Ultimate Creamy Crockpot Ranch Chicken Potatoes
Ultimate Creamy Crockpot Ranch Chicken Potatoes
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 450 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a proper delicious dinner, but zero effort? This Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes is the answer. It’s proper comfort food, simple as pie and packed with flavour.
Honestly, it's so easy, even I can't mess it up.
Brief Overview
This dish is like a big, warm hug, inspired by classic American flavors. It's an easy Crockpot Chicken Dinner Ideas that takes minutes to prep and cooks while you chill.
This Easy Chicken Crockpot Recipe serves six, making it ideal for a family feast.
Main Benefits
It’s also surprisingly healthy, loaded with protein and potassium. Plus, you get the satisfaction of a home cooked meal with almost none of the work! This recipe is especially good for a cozy night in with the family.
It's so simple; it is hard to get wrong!.
Let's get into the nitty gritty of what makes this Comfort Food Crockpot Recipes a winner, shall we?
Ingredients: The Secret Sauce
First, you will need boneless, skinless chicken thighs, about 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) of them. Why thighs? Honestly, they're just so much more tender in the slow cooker.
Yukon Gold potatoes are next, around 1.5 lbs (680g), scrubbed and cubed. A medium yellow onion, chopped adds some flavour.
Don't forget the star: one packet of dry ranch seasoning mix. I swear by Hidden Valley! Add half a teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
Now, for the creamy magic, grab a can of condensed cream of chicken soup (10.75 oz / 305g) and half a cup of low-sodium chicken broth.
And now, for the secrets: 4 oz (113g) of cream cheese, softened, two tablespoons of butter, and a quarter cup of milk or heavy cream.
Trust me, these make all the difference.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and some crispy crumbled bacon if you are feeling fancy!
This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Recipes is so easy; it's almost criminal. You'll be wondering why you haven't made it sooner!
Ingredients & Equipment
Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to whip up this seriously amazing Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes . It's easier than you think! This Easy Chicken Crockpot Recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights, honestly.
Main Ingredients for Your Crockpot Chicken Dinner Ideas
- Chicken: You'll need 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. I prefer thighs because they stay super tender in the slow cooker. But breasts work too, you know?
- Potatoes: Grab 1.5 lbs (680g) of Yukon Gold potatoes. Scrub 'em and cube 'em into 1 inch (2.5 cm) pieces. These Potatoes Crockpot style are the best, they get so creamy!
- Onion: One medium yellow onion, chopped. That's about 1 cup (150g) . Don't stress too much about the chopping, it all cooks down.
- Ranch Seasoning: One (1 oz / 28g) packet of dry ranch seasoning. Hidden Valley is the classic, for real.
- Black Pepper: Just a touch, about 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: One (10.75 oz / 305g) can of condensed cream of chicken soup. It's the secret to that creamy sauce.
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup (120ml) of low sodium chicken broth. Gotta keep that sodium in check!
- Secret Ingredient #1: 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened and cubed. This is what makes it extra special, my friend. Seriously.
- Secret Ingredient #2: 2 tablespoons of butter, cut into small pieces. It adds richness.
- Secret Ingredient #3: 1/4 cup (60ml) of milk or heavy cream. This will make the Creamy Crockpot Chicken Recipes come to life.
Quality matters. Fresh chicken thighs should be pink and firm. Potatoes should be firm and without sprouts.
Seasoning Notes
This recipe hinges on that ranch flavor! It's Comfort Food Crockpot Recipes at their finest.
You can totally sub dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and chives if you're out of ranch. Just play around with the amounts.
Equipment Needed
Nothing fancy here, mates!
- A 6-quart (5.7-liter) Crockpot (slow cooker) . This is a must! If you want to cook Chicken And Potatoes In Crockpot .
- A cutting board and knife.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
That's it! No need for any special gadgets. You can even use a large pot if you don't have a slow cooker, just simmer it on the stove.
And don't forget to check on the Crockpot Chicken Thighs And Potatoes to make sure nothing is sticking. This Ranch Chicken Slow Cooker Recipe will become your go-to dinner.
Alright, let's dive into the world of effortless comfort food! We're talking about my Ultimate Creamy Crockpot Ranch Chicken & Potatoes and honestly, it's a total game changer.
This recipe? Seriously easy. Perfect for those days when you want a hearty Crockpot Chicken Dinner Ideas without spending hours in the kitchen.
Think of it as a hug in a bowl! I once prepped this before heading out for the day. Came home, and bam - a complete meal waiting for me.
Prep Steps: Let's Get Organized
First things first: mise en place , my friends. It's a fancy term but really just means "get your stuff together.
" Chop one medium yellow onion (about 1 cup), and cube 1.5 lbs of Yukon Gold potatoes. These are my go-to because they're naturally buttery and hold their shape like champs in the Potatoes Crockpot .
If you want to prep it earlier and just cook when you get home, prepare the meal the day or night before and then refrigerate it until you cook it! Cut 2.
5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs (my fave for tenderness) into smaller, manageable pieces. Safety first! Always wash your hands after handling raw chicken.
Step-by-Step: Crockpot Magic
- Toss the potatoes into your 6-quart Crockpot.
