Crockpot Mississippi Chicken Flavorful and Simple Meal

Crockpot Mississippi Chicken is the ultimate dish for busy cooks. You can whip up a full-flavored meal with little effort. Just toss some chicken, spices, and butter in your crockpot, and let it do the work. This dish is tender, tasty, and perfect for a family dinner. Want to learn how to make it? Keep reading for step-by-step instructions and tips!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix

- 1 packet au jus gravy mix

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter

- 1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers

- 1 tablespoon minced garlic

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

To make Crockpot Mississippi Chicken, gather these ingredients first. You need four boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They provide a great base for this dish.

Next, grab one packet of ranch seasoning mix. This mix adds a creamy herb flavor. Then, get a packet of au jus gravy mix for a rich, savory taste.

You also need half a cup of unsalted butter. Butter brings great richness to the dish. Don’t forget half a cup of pepperoncini peppers. These peppers add a tangy kick that balances the flavors nicely.

A tablespoon of minced garlic adds depth and aroma. Finally, have salt and pepper handy for extra seasoning. If you want, chop some fresh parsley to garnish your plate. It adds color and freshness to the dish.

With these ingredients at hand, you're ready to create a comforting and flavorful meal. Enjoy the cooking process!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Crockpot

To start, lightly spray the inner pot with cooking spray. This step helps with easy cleanup later. It also keeps the chicken from sticking.

Layering the Chicken

Next, place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the pot. Season them with salt and pepper to add flavor. This simple step makes a big difference in taste.

Adding Seasonings and Ingredients

Now, let’s make it tasty! Combine the ranch seasoning and au jus mix in a small bowl. Stir until mixed well. Then, sprinkle this blend evenly over the chicken.

Add the pepperoncini peppers on top of the chicken. You can use whole peppers for a bold kick or sliced ones for a milder taste.

Now, slice the stick of butter into pieces. Place these on top of the peppers. This adds richness to the dish.

Finally, spread the minced garlic evenly over everything. This will give the dish a strong and lovely aroma as it cooks.

Cooking the Dish

Cover the crockpot with its lid. Set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s tender and easy to shred.

Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the pot. Mix it well with the sauce, so every bite is full of flavor. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Tips & Tricks

Adjusting Flavor

To boost the flavor of your Mississippi Chicken, try adding a few extra spices. You can mix in garlic powder or onion powder for a deeper taste. A pinch of cayenne pepper will add some heat. If you enjoy herbs, fresh thyme or oregano can also enhance the dish. Just remember, start small. You can always add more!

Ensuring Tender Chicken

To ensure your chicken turns out tender, it’s key to cook it low and slow. Set your crockpot to low for 6 to 7 hours. Avoid lifting the lid while it cooks. Each time you open it, heat escapes. Use fresh chicken breasts, as frozen ones might take longer and can become dry. When done, the chicken should shred easily with a fork.

Cleanup Tips

Cleaning the crockpot can be simple. First, spray the inner pot with cooking spray before you start. This helps food not stick. After cooking, soak the pot in warm, soapy water for a few minutes. This will loosen any bits stuck to the sides. A non-abrasive sponge works well for scrubbing. If needed, you can also line the pot with a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.

Variations

Alternative Ingredients

You can switch up the peppers in Mississippi Chicken. Use jalapeños for heat or sweet bell peppers for a milder taste. Try adding spices like cayenne for some kick or smoked paprika for depth. Mixing different ranch seasoning blends can create unique flavors. If you want a twist, add some diced tomatoes or olives for extra flair.

Serving Suggestions

Mississippi Chicken pairs well with many sides. Serve it over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a filling meal. Fresh veggies like steamed broccoli or green beans add a nice crunch. You can also try cornbread or a crisp salad to balance the dish's richness. Don't forget some warm bread to soak up that tasty sauce!

Cooking Method Alternatives

You can make Mississippi Chicken in an Instant Pot for faster cooking. Set it to high pressure for about 15 minutes. If you prefer stovetop cooking, sear the chicken first, then simmer it low and slow with the other ingredients. This method still gives you that tender chicken and rich flavor.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftovers safely, let the chicken cool completely. Place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days. Label the container with the date. This helps you track freshness.

Freezing Instructions

For freezing Mississippi Chicken, let it cool before packing. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This dish can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, you can use the microwave or stovetop. For the microwave, heat on medium power for a few minutes. Stir halfway for even warming. If using the stovetop, place it in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry. This keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.

FAQs

What is Crockpot Mississippi Chicken?

Crockpot Mississippi Chicken is a tasty, easy dish. It features tender chicken cooked with zesty seasoning. The main flavors come from ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix. You also add butter and pepperoncini peppers for a nice kick. The chicken becomes so soft that you can shred it easily. This meal is perfect for busy days. It cooks in a crockpot, so you can set it and forget it.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just keep a few things in mind. If the chicken is frozen, it will need extra cooking time. Set your crockpot on low for about 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. This longer time helps the chicken cook all the way through. Make sure to check if it shreds easily before serving.

What to serve with Mississippi Chicken?

Mississippi Chicken pairs well with many sides. Here are some popular options:

- Fluffy rice

- Creamy mashed potatoes

- Coleslaw

- Steamed vegetables

- Warm bread

You can choose any of these sides to complete your meal. They help soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite even better!

This blog post covered the simple steps to make Mississippi Chicken in a crockpot. You learned about the easy ingredients, step-by-step prep, and cooking times. I also shared tips for juicy chicken and fun variations to try. Remember, this dish is not only tasty but also easy to customize. Plan to enjoy it with your favorite sides. With these ideas, you can impress friends and family at your next meal. Happy cooking!