Prepare to be amazed by the most incredibly tender chicken recipe that will have your family begging for seconds! This Slow Cooker Melt in Your Mouth Chicken is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal that transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a succulent, flavor-packed dinner that practically falls apart with the gentlest touch of a fork. Whether you're a busy parent, a cooking novice, or simply craving a hassle-free meal that tastes like it came from a gourmet restaurant, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures a more flavorful result.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides, ensuring an even coating for balanced flavor.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer to promote even cooking.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, cream of chicken soup, and ranch dressing mix. Whisk the ingredients thoroughly until they are well blended and smooth.
- Pour the butter and soup mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, making sure each piece is well-coated.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to cook on low heat for 6 hours. This slow cooking process will help the chicken become incredibly tender and infused with rich flavors.
- After 6 hours, check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum moisture.
- Optional: If desired, spoon some of the remaining sauce from the slow cooker over the chicken before serving to enhance the flavor and moisture.
- Serve hot with your choice of sides such as rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help the spices stick and create a more flavorful crust.
- Use fresh chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor - frozen chicken can make the dish watery.
- Don't lift the slow cooker lid during cooking, as this releases heat and extends the cooking time.
- For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce mixture.
- If the sauce seems too thin after cooking, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry or by reducing it in a pan.
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum moisture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and make excellent next-day lunches.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 145mg
