why make this recipe
This Ranch Chicken Crock Pot Recipe is easy and hands-off. It makes creamy, tender chicken with little work. You can set the slow cooker and do other things while it cooks. The flavors are mild and family friendly.
introduction
This dish uses simple pantry items and gives a rich, creamy sauce. It works well for busy weeknights or meal prep. If you want more simple ideas like this, check out easy chicken dishes for more recipes.
how to make Ranch Chicken Crock Pot Recipe
- If you like, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sear each chicken breast 2–3 minutes per side until golden. This step is optional but adds flavor.
- Mix the cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in the crockpot. Stir until smooth.
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Spoon the sauce over the chicken so each piece is coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. Cook until the chicken is fully done and easy to shred.
- Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the sauce.
- Stir in the sour cream for a creamier texture. Top with shredded cheddar and parsley if you like. For more dinner ideas that fit this style, try some delicious dinner recipes.
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 Recipe
Serve the shredded chicken over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. It also works inside tortillas for tacos or on toasted bread for a sandwich. Add a side salad or steamed vegetables for a full meal.
how to store Ranch Chicken Crock Pot Recipe
Cool the dish to room temperature within two hours. Place in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Ranch Chicken Crock Pot Recipe
- Use similar-sized chicken breasts so they cook evenly.
- Searing is optional but gives more color and flavor.
- If the sauce is too thin after cooking, remove the chicken, stir in a little cornstarch mixed with water, and heat until it thickens.
- Add sour cream off heat to keep it from breaking.
- Taste the sauce near the end and adjust salt or pepper as needed.
variation (if any)
- Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
- Stir in cooked bacon or green chilies for a different taste.
- Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for spice.
- Make it lighter by using low-fat sour cream and reduced-sodium soup.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: You can, but increase cooking time. For safety, cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours. Check that the chicken reaches 165°F.
Q: Can I skip the sour cream?
A: Yes. The dish will still be creamy from the soup and ranch mix. Add sour cream for extra richness.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce is thick.
Q: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes. Use the sauté function to sear, then cook on high pressure for 10–12 minutes with a quick or natural release. Adjust liquid if needed.
Ranch Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- 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).
- 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.