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Home » Blog » Recipes » Main Dish » Chicken » Italian Dressing Chicken (Crock Pot)

Italian Dressing Chicken (Crock Pot)

Oct 23, 2023 · Modified: Oct 24, 2023 by Pam Dana · This post may contain affiliate links · 8 Comments

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Dive into a flavorful Italian Dressing Chicken recipe, combining tender chicken breasts with zesty Italian dressing, garlic, dry ranch seasoning, chili powder, and cumin. A savory dish that promises to be a hit at every meal!

A white bowl filled with shredded chicken. To the side of the bowl is cilantro and lime. To the other side is a blue and white striped dish towel.

You will love Crockpot Chicken with Italian Dressing

If you’re on the hunt for a shredded chicken recipe that packs a punch, this Crockpot Chicken with Italian Dressing is it! Picture this: zingy Italian dressing, that classic taste of ranch seasoning, a kick from chili powder, and a hint of cumin and garlic. It’s that kind of flavor mix that makes you crave it over and over again! Once you give this a go, it’s gonna be your go-to shredded chicken for tacos, enchiladas, salads, quesadillas and more! You’ve gotta give it a try!

Cafe Rio Chicken Ingredients - ready to prepare freezer meals!

Chicken with Italian Dressing Ingredients

  • Chicken Breasts
  • Zesty Italian Dressing
  • Dry Ranch Seasoning
  • Water
  • Minced Garlic
  • Chili Powder
  • Ground Cumin

How to make Italian Dressing Crockpot Chicken

Versatility is the hallmark of this Italian Dressing Crockpot Chicken recipe. Whether you’re a fan of the set-and-forget ease of a crock pot, the rapid magic of an instant pot, or the traditional warmth of an oven, this dish adapts beautifully to your preferred cooking method.

A black crockpot with shredded chicken in it.

Crockpot Italian Dressing

1. Begin by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts.

A black crockpot with chicken breasts layered on the bottom of it.

2. Layer the chicken in the crockpot.

A black crockpot filled with chicken breasts, Italian dressing, ranch seasoning packet and other seasonings.

3. Pour the Zesty Italian Dressing over the chicken, followed by the Dry Ranch Seasoning, Water, Minced Garlic, Chili Powder, and Ground Cumin. Stir everything together, ensuring all the chicken breasts are thoroughly coated with the mixture.

4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender enough to shred with ease. Always ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for safety.

A black crockpot with two hands shredding chicken breasts with two forks.

5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, mixing well with the sauce. Allow it to marinate on the warm setting for an additional 20-30 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.

A white bowl filled with shredded chicken. To the side of the bowl is cilantro and lime. To the other side is a blue and white striped dish towel.

Instant Pot Italian Chicken

  1. Follow steps 1 and 2 from the Crockpot cooking instructions, placing the chicken breasts into the Instant Pot.
  2. Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the vent is set to ‘Sealing’. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ function and adjust the time to 10 minutes on HIGH pressure.
  3. After the cooking cycle concludes, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn the vent to ‘Venting’ to release any remaining steam and pressure.
  4. Carefully open the lid and remove the chicken. Use two forks to shred it. After shredding, return the chicken to the Instant Pot and mix it well with the dressing. Let the chicken marinate on the ‘Keep Warm’ setting for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to intensify and meld together.

Baked Chicken with Italian Dressing

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. Follow the seasoning and preparation steps (steps 1 and 2) from the Crockpot cooking instructions, placing the chicken breasts in a 9×13 glass baking dish.
  3. Once the chicken is coated and arranged in the dish, place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
  4. Remove the baking dish from the oven. Transfer the chicken to a plate and shred using two forks. After shredding, return the chicken to the baking dish and mix it well with the sauce, ensuring the flavors are thoroughly combined.

My favorite way to prepare this recipe is in the crockpot, as it effortlessly melds the flavors together and results in chicken that’s moist and infused with zesty goodness.

Cafe Rio Chicken Freezer Meal - ready to freeze! From overthebigmoon.com!

Italian Dressing Chicken Variations

What elevates this Italian Dressing Chicken recipe is not just its burst of flavor but its adaptability as a prime freezer meal choice. When planning for a hectic day, simply retrieve one of your freezer meals, let it defrost overnight in the fridge, and then cook it in your crockpot or Instant Pot for dinnertime. It’s the epitome of kitchen ease! If you’re wanting to refining your meal planning skills, check out a specialized post I’ve curated. In it, you’ll uncover the step-by-step instructions on turning this recipe into a freezer meal, along with a curated selection of six other Chicken Crockpot Freezer Recipes. Each comes with clear instructions and tips.

If you’re looking for a creamier version of this recipe, check out this Creamy Italian Chicken Recipe!

A white bowl filled with shredded chicken. To the side of the bowl is cilantro and lime. To the other side is a blue and white striped dish towel.

