why make this recipe
The Ranch Chicken Crock Pot recipe is a go-to meal for busy families. It is simple to prepare and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for those hectic days. The crock pot does all the work, and the flavors meld beautifully while the chicken cooks. Plus, it’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it a favorite for both kids and adults alike!
how to make Ranch Chicken Crock Pot
Ingredients :
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 can, 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 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)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions :
- If desired, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side). This step is optional but adds extra flavor.
- In the crockpot, add the cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Place the chicken breasts into the crockpot and coat them with the sauce mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir it into the creamy sauce.
- Stir in sour cream for extra creaminess and flavor. Garnish with shredded cheese and parsley, if desired.
how to serve Ranch Chicken Crock Pot
Serve the Ranch Chicken over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also enjoy it in tortillas or on top of a salad for a lighter option. Adding extra cheese and fresh parsley on top enhances the dish’s presentation and flavor.
how to store Ranch Chicken Crock Pot
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 2-3 months. Just ensure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
tips to make Ranch Chicken Crock Pot
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in ranch dressing for a few hours before cooking.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste by adding more spices or herbs.
- Use low-sodium cream of chicken soup and broth if you prefer a lighter option.
Make-ahead & meal prep for Ranch Chicken Crock Pot
RANCH CHICKEN CROCK POT IS PERFECT FOR MEAL PREP BECAUSE IT REHEATS WELL AND STAYS CREAMY. YOU CAN COOK A BIG BATCH ONCE AND USE IT IN DIFFERENT WAYS THROUGHOUT THE WEEK, LIKE OVER RICE, PASTA, MASHED POTATOES, OR EVEN IN WRAPS AND SANDWICHES.
FOR MEAL PREP, DIVIDE THE COOKED RANCH CHICKEN INTO INDIVIDUAL AIRTIGHT CONTAINERS WITH YOUR CHOSEN SIDE (RICE, PASTA, OR VEGGIES). STORE THEM IN THE FRIDGE FOR 3–4 DAYS. IF YOU WANT TO FREEZE, LEAVE A LITTLE SPACE IN EACH CONTAINER FOR EXPANSION AND LABEL WITH THE DATE. TO REHEAT, ADD A SPLASH OF CHICKEN BROTH OR MILK IF THE SAUCE HAS THICKENED TOO MUCH AND WARM GENTLY IN THE MICROWAVE OR ON THE STOVETOP.
variation (if any)
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans directly into the crock pot for a complete meal. For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to add an extra hour if cooking on low or 30 minutes if cooking on high.
Can I use homemade ranch seasoning instead of a packet?
Absolutely! Homemade ranch seasoning works great and allows you to control the ingredients and flavors.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute with cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade white sauce as an alternative.
Ranch Chicken Crock Pot
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup 1 can
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream for extra creaminess
- 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 garnish
- to taste Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- If desired, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side). This step is optional but adds extra flavor.
- In the crockpot, add the cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Place the chicken breasts into the crockpot and coat them with the sauce mixture.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir it into the creamy sauce.
- Stir in sour cream for extra creaminess and flavor. Garnish with shredded cheese and parsley, if desired.