Description
This comforting Ranch Chicken Crock Pot recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts slow-cooked in a creamy ranch-flavored sauce. Enhanced with garlic, onion, and a hint of black pepper, this easy-to-make dish can be optionally seared beforehand for extra flavor and topped with cheddar cheese and fresh parsley. Perfect for a hassle-free weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken (Optional): 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 adds extra flavor but can be skipped.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the crockpot, combine cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning mix, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir well to create a uniform sauce.
- Add Chicken to Crockpot: Place the chicken breasts into the crockpot and coat them thoroughly with the prepared sauce mixture.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the lid, shred the chicken breasts using two forks directly in the crockpot, and mix the shredded chicken back into the creamy sauce.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the sour cream to add extra creaminess and richness. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Searing chicken is optional but recommended for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels in the dish.
- For a thicker sauce, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce liquid slightly.
- Serve over rice, pasta, or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 7 hours (low) or 3 to 4 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: ranch chicken, crock pot chicken, slow cooker recipes, creamy chicken, easy dinner, comfort food