How to Serve Crockpot Italian Dressing Chicken

This recipe is so versatile and my go to for any recipe that it’s base is shredded chicken! Here are some of my favorites!

  • In Tacos: Use the chicken as a filling for tacos. Top with slaw, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime.
  • Classic Pairing with Pasta: Toss the shredded chicken with cooked spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne. Add some cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a simple and delicious pasta dish.
  • Chicken Salad: Mix the chicken with chopped lettuce, cucumbers, olives, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese. Drizzle with a little extra Italian dressing or balsamic reduction for an appetizing salad.
  • Stuffed Baked Potatoes: Load up a baked potato with the shredded chicken, some shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chives. The contrast of the zesty chicken with the earthy potato is divine.
  • Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve the zesty chicken over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa. Add some steamed or roasted vegetables on the side for a balanced meal.
  • Soup Enhancer: Stir the chicken into brothy soups or stews, especially those with beans, veggies, and pasta for an enriched flavor profile.
  • Stuffed Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and stuff them with a mix of the shredded chicken, cooked rice, and some cheese. Bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.

Storing Italian Dressing Chicken

  1. Cooling Before Storing:
    • Once you’ve finished cooking and shredding the chicken, allow it to cool to room temperature. This helps in preventing condensation which can alter the texture and flavor during storage.
  2. Refrigerating:
    • Place the shredded chicken in airtight containers or resealable plastic bags.
    • Press out as much air as possible before sealing to help preserve freshness.
    • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  3. Freezing for Longer Storage:
    • For freezing, it’s especially important to use airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
    • Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
    • The shredded chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
  4. Reheating:
    • If frozen, first thaw the shredded chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
    • Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to help rehydrate and prevent dryness. You can also use a microwave, covering the chicken and reheating in intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
A white bowl filled with shredded chicken. To the side of the bowl is cilantro and lime. To the other side is a blue and white striped dish towel.

Italian Dressing Chicken Crock Pot FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be a juicy alternative. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F before consuming.

Does chicken need to be covered in a slow cooker?

In a slow cooker, chicken doesn’t need to be submerged in liquid, but the cooker should always have its lid on. This traps heat and moisture, letting the chicken cook in its own juices and added seasonings, keeping it moist and tender.

Why is my crockpot chicken tough?

If your crockpot chicken turns out tough, it might be due to overcooking. Chicken, especially lean cuts like chicken breasts, can become dry and tough when cooked too long. Slow cookers trap moisture, so while it’s challenging to overcook them in a crockpot, it’s easy to reach a point where the meat’s fibers become tight and dry out. To avoid this, follow the suggested cook times in this recipe and use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to 165 degrees F and not more.

Does slow cooking tenderize chicken?

Yes, slow cooking tenderizes chicken. The prolonged, steady heat breaks down muscle fibers, resulting in tender meat. But, be cautious not to overcook, as chicken can still become dry if left too long, even in a slow cooker.

Is it better to cook chicken on high or low in crockpot?

Cooking chicken on low in a crockpot is generally preferred for optimal tenderness and flavor. While both settings will cook the chicken thoroughly, the low setting allows it to slowly tenderize and better absorb seasonings over a more extended period. However, if you’re short on time, cooking on high can be a faster option, but you might compromise a bit on the texture and flavor.

A black crockpot with shredded chicken in it.

I know you’ll fall in love with this Italian Dressing Shredded Chicken recipe as much as I have. Its blend of flavors and easy preparation make it a standout dish, perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. I’m sure you’ll use this recipe for many different dinners like tacos, burritos, on pasta, soups and served with rice. From my kitchen to yours, Enjoy!

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A white bowl filled with shredded chicken. To the side of the bowl is cilantro and lime. To the other side is a blue and white striped dish towel.

If you’ve tried this recipe, I’d love it if you’d comment and rate the recipe below! I love to hear feedback and answer questions!

A white bowl filled with shredded chicken. To the side of the bowl is cilantro and lime. To the other side is a blue and white striped dish towel.
Print Recipe

Crockpot Italian Dressing Chicken

Discover the perfect blend of Mediterranean zest and Southwest depth with our Zesty Italian Dressing Chicken recipe. Tangy, savory, and slightly spicy, it's a flavor journey in every bite.
Prep Time10 minutes mins
Cook Time6 hours hrs
Total Time6 hours hrs 10 minutes mins
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 367kcal
Author: Over The Big Moon

Ingredients

  • 4-6 Chicken Breasts washed and trimmed
  • 8 oz Zesty Italian Dressing
  • 1 packet Dry Ranch Seasoning (approx 3 tablespoons)
  • ½ cup Water
  • ½ tablespoons Minced Garlic
  • ½ tablespoons Chili Powder
  • ½ tablespoons Ground Cumin

Instructions

Crockpot Cooking Instructions:

  • Begin by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts.
  • Place the chicken in the crockpot.
  • Pour the Zesty Italian Dressing over the chicken, followed by the Dry Ranch Seasoning, Water, Minced Garlic, Chili Powder, and Ground Cumin. Stir everything together, ensuring all the chicken breasts are thoroughly coated with the mixture.
  • Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender enough to shred with ease. Always ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
  • Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, mixing well with the sauce. Allow it to marinate on the warm setting for an additional 20-30 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.

