Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken with Garlic and Herbs
A rich, comforting, and ultra-easy slow cooker meal featuring tender chicken simmered in a creamy ranch-infused sauce with garlic and aromatic herbs. This dish is perfect for busy days — just set it and forget it! Serve it over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a satisfying family dinner.
Description
Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken combines juicy chicken with a smooth, flavorful sauce made from ranch seasoning, garlic, cream, and herbs. The slow cooking process makes the chicken incredibly tender while blending all the flavors beautifully. It’s a simple one-pot comfort meal with minimal prep and maximum taste.
Flavor Profile: Creamy, garlicky, herby, savory, and mildly tangy.
Time Required
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 4–6 hours (Low) or 2–3 hours (High)
Total Time: About 4–6 hours
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 28 g)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
½ cup chicken broth
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup cream cheese (softened)
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Season lightly with black pepper.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together:
Ranch seasoning
Heavy cream
Chicken broth
Garlic
Dried herbs
Pour the mixture over the chicken.
Step 3: Add Creaminess
Top with butter and dollops of cream cheese.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Low: Cook 4–6 hours
High: Cook 2–3 hours
Chicken should be tender and fully cooked.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Stir the sauce well until smooth. You may shred the chicken or serve whole.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
Over steamed rice
With mashed potatoes
Tossed with pasta
With roasted vegetables
Inside sandwiches or wraps
Tips for Best Results
Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Add mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
For thicker sauce, cook uncovered for 15 minutes at the end.
For a lighter version, use milk instead of cream.
Nutrition (Approx. Per Serving)
Calories: 420–480 kcal
Protein: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 5 g
Fat: 28 g
(Varies by ingredients used.)
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thawing first is recommended for even cooking and better texture.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.
Q: What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?
Use a mix of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — use coconut cream and dairy-free butter/cream cheese alternatives.