Made with just four simple ingredients, this slow cooker meal transforms juicy chicken breasts into tender, shredded chicken coated in a rich and creamy cream cheese gravy.
The Italian dressing seasoning adds savory herbs and spices, while the cream cheese creates a velvety sauce that’s perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Tender shredded chicken. Creamy homemade gravy. Minimal prep.
It’s an easy, family-friendly dinner that’s ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy comfort meals.
Look at the Recipe
- Only 4 simple ingredients
- 35g of protein per serving
- Slow cooker does all the work
- Rich, creamy gravy without complicated steps
- Perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly
- Family-friendly comfort food everyone will enjoy
Ingredients Needed
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (0.7-ounce) packet Italian dressing seasoning mix
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese
How to Make Our High-Protein Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
1. Add Everything to the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
Sprinkle the Italian dressing seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken.
Pour the chicken broth around the chicken.
Place the cream cheese on top.
2. Slow Cook
Cover with the lid.
Cook on:
- LOW for 6–7 hours, or
- HIGH for 3–4 hours
The chicken is ready when it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork.
3. Shred the Chicken
Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker.
Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Set aside.
4. Make the Creamy Gravy
Whisk the cream cheese and cooking liquid together inside the slow cooker until smooth and creamy.
If needed, whisk until all the cream cheese is fully incorporated into the sauce.
5. Combine
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Stir until every piece of chicken is coated in the creamy gravy.
Allow everything to cook together for another 5–10 minutes before serving.
6. Serve
Serve warm over your favorite side dishes and garnish with chopped parsley or freshly cracked black pepper if desired.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth if the gravy becomes too thick.
Delicious Serving Ideas
Serve over:
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed rice
- Egg noodles
- Cauliflower mash
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed broccoli
- Green beans
- Biscuits
For a low-carb meal, pair it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Why This Version Is High-Protein
- Chicken breast is naturally lean and provides an excellent source of complete protein.
- Each serving delivers approximately 35 grams of protein, making it filling and satisfying.
- Cream cheese creates a rich, creamy gravy while adding a little extra protein and fat for a comforting texture.
- Since the recipe contains very few carbohydrates, it’s also suitable for many low-carb eating plans.
This combination makes it an excellent choice for meal prep, family dinners, or anyone looking to increase their daily protein intake.
Tips & FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and produce an even richer, juicier result.
Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese?
Absolutely. Reduced-fat cream cheese works well, although the gravy may be slightly less rich and creamy.
My gravy seems too thick. What should I do?
Simply stir in a little extra chicken broth until you reach your preferred consistency.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes. Mushrooms, carrots, onions, peas, or spinach can be added during cooking for extra flavor and nutrition.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Add all the ingredients to the slow cooker insert the night before and refrigerate. The next day, place the insert into the slow cooker and begin cooking.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes. Let the chicken cool completely before freezing. Store in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes. Pressure cook the chicken with the broth and seasoning, then stir in the cream cheese after cooking until the gravy is smooth.
Nutrition Information (Estimated Per Serving)
- Calories: 306 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
- Sodium: 367mg
- Potassium: 615mg
- Vitamin A: 556 IU
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 48mg
- Iron: 1mg
