Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes

Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes is a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal that’s incredibly easy to prepare. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked potatoes, and a creamy ranch-seasoned sauce, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a hearty, no-fuss dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Requires just a handful of ingredients.
• Minimal prep—let your crockpot do all the work!
• Creamy and rich with the savory flavor of ranch seasoning.
• Perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping.
• Customizable with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crockpot

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Baby potatoes (halved if large)
• Ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
• Cream cheese (softened)
• Chicken broth
• Butter (optional, for extra richness)

Optional Add-Ins

• Carrots or green beans for a veggie-packed version
• Bacon bits for added flavor
• Shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Wash and halve the potatoes if needed. Set aside.
2. Assemble in the Crockpot:
   Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the crockpot. Scatter the potatoes over the top.
3. Make the Ranch Sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth until smooth. Pour the mixture over the chicken and potatoes.
4. Cook:
   Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through, and the potatoes are soft.
5. Finish and Serve:
   Stir everything gently to coat in the sauce. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley or shredded cheddar cheese before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6–8 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Include diced carrots, celery, or green beans for a balanced meal.
• Spicy Ranch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the ranch mixture.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a creamy, cheesy sauce.
• Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra aroma.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, bone-in chicken works well but may require slightly longer cooking times.

2. Do I need to sear the chicken before adding it to the crockpot?

It’s optional—searing adds flavor but isn’t necessary for this recipe.

3. Can I use a different cut of potato?

Yes, Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes work great in this dish.

4. Can I make my own ranch seasoning?

Absolutely! Combine garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, parsley, salt, and pepper to make a homemade ranch blend.

5. What can I substitute for cream cheese?

Use sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a tangier sauce.

6. How do I prevent the potatoes from getting mushy?

Use waxy potatoes like baby potatoes or red potatoes, and avoid overcooking.

7. Can I add other vegetables to the crockpot?

Yes, sturdy vegetables like carrots or green beans can be added during the last 1–2 hours of cooking.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free ranch seasoning mix.

9. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before, refrigerate, and start cooking in the morning.

10. How do I thicken the sauce?

For a thicker sauce, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its creamy ranch sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked potatoes, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal, this recipe is a no-fail crowd-pleaser!

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