Creamy Cheesy Shredded Chicken (Slow Cooker / Instant Pot)
🛒 Ingredients
2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 (8 oz / 225 g) block cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese
½ cup chicken broth
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Optional: 1–2 tbsp chopped parsley or chives (for garnish)
🍲 Slow Cooker Method
Add chicken to the slow cooker. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Pour in chicken broth.
Add cream cheese on top.
Cook on LOW 4–5 hours or HIGH 2–3 hours, until chicken is tender.
Shred chicken directly in the pot using two forks.
Stir in shredded cheese until melty and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with herbs if you want.
⚡ Instant Pot Method
Add chicken, broth, and seasonings to Instant Pot.
Place cream cheese on top.
Pressure cook on HIGH for 10 minutes (12 if chicken is thick).
Natural release 5 minutes, then quick release.
Shred chicken, stir in shredded cheese until smooth.
🥪 How to Serve (this stuff is versatile)
On sandwich rolls or sliders
In tortillas or tacos
Over rice or mashed potatoes
Stuffed into baked potatoes
As a dip with chips or toasted bread
🔥 Flavor Upgrades (optional)
Buffalo style: Add ¼ cup buffalo sauce
Ranch: Add 1 tsp ranch seasoning
Mexican-style: Add taco seasoning + pepper jack cheese
Garlic parmesan: Add minced garlic + parmesan instead of cheddar
Want me to tailor this for what you have in your fridge right now?
