Tired of cooking dinner after a long day? Craving a delicious, healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Then this creamy ranch chicken and potato crock pot recipe is your answer! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a game-changer, making this one of the easiest and most flavorful quick dinner ideas you'll ever try. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and provides a comforting, satisfying meal the whole family will love. It’s a delicious example of homemade cooking that’s surprisingly simple.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered (depending on size)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup ranch dressing (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Potatoes: Rinse the baby potatoes and cut them in half or quarters, ensuring they're roughly the same size for even cooking. Toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Layer in the Crock Pot: Place the seasoned potatoes in the bottom of your slow cooker. Evenly distribute them.
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Add Chicken and Broth: Spread the shredded rotisserie chicken over the potatoes. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and potatoes.
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Stir in Ranch: Pour the ranch dressing over the chicken and potatoes. Gently stir to combine, making sure the potatoes are mostly coated.
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Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
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Add Cheese: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This allows it to melt beautifully.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot. This delicious dish pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, broccoli florets, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor. Add them along with the potatoes.
- Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend.
- Creamy Variation: For an extra creamy texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end of cooking.
- Make it Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare it in the morning and let it cook all day.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This easy crock pot recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't require complicated cooking techniques. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients and smart shortcuts to create delicious and satisfying food recipes. Enjoy your effortless and flavorful dinner!