slightly.

What sides work best?
Rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Is the sauce too thick?
Add milk or chicken broth to loosen consistency.

Can I skip the cheese?
Yes, the dish will still be creamy and flavorful.

How do I make it lower in calories?
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Can I add vegetables directly into the slow cooker?
Yes, denser vegetables like carrots or potatoes go in at the start; delicate ones like broccoli or peas go in the last 15 minutes.

How do I prevent chicken from drying out?
Cook on low and avoid overcooking; sauce helps keep it moist.

Nutrition

(Approximate per serving)

Calories: 380–420

Protein: 36–40g

Carbohydrates: 4–6g

Fat: 22–26g

Fiber: 0–1g

Sodium: 800–900mg

Values vary depending on type of sour cream, cheese, and broth used.

Conclusion

This Creamy Slow‑Cooker Chicken recipe is a simple, comforting dish that’s rich in flavor but effortless to prepare. The slow cooker ensures tender, juicy chicken while the creamy, cheesy sauce adds indulgence without fuss.

It’s adaptable, easy to pair with your favorite sides, and makes for excellent leftovers. With minimal prep and maximum taste, this is a recipe that becomes a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.