Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken and Potatoes
Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken And Potatoes
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 500 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a slow cooker kinda night? Let's be real, sometimes you just need a meal that practically cooks itself. Ever wondered how to get that classic ranch flavor in a super easy dish? Well, my Slow cooker ranch chicken recipe is here to save the day.
A Taste of Home: Ranch Chicken, Slow Cooked
This recipe is inspired by classic American comfort food. We're talking creamy, dreamy, and satisfying. Slow cooker creamy ranch chicken is perfect for those busy weeknights.
This easy slow cooker recipes takes about 10 minutes to prep. Then let your slow cooker do its magic for 3- 8 hours.
It makes enough for 4 hungry folks.
Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Crock Pot Recipe
One of the best things? This recipe is packed with protein, thanks to the chicken. It is also relatively easy to customise.
Honestly, this Crockpot ranch chicken recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you crave comfort food recipes . It’s also special because it transforms simple ingredients into a flavour explosion.
It makes amazing, tender chicken in a creamy sauce.
Grab your slow cooker, and let’s get cooking!
Let's Talk Ingredients & Equipment for the BEST Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken
Okay, friends, let’s dive into what you'll need to make this incredible Slow cooker ranch chicken . Honestly, it's so easy, you'll kick yourself for not trying it sooner.
This is more than just a Crockpot ranch chicken recipe , it's your new best friend for weeknight slow cooker meals .
Main Ingredients: Keeping it Real
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: 1.5 - 2 lbs (680g - 907g) .
- Baby potatoes, halved if they are too big: 1.5 lbs (680g) .
- Ranch seasoning mix: 1 (1 oz / 28g) packet . I swear by the Hidden Valley packets.
- Cream of chicken soup: 1 (10.5 oz / 298g) can .
- Sour cream: ½ cup (120ml) . Full-fat is best, but low-fat works in a pinch.
- Milk: ½ cup (120ml) .
- Garlic powder: ½ tsp (optional) .
- Salt & pepper: To taste, but remember the ranch is already salty!
- Olive oil or melted butter: 1 tbsp (15ml, optional) .
- Fresh parsley: For garnish, because we're fancy like that!
For the chicken, aim for plump, pink breasts or thighs. With the slow cooker creamy ranch chicken remember good quality meat will always give you a better result.
Skip anything that looks pale or feels slimy. The potatoes should be firm and free of sprouts.
Seasoning Notes: Ranch and Beyond
The ranch seasoning is the star, of course! But garlic powder adds another layer. It really elevates the creamy chicken crock pot recipe .
If you are feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a serious kick. A little bit of ranch goes a long way! This is what makes the slow cooker chicken and potatoes sing.
Don't have Ranch seasoning mix? The flavors of the mix, include a combination of dried buttermilk, garlic, onion, herbs (like dill, parsley, and chives), and spices.
Check the internet for recipes if you want to make your own.
Equipment Needed: Simple is Key
All you need is a slow cooker, at least a 4-quart size. I use my trusty Crock-Pot. A small mixing bowl and whisk for the sauce are also helpful.
If you do not have a whisk, a fork works. And measuring cups and spoons, of course.
The secret is to let it all mingle and get cozy in the slow cooker. Before you know it, you'll have a pot of pure, unadulterated comfort food, This recipe is perfect for the weeknight slow cooker meals you are planning!
Getting Saucy with Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken
Honestly, who doesn't love a good easy slow cooker recipe ? Especially when it involves minimal effort and maximum flavour.
I'm talkin' about this slow cooker creamy ranch chicken and potato situation. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer. It's the ultimate comfort food recipes for a busy weeknight.
Prep is a breeze, and the end result is a creamy, dreamy, ranch-flavored explosion. Let’s dive in.
Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
- Essential Mise en Place: Grab 1.5 – 2 lbs chicken, 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, one (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix , a can of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper and parsley.
- Time-Saving Tip: Chop those potatoes in advance! Stick 'em in water to prevent browning, sorted.
- Safety First: No raw chicken touching anything else. Wash your hands, surfaces, you know the drill.
Step-by-Step Process: Crockpot Ranch Chicken Recipe Made Easy
- Grease your slow cooker. Stop the chicken from sticking, yeah?
- Chuck in your halved baby potatoes. This is your base.
- Lay the chicken on top of the potatoes. Make sure to cover them.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the chicken and potatoes. Go wild!
- Whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and garlic powder in a bowl. It helps create the creamy ranch chicken and potatoes.
- Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and potatoes. Get it all saucy.
- Cook on low for 6- 8 hours or high for 3- 4 hours . Until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken and stir! Serve it up.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes
- Don't overcook it! Dry chicken is the enemy. It's Slow cooker ranch chicken not rubber chicken.
- Want extra flavour? Sear the chicken first in a hot pan. Adds a nice crust.
- If the sauce is too thin, mix cornstarch and water. Then stir that slurry in at the end. Cook on high to thicken. If the sauce is too thick and can add a little milk and stir.
- For those who are cutting on calories, try using greek yogurt instead of cream of chicken soup, but add more seasonings to taste to achieve that creamy chicken crock pot recipe.
So there you have it – my ridiculously easy and delicious Slow cooker ranch chicken recipe. Perfect for those weeknight slow cooker meals .
Honestly, it’s so good, it’s practically addictive. Get cooking, you legend!. It's a real crowd-pleaser!
Recipe Notes for Your Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken Masterpiece
Right then, before you dive headfirst into making this slow cooker ranch chicken , let's chat about a few things that’ll make your life easier.
Honestly, I’ve been there, done that, and learned a thing or two along the way about easy slow cooker recipes .
So, listen up.
Plating Like a Pro: Serving Suggestions That Shine
Okay, presentation matters. Creamy ranch chicken and potatoes looks amazing just as it is, but a little touch can go a long way.
Think about serving it in a rustic bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley – proper cheffy! On the side, some steamed green beans or a crisp salad cuts through the richness perfectly.
And don't forget some crusty bread to mop up that creamy sauce! Maybe even a crisp glass of lemonade!
Storage Savvy: Keep It Fresh!
Right, leftovers. If you're lucky enough to have any of this creamy chicken crock pot recipe left, store it properly.
Pop it in an airtight container and it’ll happily sit in the fridge for 3-4 days . Freezing? Yeah, you can do that too! It'll keep for about 2-3 months .
When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up, especially if it’s been frozen. Microwave or simmer gently on the hob.
Twist It Up: Variations for Every Taste
Fancy a bit of a change? No worries! This crockpot ranch chicken recipe is pretty flexible.
Want to go low-carb? Swap the potatoes for cauliflower florets. Need a dairy-free version? Use coconut milk instead of regular milk and find a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
Boom! Done. Easy dietary adaptations are always good.
Nutrition Lowdown: Feel Good Food
Alright, so this slow cooker creamy ranch chicken is proper comfort food. Each serving gives you around 450-550 calories . It’s packed with 40-50g of protein from the chicken.
Just watch the sodium – that ranch seasoning can be a bit cheeky. But hey, a little bit of what you fancy does you good, eh? Plus, it's so simple, so many weeknight slow cooker meals can come of it!.
So there you have it! A few extra tips to make this slow cooker chicken and potatoes recipe even easier.
Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking, love!
This slow cooker ranch chicken is proper winner, you know?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken in this Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken recipe?
While it's tempting to use frozen chicken for convenience, it's generally recommended to thaw your chicken first for the best results. Frozen chicken releases a lot of water as it cooks in the slow cooker, which can dilute the sauce and affect the overall texture and flavor. Nobody wants a watery sauce, do they?
My sauce is too thin! How do I thicken my slow cooker creamy ranch chicken?
No worries, that's a common issue! The easiest way to thicken the sauce is to mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking on high. You can also remove some of the sauce and simmer it on the stovetop to reduce it.
Just like thickening up gravy for your Sunday roast!
Can I make Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken ahead of time, and how should I store it?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Allow the chicken and potatoes to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage (up to 2-3 months).
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through – a great way to prep for the week ahead.
Is there a way to make this slow cooker creamy ranch chicken healthier?
Definitely! You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lower-fat option and reduce sodium by using a homemade ranch seasoning mix. Consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts (or a mix) for richer flavor, but trim any excess fat beforehand.
You could also load up on veggies like green beans or broccoli alongside it, for a complete and healthy meal.
What if I don't have cream of chicken soup? What's a good substitute for this slow cooker ranch chicken?
No cream of chicken soup? No problem! You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead. Alternatively, you can make a quick and easy homemade version using chicken broth, milk, flour, and some seasonings. There are tons of recipes online, so have a search – you'll be surprised how simple it is!
This is also a chance to control ingredients and make your slow cooker dish even more delightful.
