This Crockpot Ranch Chicken is super easy and tasty! Just throw chicken breasts, ranch seasoning, and cream cheese in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic!
You’ll love how the chicken turns out so juicy and flavorful—it’s perfect over rice or with veggies. Plus, who doesn’t love a hands-off meal that tastes like you slaved all day? 😄
I often serve it with a side salad for a nice balance. It’s so simple and always a hit at dinner! You’ll want to keep this recipe handy for busy nights.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their tenderness and ease. If you’re looking to cut some fat, you can use chicken thighs instead. They will keep the dish juicy and flavorful, which I personally prefer!
Ranch Dressing Mix: This mix adds a burst of flavor. If you’re out of it, you can easily make your own with dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. I love adding a bit of buttermilk powder if I have it on hand for extra tang.
Cream of Chicken Soup: A classic ingredient here, but you can use cream of mushroom soup or even a homemade creamy sauce if you prefer. I often make my own with a roux and chicken broth—healthier and tastes better!
Milk or Heavy Cream: If you want a lighter version, low-fat milk or even almond milk works fine. However, heavy cream does provide a richer texture, which I think really elevates the dish.
Cooked Rice: While rice is a great base, you can use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier or gluten-free option. I love serving this with brown rice for added nutrients!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Moist and Tender?
To keep your chicken juicy and tender, using a slow cooker is perfect as it allows the chicken to cook slowly in flavorful liquid. Here are some tips:
- Always place the chicken at the bottom of the crockpot; this way, it absorbs all the flavors.
- Ensure the chicken is fully coated in the sauce mixture for even moisture.
- Don’t rush the cooking time; 6-8 hours on low heat is ideal to break down the chicken fibers.
- Shred the chicken right in the pot; this lets it soak up the sauce even more!
How to Make Pioneer Woman Crockpot Ranch Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (about 10.5 oz)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup milk or heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 6 to 8 hours of cooking time in the slow cooker. It’s a real set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer so they cook evenly.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and milk or heavy cream. Use a whisk or spoon to stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This mixture will be super flavorful and will coat the chicken beautifully!
3. Assemble in the Crockpot:
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure the chicken is well-coated for the best flavor. Season it with a bit of salt and pepper to taste—remember, you can adjust this later if needed!
4. Cooking Time:
Put the lid on the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours. You want the chicken to become tender and easy to shred; it should be soft enough to pull apart with a fork.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, take a pair of forks and shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Stir it around in the creamy sauce to mix it nicely. This is where all the flavors come together!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the ranch chicken over a bed of cooked rice. For a pop of color and fresh flavor, sprinkle the top with some chopped parsley. Enjoy your delicious meal with family or friends!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours. It’s best to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. If you’re short on time, consider thawing the chicken in the fridge overnight for more even cooking.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! You can use cream of mushroom soup or even a homemade version if you prefer. For a lighter option, try a mixture of plain Greek yogurt and chicken broth for a creamy effect without the calories.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating!
What Should I Serve with Ranch Chicken?
This dish is fantastic served over cooked rice, but it also pairs well with mashed potatoes, quinoa, or steamed vegetables. For a low-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice or a bed of fresh greens for a light meal.