Instant Pot Cooking Instructions:

  • Follow steps 1 and 2 from the Crockpot cooking instructions, placing the chicken breasts into the Instant Pot.
  • Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the vent is set to ‘Sealing’. Select the 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' function and adjust the time to 10 minutes on HIGH pressure.
  • After the cooking cycle concludes, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn the vent to ‘Venting’ to release any remaining steam and pressure.
  • Carefully open the lid and remove the chicken. Use two forks to shred it. After shredding, return the chicken to the Instant Pot and mix it well with the dressing. Let the chicken marinate on the 'Keep Warm' setting for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to intensify and meld together.

Oven Cooking Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Follow the seasoning and preparation steps (steps 1 and 2) from the Crockpot cooking instructions, placing the chicken breasts in a 9×13 glass baking dish.
  • Once the chicken is coated and arranged in the dish, place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.Remove the baking dish from the oven.
  • Transfer the chicken to a plate and shred using two forks. After shredding, return the chicken to the baking dish and mix it well with the sauce, ensuring the flavors are thoroughly combined.

Notes

My favorite way to prepare this recipe is in the crockpot, as it effortlessly melds the flavors together and results in chicken that’s moist and infused with zesty goodness.

Ways to Serve Chicken with Italian Dressing Recipe

  • In Tacos: Use the chicken as a filling for tacos. Top with slaw, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime.
  • Classic Pairing with Pasta: Toss the shredded chicken with cooked spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne. Add some cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a simple and delicious pasta dish.
  • Chicken Salad: Mix the chicken with chopped lettuce, cucumbers, olives, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese. Drizzle with a little extra Italian dressing or balsamic reduction for an appetizing salad.
  • Stuffed Baked Potatoes: Load up a baked potato with the shredded chicken, some shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chives. The contrast of the zesty chicken with the earthy potato is divine.
  • Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve the zesty chicken over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa. Add some steamed or roasted vegetables on the side for a balanced meal.
  • Soup Enhancer: Stir the chicken into brothy soups or stews, especially those with beans, veggies, and pasta for an enriched flavor profile.
  • Stuffed Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and stuff them with a mix of the shredded chicken, cooked rice, and some cheese. Bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.

Nutrition

Calories: 367kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 48g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 145mg | Sodium: 1000mg | Potassium: 895mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 286IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 26mg | Iron: 1mg
Tried this recipe?Mention @OverTheBigMoon or tag #OverTheBigMoon!

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Kim

    August 26, 2024 at 10:22 am

    If you are making these as freezer meals, do you put EVERYTHING in the recipe in the bag and then throw it ALL in together in the crockpot when you thaw it? How does that work when the recipe says to add things later? Sorry if I missed the answer somewhere. I want to do this, but this part confuses me, especially with cream cheese being an ingredient.

    Reply
  2. Sarah

    May 22, 2024 at 12:11 am

    4 stars
    Recipe looks delicious! I have a question though. The instant pot directions say to put the chicken directly into the instant pot and pressure cook on high for 10 minutes before adding the dressing and other ingredients. Don’t you need to add some water or other liquid to prevent burning in the instant pot? Or do you find that the chicken releases enough liquid on its own? Thanks for clarifying and looking forward to making the recipe!

    Reply
  3. Sha

    November 30, 2023 at 6:29 am

    5 stars
    I love having this for lunch! It is filled with flavor and super pleasing! Even the kids love it!

    Reply
    • Pam Dana

      December 06, 2023 at 1:54 pm

      I totally agree!! Thank you!

      Reply
  4. jess

    November 29, 2023 at 5:29 pm

    5 stars
    this chicken was super flavotful and amazing in our rive bowls! thank you so much for sharing this amazing reicpe

    Reply
    • Pam Dana

      December 06, 2023 at 1:54 pm

      I’m so glad you loved it! Thanks!

      Reply
  5. Allyson Zea

    November 29, 2023 at 12:22 pm

    5 stars
    This chicken recipe makes the perfect dinner! Thank you so much for sharing it with me!

    Reply
    • Pam Dana

      December 06, 2023 at 1:54 pm

      Woohoo! Thanks for the nice comment!

      Reply

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Welcome! I’m Pam, a mom of 3 and a lover of reading, TV, the sun, and Mexican food! Here I love sharing easy everyday recipes, printables, Cricut crafts, holiday fun, and kids activities! Learn more about me over on my About Page or on Instagram! Have a fantastic day!

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