Slow-Cooker Ranch Chicken

If you’ve got a slow cooker, we’ve got a recipe you have to try! This slow-cooker ranch chicken is a comforting meal that cooks in a single pot, minimizing the number of dishes for cleanup. Creamy, flavorful and warming, it’s one of those easy chicken dinners that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

In this recipe, chicken breasts are cooked slowly until they become tender and shreddable. Cream cheese and a can of condensed cream of chicken soup are added to give the chicken a rich, creamy consistency, and the dish is served over rice or noodles. It’s a wonderful set-it-and-forget-it meal, and it’ll make you want to keep more slow-cooker chicken breast recipes within reach!

Slow-Cooker Ranch Chicken Ingredients

• Chicken broth: Use store-bought chicken broth for the quickest preparation. If you prefer to make chicken broth from scratch, it will elevate all the flavors.
• Ranch salad dressing mix: You can find packets of this popular seasoning mix at the grocery store, or make your own ranch dressing and dip mix.
• Chicken breasts: We call for boneless skinless chicken breasts, but you can substitute boneless chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat.
• Cream of chicken soup: Condensed soup is a miracle worker for casseroles and sauces. It acts as a roux (a thickening agent) to give the sauce a thick, creamy consistency. Use store-bought condensed soup or a homemade substitute for cream of chicken soup.
• Cream cheese: Cream cheese melts into the sauce, giving the chicken a slightly sweet flavor and an incredible texture.
• Noodles or rice: You can serve this creamy chicken over noodles or rice; they’re both delicious. If you choose noodles, consider thick egg noodles, which will give the sauce something to stick to.
• Optional toppings: Add a cheesy finish with shredded cheddar cheese, or boost the savory vibes with crumbled cooked bacon and chopped green onions.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the chicken

In a 4- or 5-quart slow cooker, combine the chicken broth and ranch dressing mix. Add the chicken, and cover the slow cooker. Cook on low for six hours.

Step 2: Shred the chicken

Remove the chicken to a cutting board. Shred it with two forks, then return it to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Make the creamy sauce

Stir in the condensed soup and cream cheese. Cover and cook on low until the cream cheese is melted, about 30 minutes. Serve over rice or noodles, and add optional toppings as desired.

Recipe Variations

• Add toppings: Picking out toppings has always been my favorite part! Shredded cheese, bacon and chopped scallions are classic additions. You could also add fresh herbs like parsley or dill, or garnish with sliced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
• Use a whole chicken: Try making this recipe with a whole chicken instead of chicken breasts. Cook the chicken as directed, adjusting the cooking time as needed to reach 165°F (the safe internal temperature of cooked chicken). Then, you can serve the chicken in pieces or shred it like the recipe calls for.
• Try a different base: Instead of noodles or rice, serve slow-cooker ranch chicken over baked potatoes or a big piece of Texas toast garlic bread. You can even pile the creamy chicken onto a bun with lettuce and melted cheese to turn it into a sandwich.
• Change the soup: If you’re a fan of mushrooms, try using cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken soup.

How to Store Slow-Cooker Ranch Chicken

Store leftover ranch chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Store the noodles or rice separately. You can also freeze ranch chicken for up to three months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before you plan to serve it.

Slow-Cooker Ranch Chicken Tips

Taste Recipes

Can you put frozen chicken in the slow cooker?

You never want to put frozen chicken in the slow cooker! Frozen meat can stay at unsafe temperatures in the slow cooker’s low-heat environment, potentially encouraging bacteria growth. Instead, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight, or try one of these ways to defrost chicken. Check out more slow-cooker safety tips to ensure your meals are delicious and safe.

Can you cook slow-cooker ranch chicken on high for less time?

You can cook the chicken on high if you need to get this slow-cooker meal on the table more quickly. Cook the chicken, broth and dressing mix on high for three hours, then proceed with the recipe as directed.

Can you make ranch chicken on the stove?

You can make ranch chicken on the stovetop, although the dish will be slightly different. The chicken may be less tender, but it will still be tasty. Simply simmer the chicken with the broth and ranch dressing mix in a medium saucepan, covered, until the chicken is cooked through. Shred it, and return it to the pan. Add the condensed soup and cream cheese, and cook on low, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese is melted.

What can you serve with slow-cooker ranch chicken?

A creamy dish like this calls for a fresh side dish, like steamed lemon broccoli or a side salad. It’s also delicious with garlic bread to sop up the creamy sauce.