Description
How to make Effortless Creamy Ranch Chicken Crock Pot Recipe with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and savory ranch seasoning that’s perfect for a busy weeknight.
Ingredients
Scale
- Base/Main Components:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (1-ounce) packet dry Ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Flavor Builders:
- 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Seasonings/Spices:
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Finishing/Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prep Sauce Base: Combine softened cream cheese, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning in the crock pot. Add diced onion and minced garlic. This forms the creamy foundation for your Effortless Creamy Ranch Chicken Crock Pot Recipe. Stir well for a smooth mixture.
- Add Chicken: Place chicken breasts into the crock pot, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika directly over the chicken. Ensure each piece is coated for maximum flavor absorption.
- Stir & Cover: Gently stir the chicken to ensure it’s well-covered by the creamy ranch mixture. Cover the crock pot with its lid. This prepares it for slow cooking, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Ensure the lid is secure.
- Slow Cook: Cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded. The chicken should pull apart effortlessly with two forks. This is the magic of the Effortless Creamy Ranch Chicken Crock Pot Recipe.
- Shred & Thicken: Remove chicken and shred it. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with heavy cream, then stir into the sauce in the crock pot. Return shredded chicken, add dill, and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish & Serve: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and gooey. Garnish this delicious Effortless Creamy Ranch Chicken Crock Pot Recipe with fresh parsley. Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete, comforting meal.
Notes
Always soften cream cheese and whisk cornstarch with cold heavy cream to prevent a lumpy, thin sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days; add broth when reheating.
For a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though it won’t be as rich or thick.
Serve hot over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes to soak up the rich, creamy ranch sauce.
Lightly toast dry ranch seasoning before mixing for a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten