This easy slow cooker supper is the kind of budget-friendly dinner that feels made for busy weeknights, casual neighborhood get-togethers, and those nights when you want something hearty without standing over the stove. With just three main ingredients, the chicken slowly cooks into a tender, saucy dish as the tomatoes soften and add fresh flavor, giving you a simple meal that tastes like you put in far more effort than you actually did.
Serve this chicken over buttered noodles, fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or toasted sandwich rolls to soak up the juices. A simple green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted broccoli makes it feel like a full meal, and if you're feeding a crowd for National Night Out, a platter with corn on the cob and a big bowl of pasta salad fits right in.
3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Poor Man's National Night Out Supper
Servings: 6
Ingredients
2 pounds raw boneless skinless chicken cutlets
2 cups bright red cherry tomatoes, halved
1 packet dry Italian dressing seasoning mix
Directions
1. Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray if desired. Arrange the raw boneless skinless chicken cutlets in an even layer in the bottom, then scatter the cherry tomato halves over the top and sprinkle the Italian dressing seasoning evenly over everything.
2. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender and the tomatoes have softened into a light sauce.
3. Gently spoon some of the tomato juices over the chicken before serving. If the sauce seems thin, leave the lid off for 10 to 15 minutes on high to let it reduce slightly, then serve warm.
Variations & Tips
Add a starch base: This dish is especially good spooned over rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes because the tomato juices turn into an instant sauce. If I'm making this after work, I'll often prep the slow cooker in the morning and just make noodles at dinnertime.
Boost the pantry flavor: If you don't mind stepping beyond the strict three-ingredient version, add a splash of chicken broth or a few tablespoons of grated Parmesan at the end for a richer sauce and a little extra body.
Use chicken breasts or thighs: Chicken cutlets cook quickly, but regular boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs also work well. Just make sure the chicken reaches a safe cooked temperature and adjust the time if the pieces are thicker.
Keep the tomatoes on top: Placing the tomato halves over the chicken helps them break down gently as they cook, which keeps the chicken moist. If you want more texture, stir in a few fresh tomato halves right before serving.
Make it party-friendly: For a casual neighborhood supper, transfer the cooked chicken and tomatoes to a big serving platter and garnish with chopped parsley or basil if you have some on hand. It looks a lot more festive with almost no extra work.