Can i use the primer method of chalk paint on laminated cabinets?

I have three white laminted which were free in my laundry room. I have a little bit of everything stashed in there, and below there are two more with two drawers. I would like to know if i could use the chalk paint idea for a primer, then go from there, I want them a cream dirty looking white because I have dark counter tops out there and I am in process po painting trim in room a light/med brown,, could b darker for my taste but hubby and I compromised on the medium brown.. what would you do?, this is also kindy a mud room if i didn't say that before, We keep shoes right there on a book case which is getting a makeover very very soon! but was more worried about the old laminted cupboards. thank you for reading this...dawn