Ranch Chicken Crock Pot Recipe

Ah, my friend, gather ‘round! Today I want to share a recipe that has a special place in my heart. Imagine coming home after a long day, and the fragrance that greets you is like a warm hug from your grandma—this Ranch Chicken Crock Pot dish does just that! It’s creamy, tender chicken enveloped in a rich ranch-flavored sauce that dances on the palate. Not only is it simple to whip up, but it also fills your home with a comforting aroma that’ll make your family forget whatever else has been bothering them that day.

Why you’ll love this recipe

This recipe is a game-changer, and here’s why: it’s both a time-saver and a taste sensation. Think of it as your trusty sidekick on busy weeknights when you’re juggling chores, kids, and a hundred other things. Pop everything into the crockpot, set it, and forget it—that’s the beauty of slow cooking! While the magical alchemy of flavors is happening in your kitchen, you’ve got time to kick back with a glass of wine or even sneak in a little Netflix.

And the flavor? Oh, my dear friend, it’s like a creamy ranch dressing threw a fabulous party with tender chicken and velvety cream of chicken soup. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm embrace at the end of the day. Plus, it’s versatile! Pair it with rice, serve it over mashed potatoes, or stuff it into tortillas for mouth-watering burritos.

Gather these ingredients

To bring this culinary masterpiece to life, you’ll need an ensemble of ingredients that are as friendly as your favorite pair of sweatpants:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main attraction, juicy and ready to soak up all that flavor. Chicken thighs can work too if you’re feeling adventurous; they’ll add an extra depth to the dish.

• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix: This is what gives our dish that signature taste. You could make your own blend if you have the spices on hand—how cool is that?

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: The creamy base that melds everything together. You can substitute with cream of mushroom for a flavorful twist!

• 1/2 cup chicken broth: This adds moisture and enhances the chicken’s flavor. Homemade broth can elevate it to a whole new level if you have some lying around.

• 1/2 cup sour cream: For that luscious creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a fantastic stand-in if you’re feeling healthy!

• Herbals:

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better, right?
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and aroma.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper: Just the right kick.

• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional): If you want that gorgeous sear. It’s not necessary, but trust me, every little bit of flavor counts!

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): A cheesy topping that brings everything together like a cozy blanket! Feel free to play with different cheeses for a unique flair.

• Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle of greenery never hurt anyone. It’s all about presentation, darling!

Preparing Ranch Chicken Crock Pot Recipe

Let’s get our hands deliciously dirty, shall we?

1. Sear the Chicken (Optional): If you’re feeling fancy, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step isn’t strictly necessary, but oh, the flavor it adds!

2. Mix it Up: In your crockpot, add the cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning mix, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Give it a good stir to combine those ingredients into a creamy symphony.

3. Chicken Time: Place the chicken breasts into the crockpot. Make sure they are coated well with that delightful sauce mixture.

4. Set and Forget: Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and falling apart—this is your cue to shred!

5. Shred and Stir: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot and stir it into the creamy sauce.

6. Add the Creaminess: Stir in sour cream for that extra layer of flavor and creaminess. Voilà!

7. Garnish (if you want): Top it with shredded cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Best way to enjoy it

This dish is as flexible as your yoga instructor! You can serve it over fluffy rice, nestled in a warm tortilla for burritos, or even spooned over mashed potatoes for a hearty comfort meal. Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed veggies to round out the meal. And don’t forget that glass of white wine!

Storage and reheating tips

Planning on leftovers? Fantastic! The beauty of this recipe is that it stores beautifully. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container in the fridge, where it will keep for up to four days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it up on the stove, just add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Want to save it for later? You can freeze the shredded chicken mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating, and you’ve got a ready-made dinner waiting for you!

Pro chef tips

1. Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. A pinch of cayenne or some red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick!

2. No Chicken Broth?: Water will do in a pinch, but it won’t be as flavorful.

3. Sour Cream Substitute: If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt provides the creaminess without the calories.

