Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of tender, juicy chicken infused with tangy barbecue and zesty ranch flavors. This Barbecue Ranch Crockpot Chicken is not just a meal – it's a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary chicken into a show-stopping dish with minimal effort. Whether you're a busy parent, a cooking novice, or a seasoned chef looking for a foolproof recipe, this dish promises to be your new go-to comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasonings adhere better and ensures more flavorful meat.
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer without overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, ranch seasoning packet, and water until thoroughly combined and smooth.
- Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is well-coated and covered.
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and set to cook on LOW heat for 4 hours. Do not remove the lid during cooking to maintain consistent temperature and moisture.
- After 4 hours, check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Once done, remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes before shredding with two forks or cutting into desired portions.
- Optional: For a slightly crispy exterior, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes after slow cooking.
- Serve hot with additional barbecue sauce on the side, and pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Pat the chicken breasts dry before cooking to help seasonings stick and enhance flavor absorption.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For extra flavor, choose a high-quality barbecue sauce that complements the ranch seasoning.
- Don't lift the crockpot lid during cooking to maintain consistent temperature and moisture.
- If you prefer a slightly crispy exterior, consider the optional broiling step after slow cooking.
- For meal prep, this chicken can be easily shredded and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Experiment with different side dishes like coleslaw, corn, or roasted vegetables to complement the chicken.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 90mg
