Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This Ranch Chicken Breast Crock Pot recipe is your answer. It's a simple, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights, offering a fantastic balance of taste and convenience. This recipe is a go-to for quick dinner ideas, perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts and beginners alike. Let’s get started on this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. If you're using frozen chicken, ensure it's thawed completely before cooking. This will help ensure even cooking.
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Season and Add Broth: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken breasts. Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker. Adding the optional chopped onion at this stage adds a nice subtle depth of flavor.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Shred and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. You can return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker to keep it warm in the remaining juices.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve immediately. This delicious and healthy meal pairs perfectly with rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Ranch Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken breasts for even cooking. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more or less ranch seasoning, depending on your preference. You can also experiment with other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is great for meal prepping! You can prepare the chicken in advance and reheat it whenever you need a quick and easy meal.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Ranch Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the slow cooker for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Ranch Chicken: Stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
- BBQ Ranch Chicken: Combine half a packet of ranch seasoning with half a packet of your favorite BBQ seasoning for a unique flavor combination.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a recipe yielding 6 servings and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This easy ranch chicken breast crock pot recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and best recipes. Its versatility and delicious flavor make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Enjoy!