Are you ready to transform your dinner routine with a dish that's as comforting as it is delicious? Meet the Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken and Vegetables—a recipe that promises to be a family favorite! With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set this meal in motion and let your slow cooker work its magic for the next six hours. Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with the rich flavors of ranch seasoning, paired with vibrant mixed vegetables, all bathed in a creamy sauce. This is not just dinner; it's an experience that will have everyone asking for seconds! Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover how to create a mouthwatering meal that will leave your loved ones raving.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Sprinkle the entire packet of ranch seasoning evenly over the chicken breasts, coating them thoroughly.
- Pour the cream of chicken soup over the chicken, spreading it to cover each piece completely.
- Add the mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn) around and on top of the chicken, distributing them evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set to low heat setting.
- Cook for 6 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and the vegetables to become soft and flavorful.
- After cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken breasts and check that they have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Gently shred the chicken using two forks or slice into chunks, then return to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the vegetables and sauce.
- Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or green onions.
Tips
- Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. If you're short on time, you can also use frozen chicken; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to swap out the mixed vegetables for your favorites! Broccoli, bell peppers, or green beans can all work beautifully in this dish.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra kick, consider adding minced garlic or chopped onions to the slow cooker. You can also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Use Leftovers Creatively: This dish is perfect for leftovers! Shred the chicken and use it in tacos, salads, or sandwiches the next day for a quick and tasty meal.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to garnish your dish with fresh chopped parsley or sliced green onions just before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness that elevates the dish!
- Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delightful.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 446kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 56g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 138mg
