Are you looking for an easy and mouthwatering dinner that effortlessly caters to your busy lifestyle? Look no further! Our Crockpot Mississippi Chicken is the perfect one-pot meal that will fill your home with tantalizing aromas while you go about your day. Known for its simplicity and spectacular flavor, this dish features tender chicken cooked with zesty ranch seasoning, tangy pepperoncinis, and rich butter. In this post, I’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of creating this delicious meal that your family will love!
Ingredients List
To prepare your Crockpot Mississippi Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for added flavor)
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix (or homemade ranch seasoning)
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix (or substitute with beef broth for more flavor)
- 1 cup pepperoncini peppers (whole or sliced)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for richness)
- For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for color and freshness)
Timing
This Crockpot Mississippi Chicken recipe is just as simple as it is delicious! Here’s how the timing breaks down:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high
- Total Time: Approximately 6-6.5 hours, making it the perfect set-and-forget dinner choice!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. You don’t need to worry about seasoning it, as the ranch and gravy mixes will add all the flavors you’ll need!
Step 2: Add the Seasonings
Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix evenly over the chicken, followed by the au jus gravy mix. The combination of these two seasoning packets creates a robust flavor profile that will enhance the chicken’s natural taste.
Step 3: Add the Peppers
Place the pepperoncini peppers on top of the chicken and seasoning. These add a tangy kick that beautifully complements the dish’s richness! You can adjust the quantity based on your heat preference; if you like it spicier, add more!
Step 4: Add the Butter
Finally, cut the unsalted butter into a few pieces and place them on top of the peppers and chicken. As the butter melts throughout the cooking process, it will help keep the chicken moist and add a creamy richness to the sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it on low for 6 hours, or on high for 3 hours. The low and slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender and juicy chicken every time.
Step 6: Shred and Serve
Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. The chicken should fall apart easily! Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it with the remaining juices. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on a yield of 4 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 36g
- Fat: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to adapt the recipe for additional health benefits, consider these alternatives:
- Substitute low-sodium ranch dressing mix and beef broth to keep the sodium levels in check without sacrificing flavor.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of butter to add creaminess and protein while cutting down on fat.
- Replace chicken breasts with leaner cuts or cook with added vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This Crockpot Mississippi Chicken can be served in a variety of delightful ways:
- With Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice or cauliflower rice for a hearty meal.
- In Tacos: Use the shredded chicken to fill corn tortillas topped with avocado and salsa for delicious tacos.
- As a Sandwich: Serve the chicken between slices of bread or in a bun for a tasty, messy sandwich.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ensure your slow cooker is set to the correct temperature; cooking on high may result in dry chicken if not monitored.
- Don’t skip the shredding step after cooking; this lets your chicken soak up all the flavorful juices!
- Be cautious with the salt; if you’re using seasoning packets, they can already contain a fair amount, so taste as you go.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove until heated through. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the shredded chicken mixture in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Conclusion
This Crockpot Mississippi Chicken recipe is the epitome of comfort food, combining rich flavors and tender texture with the convenience of a slow cooker. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, it’s sure to become a staple in your household. I encourage you to try this delightful recipe and share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and kitchen tips!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken to ensure even cooking, but if you use frozen, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking!
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes! Chicken thighs offer more flavor and tend to stay juicier through longer cooking times, making them a great alternative.
What side dishes go well with this chicken?
This chicken pairs well with various side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a light salad for a refreshing contrast!