Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Shredded Chicken

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Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Shredded Chicken

Description

This dish combines juicy chicken breasts with the zesty, herb-forward flavors of ranch seasoning and the richness of cream cheese. As it cooks low and slow, the chicken becomes tender enough to shred with a fork, creating a thick, savory sauce that coats every piece.

  • Prep time: 5 minutes

  • Cook time: 4 hours (High) or 6–8 hours (Low)

  • Servings: 6

  • Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

  • Chicken: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs).

  • Cream Cheese: 1 block (8 oz) full-fat cream cheese.

  • Ranch Seasoning: 1 packet (1 oz) Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix.

  • Butter: 1/4 cup unsalted butter, sliced into pats.

  • Liquid: 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for a thinner consistency).

  • Garnish: Chopped green onions or fresh parsley.

Instructions

  1. Layer the Base: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker in a single layer.

  2. Season: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning packet evenly over the chicken.

  3. Add Fats: Place the block of cream cheese and the butter slices on top of the seasoned chicken.

  4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 4 hours.

  5. Shred: Once finished, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pot.

  6. Incorporate: Stir the shredded chicken into the melted cheese and butter until a creamy sauce forms.

  7. Serve: Serve warm over rice, pasta, or in a bun.

Tips & Variations

  • The “Easy Shred”: If you want to save time, pull the cooked chicken out and put it in a bowl. Use a handheld mixer on low speed to shred it in seconds, then toss it back into the sauce.

  • Spice it up: Add a can of diced green chilis or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a “Buffalo Ranch” kick.

  • Veggie Boost: Stir in some fresh spinach or steamed broccoli at the very end until wilted.

  • Cheese Choice: For extra depth, stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese after shredding.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Note: Estimates based on standard ingredients.

Metric Amount
Calories 385 kcal
Protein 34g
Fat 24g
Carbohydrates 4g
Sodium 680mg

Benefits of This Dish

  • High Protein: Excellent for muscle recovery and satiety.

  • Low Carb/Keto Friendly: Naturally low in sugar and carbs, making it a staple for ketogenic diets.

  • Meal Prep King: This freezes beautifully. Make a double batch and freeze portions for quick lunches later in the month.

Q&A

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?

A: It is generally recommended to thaw chicken first for food safety reasons to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature quickly enough in the slow cooker.

Q: Is it too salty?

A: Some ranch packets are sodium-heavy. If you are sensitive to salt, use a “Low Sodium” ranch mix or make a homemade blend using dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Q: What if the sauce is too thick?

A: Simply splash in a little more chicken broth or a tablespoon of milk at the end until you reach your desired consistency.

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