RANCH CHICKEN CROCK POT EASY

It’s the end of a long day, and the thought of another complicated dinner recipe is enough to make anyone reach for takeout, but tonight is different because you are coming home to a creamy, flavorful Ranch Chicken Crock Pot that practically makes itself, so get ready to be amazed because I promise you it’s easier than you think!

Why You’ll Love This Ranch Chicken Crock Pot

Okay, friend, let’s be real: we all need those go-to recipes that are simple, satisfying, and require minimal effort. This Ranch Chicken Crock Pot recipe is exactly that! I’m talking about juicy, tender chicken smothered in a creamy, tangy ranch sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. What makes it so special, though, is that it’s made in a slow cooker, meaning you can set it and forget it. Busy day? No problem! Just toss everything in the crock pot in the morning, and you’ll come home to a delicious, home-cooked meal. Plus, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or even in tacos. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

What You’ll Need:

• 1.5 – 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet (1 oz) Ranch dressing mix
• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup milk or chicken broth
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup cooked, crumbled bacon

Ingredient Notes:

• Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience, but you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just be sure to trim any excess fat.
• Ranch Dressing Mix: Use your favorite brand. If you’re watching your sodium intake, look for a low-sodium version.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds a creamy base to the sauce. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
• Milk/Chicken Broth: This helps to thin out the sauce. You can use either milk or chicken broth, depending on your preference. Milk will make the sauce creamier, while chicken broth will add a bit more flavor.
• Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easier blending. This is crucial for a smooth and creamy sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese: Totally optional, but it adds a nice cheesy touch. You can substitute with any cheese you like – Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan would be delicious.
• Bacon: A little crumbled bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor. I highly recommend it!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)
• Mixing Bowl
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Getting Started:

1. Lightly grease your crock pot with cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking.
2. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock pot in a single layer.
3. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper. Don’t overdo it, as the Ranch dressing mix is already quite salty.

Making the Ranch Sauce:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the Ranch dressing mix, cream of chicken soup, and milk or chicken broth. Stir until well combined and smooth.
2. Add the softened cream cheese to the mixture and stir until it is fully incorporated. Make sure there are no lumps! This step is key to a creamy sauce.

Slow Cooking the Chicken:

1. Pour the Ranch sauce over the chicken breasts in the crock pot, making sure they are evenly coated.
2. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.

Shredding and Finishing:

1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crock pot and shred it with two forks.
2. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir it into the sauce.
3. If desired, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
4. Cover and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Crock Pot Ranch Chicken

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk or chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add some chopped vegetables to the crock pot along with the chicken. Broccoli, carrots, potatoes, or onions would all be great additions.
• Spice it Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the ingredients in the crock pot the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, just pop it into the crock pot and start cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This Ranch Chicken Crock Pot is incredibly versatile, and you can serve it in so many different ways! Here are a few of my favorite ideas:

• Over Rice: Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to the rich and flavorful Ranch chicken.
• Pasta: Toss the shredded chicken and sauce with your favorite pasta shape. Penne, rotini, or bow tie pasta would all work well. You could even use it as a filling for stuffed shells.
• Tacos or Burritos: Use the Ranch chicken as a filling for tacos or burritos. Top with your favorite taco toppings, such as shredded lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream.
• Sandwiches or Wraps: Spread the Ranch chicken on a toasted bun or wrap with some lettuce and tomato for a quick and easy lunch.
• Salad Topping: Add the Ranch chicken to a salad for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.

Variations and Substitutions

• Creamy Italian Chicken: Substitute the Ranch dressing mix with Italian dressing mix for a completely different flavor profile.
• Buffalo Ranch Chicken: Add a few tablespoons of your favorite buffalo wing sauce to the Ranch sauce for a spicy kick.
• BBQ Ranch Chicken: Mix in a little BBQ sauce with the Ranch dressing mix for a sweet and smoky flavor.
• Low Carb Option: Serve the Ranch chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb meal. You can also try this Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole for another great low-carb option.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Storage: Store leftover Ranch Chicken Crock Pot in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin out the sauce. You can also reheat it in the crock pot on low heat.

Can I Freeze Ranch Chicken Crock Pot?

Yes, you can freeze this Ranch Chicken Crock Pot! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed above. I find that the texture of the sauce can change slightly after freezing, but it still tastes delicious.

Other Recipes You Might Like

If you’re loving this easy chicken recipe, I have a few more that I think you’ll really enjoy!

• For a sweet and spicy kick, try this Bang Bang Chicken. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
• If you’re looking for an indulgent pasta dish, you have to try this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ultimate. It’s guaranteed to impress!

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my go-to recipe for a ridiculously easy and delicious Ranch Chicken Crock Pot. I hope you love it as much as my family does! It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a comforting and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try, and let me know what you think! I’m confident that this will become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Happy cooking, friend!