Creamy Ranch Chicken in the Crock Pot Recipe

Introduction

This easy Chicken Crock Pot recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. It features a creamy ranch sauce that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy meals. Simply combine the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. This step adds flavor but is optional.
2. Step 2: In the crock pot, whisk together the ranch seasoning mix, condensed cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Step 3: Place the browned chicken breasts into the crock pot and spoon some sauce over the top to coat evenly.
4. Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Step 5: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken. Cover to melt the cheese.
6. Step 6: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot, pairing well with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add sliced mushrooms or diced onions to the crock pot before cooking.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of cream of chicken soup for a lighter sauce.
• Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick.
• To keep chicken moist, avoid lifting the lid during cooking.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. If you must use frozen, increase the cooking time and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

What can I serve with this crock pot chicken?

This creamy chicken pairs well with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.

Creamy Ranch Chicken in the Crock Pot Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 123 reviews

This easy and delicious Chicken Crock Pot recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts slow-cooked in a flavorful blend of ranch seasoning, cream of chicken soup, and aromatic spices. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, it’s a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

• Author: Zane
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Seasonings

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Liquids and Soup

• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Additional

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season evenly with ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and freshly ground black pepper on both sides to ensure a well-seasoned base.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. This step locks in flavor and improves texture.
3. Prepare the Crock Pot Mixture: In a bowl, mix together the condensed cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until smooth. This creamy mixture will keep the chicken moist while cooking.
4. Add Ingredients to Crock Pot: Place the seared chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the soup and broth mixture over the chicken evenly, covering them as much as possible.
5. Cook the Chicken: Cover the crock pot with its lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked, tender, and easily shreddable at the end of this time.
6. Add Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken. Cover to allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese has melted, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the chicken hot, ideally alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add chopped onions or minced garlic into the crock pot before cooking.
• You can substitute shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese if preferred.
• To reduce sodium, use low-sodium chicken broth and reduced-salt ranch seasoning.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Keywords: Slow Cooker Chicken, Crock Pot Chicken, Easy Chicken Dinner, Creamy Ranch Chicken, Cheddar Chicken, Comfort Food