Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken (Printable Version)
Tender ranch-seasoned shredded chicken, slow-cooked and loaded into tacos for an effortless family dinner.
# What You Need:
→ Meats
01 - 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
→ Seasonings and Sauces
02 - 1 oz ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
03 - 1 cup chicken broth
04 - 1 tsp garlic powder
05 - 1 tsp onion powder
06 - ½ tsp smoked paprika
07 - ½ tsp black pepper
→ Additional Flavor
08 - 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel), undrained
→ For Serving
09 - 8 small taco shells or tortillas (corn or flour)
10 - 1 cup shredded lettuce
11 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
12 - ½ cup sour cream
13 - ½ cup diced tomatoes (optional)
14 - Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
# How To Make It:
01 - Place the chicken breasts in an even layer across the bottom of the slow cooker.
02 - Evenly sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper over the chicken breasts.
03 - Pour the chicken broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, including the juices, over the seasoned chicken.
04 - Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
05 - Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and shred using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stir to combine with the cooking juices, and let it rest for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
06 - Warm the taco shells or tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or according to package directions.
07 - Divide the ranch shredded chicken evenly among the warmed taco shells or tortillas. Top with shredded lettuce, cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro as desired. Serve immediately.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
- The ranch seasoning does all the heavy lifting, so you get bold flavor with almost zero effort.
- Shredding the chicken right in those juices is the kind of simple trick that makes everything taste restaurant quality.
02 -
- Do not skip the 10 minute soak after shredding because that is when the chicken transforms from good to unforgettable.
- Check your ranch seasoning label if cooking for someone gluten free, as some brands hide wheat in unexpected places.
03 -
- Cook on low rather than high if you have the time, because the longer gentle heat gives you chicken that practically shreds itself.
- Save any leftover broth from the slow cooker and drizzle it over the assembled tacos for extra moisture and punch.