Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken
An Irresistible Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe
There’s nothing quite like coming home to the comforting aroma of a meal that’s been simmering away in the slow cooker all day. This Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken is a hearty, soul-warming dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep time and a set-it-and-forget-it approach, it’s ideal for those who want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the combination of flavors in the creamy ranch sauce is simply irresistible!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 medium russet potatoes, cubed
- 2 cups baby carrots
- 1 (23 oz.) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 (1 oz.) packet dry ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 cup half-and-half
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika, optional
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place the baby carrots and cubed potatoes in the slow cooker.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper and place them on top of the vegetables.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, half-and-half, and paprika (if using). Stir until well combined.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 7-8 hours, until the chicken and vegetables are cooked through.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot, alongside rice or noodles if desired.
Tips for Success
For the best results, ensure the chicken breasts are fully thawed before cooking. If you prefer thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of half-and-half or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to mix in other vegetables like green beans or peas for added color and nutrition. You can also substitute the russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish is rich in protein and provides a good amount of vegetables, making it a balanced meal. However, the exact nutritional content will depend on the specific brands of ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking.
What can I use instead of half-and-half? You can substitute with whole milk or a mixture of milk and cream for similar creaminess.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken as much as we do. It’s a delightful recipe that’s sure to please everyone at the table. We’d love to hear about your experience, so please leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out!