Crockpot Ranch Chicken is an easy, flavorful, and comforting meal that will become a family favorite in no time.
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This dish features tender chicken slow-cooked in a creamy ranch-infused sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Serve it over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a hearty dinner that everyone will love!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Crockpot or slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
Ingredients Overview
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for a tender and juicy result.
- Ranch Seasoning: The star of the dish, providing zesty and herby flavors.
- Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess to the sauce and makes it irresistibly rich.
- Chicken Broth: Keeps the chicken moist and creates a luscious sauce.
- Optional Add-Ins: Shredded cheddar cheese or cooked vegetables like peas or carrots for extra flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
2. Mix the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ranch seasoning, softened cream cheese, and chicken broth. Whisk until smooth.
3. Assemble and Cook
- Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.
- Cover the crockpot with a lid and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender.
4. Optional Add-Ins
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken if desired.
- Stir in cooked vegetables if you want to make it a one-pot meal.
5. Shred or Serve Whole
- For a shredded chicken dish, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the sauce. Mix well to coat every piece in the creamy ranch sauce. Alternatively, serve the chicken whole with the sauce spooned over the top.
Recipe Tips
- Use Thighs for Extra Juiciness: Chicken thighs are less likely to dry out compared to breasts.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes to let it reduce slightly.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- Fluffy white rice or buttery mashed potatoes
- Pasta, such as penne or egg noodles
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans
- A fresh green salad or coleslaw for a lighter side
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but adjust the cooking time slightly and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?
Absolutely! A blend of dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt makes a great homemade alternative.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and ensure your ranch seasoning is dairy-free.
Can I freeze Crockpot Ranch Chicken?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
- Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Serve with a side of corn on the cob or sautéed spinach for a complete meal.
This Crockpot Ranch Chicken is a foolproof recipe that’s creamy, savory, and satisfying. It’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!
Crockpot Ranch Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 packet 1 oz ranch seasoning mix
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
- Mix the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ranch seasoning, softened cream cheese, and chicken broth. Whisk until smooth.
- Assemble and Cook
- Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.
- Cover the crockpot with a lid and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender.
- Optional Add-Ins
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken if desired.
- Stir in cooked vegetables if you want to make it a one-pot meal.
- Shred or Serve Whole
- For a shredded chicken dish, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the sauce. Mix well to coat every piece in the creamy ranch sauce. Alternatively, serve the chicken whole with the sauce spooned over the top.
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