Crock Pot Creamy Ranch Chicken is a comfort food classic that’s incredibly easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. This slow-cooked dish features tender, juicy chicken bathed in a creamy, ranch-seasoned sauce, perfect for serving over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s as simple as setting it in your slow cooker and letting it work its magic. Whether you’re planning a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds Let’s cooking our Crock Pot Creamy Ranch Chicken.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy ranch chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5–2 lbs)
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 8 oz (1 cup) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for a hint of smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Optional Additions:
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (added in the last 30 minutes of cooking)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for extra creaminess)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
2. Assemble in the Crock Pot
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch seasoning mix, cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
3. Cook Low and Slow
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
4. Shred or Leave Whole
- Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crock pot for a pulled chicken texture, or leave the breasts whole for a more structured dish.
5. Optional Add-Ins
- If using vegetables or cheese, stir them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking, allowing them to heat through.
6. Serve
- Serve the creamy ranch chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta, and garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Tips
- Double the Recipe: This dish scales easily for larger gatherings; just ensure your crock pot can hold the extra ingredients.
- Thicker Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, whisk in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Diet-Friendly: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and low-sodium cream of chicken soup for a lighter version.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Freezer
- Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
Variations
- Spicy Ranch Chicken: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cream mixture for a kick.
- Bacon Ranch Chicken: Top with crumbled crispy bacon before serving for added texture and flavor.
- Vegetable-Packed: Add chopped carrots, green beans, or baby spinach during the last hour of cooking.
- Ranch Chicken Casserole: After cooking, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and cheese, and broil until golden.
Nutrition Details (Per Serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 2 g
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
Q: Can I make this without cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. However, the texture may be slightly different.
Q: What’s the best side dish for this creamy ranch chicken?
Mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or buttered noodles pair beautifully with this dish. A side of roasted vegetables or a green salad complements it well, too.
Q: Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Yes! Sear the chicken in a skillet, then add the sauce ingredients and simmer on low for 30–40 minutes, covered.