- Layer the chopped onion and chicken on top.
- Sprinkle with one packet of dry ranch seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Crockpot Chicken Thighs And Potatoes never tasted so simple, right?
- Pour in 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup and 1/2 cup of low-sodium chicken broth.
- Now, for the secret weapons: Dot with 4 oz of softened cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of butter! Seriously, Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes with Cream Cheese is a revelation.
- Cover and cook on low for 6- 8 hours or high for 3- 4 hours . Chicken must hit 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Shred the chicken right in the crockpot using two forks.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of milk or heavy cream for ultimate creaminess. This is what brings it all together!
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Crockpot Game
Wanna really impress? Sear the chicken before adding it. It will add an extra layer of flavour you will love, or Use full fat cream cheese for the creamiest result! Avoid overcooking dry chicken is a real bummer.
To add a kick, you can also include a splash of hot sauce into the mixture. And if you're short on time, searing will save you some time.
Honestly, this Easy Chicken Crockpot Recipe is foolproof, even I cannot mess it up! You get the perfect bowl of Comfort Food Crockpot Recipes .
The secret to creamy Chicken And Potatoes In Crockpot is those sneaky ingredients. Enjoy this recipe, your family and friends will not regret it.
Recipe Notes: Your Secret Weapon for Crockpot Success
Okay, so you're about to tackle this amazing Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes recipe. Honestly, you're gonna love it. It is the perfect Comfort Food Crockpot Recipes .
I bet you want to make it perfect . Here are a few extra bits of knowledge to level up your Easy Chicken Crockpot Recipe .
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro
Forget fancy plating, yeah? This Crockpot Chicken Dinner Ideas is all about that rustic, homey vibe. I love serving it family style in a big bowl right in the middle of the table.
Scatter some fresh parsley on top for a pop of green makes it look a bit more posh, you know? It also goes great with some steamed green beans or a simple side salad.
And don't forget some crusty bread for mopping up all that creamy, ranch-y goodness!
Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Let the Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Potatoes cool down completely, then pop it in an airtight container in the fridge.
It'll happily sit there for 3-4 days. I actually think it tastes even better the next day, the flavours really meld together, yeah? Reheating is a breeze: microwave, stovetop, whatever floats your boat.
Freezing? Yeah, you could freeze this Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes , although the potatoes might get a bit soft once thawed. For best results, use it within 2-3 months.
Variations: Making It Your Own
Honestly, this recipe is super flexible. You can totally chuck in whatever you fancy.
Fancy a Spicy Ranch Chicken? Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for a kick. Watching the calories? Use low-fat cream cheese and skimmed milk to keep it on the lighter side.
Swapping things is good!
This Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes with Cream Cheese is a dish that you can easily adapt as well.
Nutrition Basics: Fueling Your Body
This delicious Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes recipe clocks in around 450 calories per serving. You're getting a good hit of protein (about 35g) from the chicken, which is awesome for building muscle.
The Potatoes Crockpot provide some carbs for energy. Of course, the nutritional information will vary depending on the brands you use and any swaps you make.
This amazing Ranch Chicken Slow Cooker Recipe is totally doable, and your family will thank you. Have fun with it, yeah? You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are generally more forgiving and remain juicier in the slow cooker, chicken breasts will work too. Just be mindful not to overcook them, as they can become dry.
I'd recommend reducing the cooking time by an hour or so, and always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer you want it to hit 165°F (74°C). No one wants a chicken dinner that's drier than a vicar's sense of humor!
My sauce isn't thick enough. How can I thicken it up for this Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes?
Not to worry, a runny sauce is a common crockpot conundrum! The easiest fix is to make a slurry whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Alternatively, you can remove some of the liquid (about 1/2 cup), simmer it in a saucepan on the stove until reduced, and then return it to the crockpot. Think of it as your gravy making audition for the Great British Baking Show… but with chicken!
How long can I store leftover Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes?
Leftovers, if you have any, can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the food has cooled down a bit before refrigerating to prevent condensation from forming. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk if needed to restore the creamy consistency.
It’s a brilliant make ahead meal or lunchbox option, much better than another soggy sandwich!
Can I add vegetables other than potatoes to this Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes?
Of course! This recipe is very adaptable to your favourite veggies. Carrots, celery, broccoli florets, or even frozen peas can be added to the crockpot along with the potatoes. Just consider the cooking time of each vegetable.
For example, broccoli and peas are best added during the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy. Think of it as building your own culinary adventure a bit like choosing your own Doctor Who companion!
Is this Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes recipe healthy?
While it’s certainly comforting, this dish can be adjusted to be a bit healthier. Consider using low-sodium chicken broth and ranch seasoning to reduce the salt content. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts will lower the fat content.
You could also swap out some of the potatoes with other vegetables like carrots or broccoli to increase the fiber and nutrient content. Remember, even a little change can make a big difference it's all about balance, like a proper cuppa!
I don't have cream of chicken soup. What can I substitute in this Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes recipe?
No problem at all! Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup will work in a pinch. Alternatively, you can create a creamy sauce from scratch. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, then gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups of milk or chicken broth until thickened.
Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. It is almost like turning water into wine! (Except its soup, not wine...)
