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

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4-5 hours on LOW or 2-3 hours on HIGH
  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (LOW) or 2 hours 10 minutes (HIGH)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This easy 4-ingredient slow cooker recipe combines tender chicken breasts or thighs with creamy softened cream cheese, tangy pineapple rings, and savory ranch seasoning. The slow cooking method melds all the flavors into a deliciously creamy, tangy sauce that’s perfect served over rice, noodles, or your favorite side. It’s a fuss-free dish that requires minimal prep and cooks hands-off for a perfectly tender and flavorful meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Dairy

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

Produce

  • 20 oz pineapple rings in juice (juice reserved)

Seasoning

  • 1 oz dry ranch seasoning mix (1 packet)


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.
  2. Arrange 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 impart flavor directly onto the meat.
  4. 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 sweetness and moisture.
  5. Add Cream Cheese: Scatter the cream cheese cubes over the pineapple and chicken to create a creamy sauce during cooking.
  6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours until the chicken is very tender and cooked through.
  7. Shred Chicken: Carefully remove the pineapple rings and set them aside. Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the sauce, mixing well.
  8. Adjust Sauce: Stir in more of the reserved pineapple juice as needed to reach desired sauce consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Serve: Return the pineapple rings to the top, whole or chopped. Serve the creamy pineapple chicken hot over rice, noodles, or a side of your choice for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for juicier meat.
  • Adjust the amount of pineapple juice added to control the sweetness and moisture level of the sauce.
  • For a thicker sauce, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce liquid.
  • This recipe freezes well; store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
  • Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.