4. Vegetarian Twist: Swap out chicken for hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or a combination of zucchini and bell peppers. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Creative Twists

The world is your oyster! Feeling adventurous? Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach for a burst of color and flavor. You could also incorporate some black beans for protein if you want to retain that scrumptious creamy texture but give it a hearty bite. The options are virtually limitless, my friend!

Common questions

• Can I use frozen chicken? Yes! Just extend the cook time by an hour or so.
• What if I don’t have ranch seasoning? You can mix your own with equal parts dried dill, neat garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Is it gluten-free? Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure your ranch mix is certified gluten-free.
• What sides go well with this? Anything from a crisp green salad to buttery mashed potatoes will play perfectly alongside!
• How long do leftovers last? In the fridge, they’ll be good for about 4 days.

It’s hard to put into words how wonderful this recipe is, but I’ll give it a shot. This Ranch Chicken Crock Pot dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Cozy up, take a bite, and transport yourself back to simpler times filled with warmth and laughter. I can’t wait for you to try this at home. Don’t hesitate to add your own spin, and definitely swing back here to share your culinary adventures with me! Happy cooking!

Print Recipe

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Ranch Chicken Crock Pot Recipe

Cooking Method: Simmering Courses: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course Recipe Keys: C Comfort Food High Protein M Make Ahead Non Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 6-7 mins Rest Time 37 mins Total Time 53 mins

Cooking Temp: low  C Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 15 Calories: 450

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Creamy, tender chicken enveloped in a rich ranch-flavored sauce, this Ranch Chicken Crock Pot dish is perfect for busy weeknights and brings a warm, homey feeling to your dinner table.

Ingredients for Ranch Chicken Crock Pot

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Main Ingredients

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Chicken thighs can be used as a substitute.)
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (Homemade blend can be used.)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (Cream of mushroom can be substituted.)
• ¹⁄₂ cup chicken broth (Homemade broth is preferred.)
• ¹⁄₂ cup sour cream (Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.)
• ¹⁄₂ tsp garlic powder
• ¹⁄₂ tsp onion powder
• ¹⁄₄ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil (Optional for searing.)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Optional for topping.)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley (For garnish.)

Instructions

Cooking the Chicken

1. Sear the Chicken (Optional)

   Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
   This step is not necessary but adds flavor.
   Mark as complete

2. Mix it Up

   In your crockpot, add the cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning mix, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
   Mark as complete

3. Chicken Time

   Place the chicken breasts into the crockpot, ensuring they are well-coated with the sauce mixture.
   Mark as complete

4. Set and Forget

   Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
   Shredding happens when the chicken is done.
   Mark as complete

5. Shred and Stir

   Use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot and mix it into the sauce.
   Mark as complete

6. Add the Creaminess

   Stir in sour cream for an extra layer of flavor.
   Mark as complete

7. Garnish (Optional)

   Top with shredded cheese and parsley before serving.
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 450kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 28g44%

Saturated Fat 10g50%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 80mg27%

Sodium 800mg34%

Potassium 600mg18%

Total Carbohydrate 10g4%

Dietary Fiber 1g4%

Sugars 2g

Protein 40g80%

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Vitamin A 500 IU

Vitamin C 2 mg

Calcium 300 mg

Iron 2 mg

Vitamin D 0 IU

Vitamin E 1 IU

Vitamin K 2 mcg

Thiamin 0 mg

Riboflavin 0.2 mg

Niacin 6 mg

Vitamin B6 0.5 mg

Folate 15 mcg

Vitamin B12 1 mcg

Biotin 0 mcg

Pantothenic Acid 0.5 mg

Phosphorus 300 mg

Iodine 0 mcg

Magnesium 30 mg

Zinc 2 mg

Selenium 25 mcg

Copper 0.1 mg

Manganese 0.1 mg

Chromium 0 mcg

Molybdenum 0 mcg

Chloride 0 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Great for leftovers and can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Keywords: Ranch Chicken, Crock Pot, Slow Cooker, Comfort Food