Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines simple ingredients with the magic of slow cooking. This recipe, originating from Mississippi, has become a favored choice for busy families and meal preppers alike. It’s known for its effortlessly tender chicken, rich flavors, and the ability to transform a few pantry staples into a hearty meal. Whether served over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Why We Love This Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken Recipe
You will love this Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken recipe for its simplicity and incredible taste. The slow cooking method allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the ranch dressing and au jus gravy mixes, making each bite juicy and packed with flavor. It’s a perfect example of a set-it-and-forget-it meal; just toss everything into your Crock Pot, and it does the work for you. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead. With minimal prep and cleanup, you can enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken
To prepare this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients come together effortlessly, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
How to Make Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken
Making Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken is incredibly straightforward and takes hardly any time at all. Here’s how you can whip it up:
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the four boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into your Crock Pot. Make sure they are arranged evenly for even cooking.
- Add the Seasonings: Open the packet of ranch dressing mix and sprinkle it evenly over the chicken. This adds a delicious, zesty flavor that really highlights the dish.
- Incorporate the Gravy Mix: Next, open the au jus gravy mix and sprinkle it over the chicken as well. This mix will enrich the flavors and ensure a delightful sauce.
- Top with Butter: Place half a cup of unsalted butter on top of the chicken and seasoning mix. The butter melts during cooking, contributing to the dish’s richness and creaminess.
- Add Peppers: Pour in the half cup of pepperoncini peppers. These peppers will add a tangy taste and just the right amount of heat to your meal.
- Cook: Cover your Crock Pot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is up, carefully shred the chicken using two forks while it’s still in the Crock Pot. This allows the chicken to soak up more of the delicious sauce.
- Mix and Serve: Be sure to mix the shredded chicken into the sauce thoroughly. Your Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken is now ready to serve!
How to Serve Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken
When it comes to serving up your Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken, the options are plentiful. You can serve it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, which will soak up all the savory sauce. Alternatively, a side of rice complements the dish wonderfully, providing a nice balance to the flavors.
If you’re in the mood for something pasta-based, you can serve this shredded chicken on a plate of egg noodles or any pasta of your choice, allowing the rich flavors to cling to every bite. Don’t forget to garnish with extra pepperoncini peppers or a sprinkle of parsley if you like a bit of color on your plate. Pair it with some steamed vegetables or a simple side salad for a well-rounded meal.
Expert Tips: Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken
- Use Quality Chicken: For the best results, opt for organic, free-range chicken breasts, if possible. This tends to yield a more flavorful dish.
- Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of pepperoncini peppers or remove the seeds from them before adding.
- Experiment with Sides: While this dish is fantastic on its own, don’t hesitate to get creative with your side dishes. Consider serving with corn, green beans, or a fresh garden salad for an extra dose of nutrition.
- Timing is Key: Keep an eye on the cooking time, especially if you’re new to using a Crock Pot. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, so aim for the lower end of the cooking time if possible.
- Make Ahead: Prepare your ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. This way, you can simply pour everything into the Crock Pot in the morning for a hassle-free dinner.
How to Store Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken
Storing your Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken is simple and convenient. Allow any leftovers to cool down to room temperature before transferring them into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to retain moisture, and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Just ensure you use freezer-safe containers or bags, and label them with the date. You can freeze the chicken for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as described above.
Variation of Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken
While the classic version of Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken is undeniably delicious, you can always put your own twist on it. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some sliced onions, bell peppers, or even carrots to the Crock Pot for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheesy Version: For a creamy twist, mix in a cup of cream cheese or shredded cheese to the chicken in the last half hour of cooking.
- Spicy Kick: If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the spice level.
- Swap the Proteins: While chicken is the classic choice, feel free to substitute with turkey or even lean beef if that’s your preference.
- Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken Tacos: Use the shredded chicken as a filling for tacos. Just serve with tortillas and your favorite toppings for a fun and easy meal.
FAQ
What is Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken?
Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken is a slow-cooked dish made with chicken breasts, ranch dressing mix, au jus gravy mix, butter, and pepperoncini peppers, resulting in tender, flavorful chicken perfect for serving over rice or pasta.
How long do I cook Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken?
You can cook Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, depending on your schedule and how tender you want the chicken.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in your Crock Pot. Just make sure to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure that they cook thoroughly.
What can I serve with Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken?
This dish goes well with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. You can also pair it with a side salad or vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Just dump them in the Crock Pot in the morning and let it cook throughout the day for a convenient meal.
Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Use organic, free-range chicken for best results.
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter Melts during cooking for added richness.
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers Adjust for milder taste by reducing or removing seeds.
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into your Crock Pot, arranged evenly.
- Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix evenly over the chicken.
- Sprinkle the au jus gravy mix over the chicken.
- Place the unsalted butter on top of the chicken and seasoning mix.
- Pour in the pepperoncini peppers.
Cooking
- Cover the Crock Pot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
Finishing Touches
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks while it's still in the Crock Pot.
- Mix the shredded chicken into the sauce thoroughly before serving.
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