Introduction
Welcome to a deliciously simple weeknight dinner that will leave your family asking for seconds! This Ranch Chicken Crock Pot recipe is not just easy to prepare; it’s a creamy, comforting dish that fills your home with enticing aromas as it cooks. Let your slow cooker do most of the work, and you’ll be rewarded with tender, flavorful chicken bathed in a ranch-infused cream sauce. Perfect served over rice or pasta, this dish brings together all the cozy feelings that come with a home-cooked meal!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cooked rice or pasta for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6-7 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot, ensuring they’re evenly spread out.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well blended.
- Pour this rich and creamy mixture over the chicken in the crock pot, making sure the chicken is well-coated.
- Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the chicken to become beautifully tender.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken. Cover it again and allow the cheese to melt into a delicious, gooey topping.
- Once the cooking time is up, shred the chicken using two forks directly in the crock pot. This will help mix it with the savory sauce, creating a delightful combination.
- Serve this comforting ranch chicken over your choice of cooked rice or pasta, and don’t forget to garnish with the fresh chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick of flavor, consider stirring in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the creamy mixture. You can also substitute the chicken breasts with thighs for a richer taste. Leftovers can be refrigerated for a couple of days, making for a flavorful lunch option!
Cooking Techniques
Crock pot cooking is all about the low-and-slow method, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. This recipe illustrates how to effectively use your slow cooker to create a one-pot meal. The key is to avoid lifting the lid too often, as this can release heat and prolong the cooking time. Make sure to check the chicken with a meat thermometer, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
FAQ
Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and place them in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate. In the morning, just transfer it to the crock pot and cook as directed.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be easily transformed into a delicious sandwich filling, incorporated into a wrap, or served atop a fresh salad for a quick lunch option!
Conclusion
This Ranch Chicken Crock Pot recipe is surely a keeper in your family’s meal rotation. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a fantastic way to create a cozy dinner that everyone will love. Enjoy the comforting taste of creamy ranch chicken, and happy cooking!