3 Packet Crockpot Chicken

Name: 3 Packet Crockpot Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-485877H57M26S
Total time: 5 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 (1-ounce) packet ranch seasoning mix; 1 (0.6-ounce) packet Italian dressing mix; 1 (0.9-ounce) packet chicken gravy mix; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

3 Packet Crockpot Chicken is a flavorful, tender, and incredibly easy slow cooker meal that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum taste. By combining three seasoning packets with chicken and broth, you get a savory dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a comforting and satisfying

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Minimal Ingredients: Just a few pantry staples come together to create a delicious meal.
Effortless Preparation: Simply mix, pour, and let the slow cooker do the work.
Versatile Serving Options: Pairs well with various sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, making it a go-to for family dinners.
Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers store well and can be used in sandwiches, wraps, or salads.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 (1-ounce) packet ranch seasoning mix
1 (0.6-ounce) packet Italian dressing mix
1 (0.9-ounce) packet chicken gravy mix
1 cup low-sodium chicken

Directions

Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
Place Chicken: Lay the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Mix Seasonings: In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch seasoning, Italian dressing mix, chicken gravy mix, and chicken broth until well combined.
Combine: Pour the seasoning mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 5 hours or on HIGH for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Shred and Serve: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the sauce. Serve hot over your choice of mashed potatoes, rice, or Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Total Time: Approximately 5 hours 5

Variations

Thicker Gravy: For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like sliced mushrooms, carrots, or peas during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix for a spicier version.
Cheesy Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a creamy, cheesy variation.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warm.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and will result in a juicier, more flavorful dish.

Is it necessary to use low-sodium chicken broth?

Using low-sodium chicken broth helps control the overall saltiness of the dish, especially since the seasoning packets contain salt.

Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop or in the oven?

This recipe is designed for the slow cooker, but you can adapt it for the stovetop by simmering the chicken and sauce over low heat until the chicken is cooked through. For the oven, bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour or until the chicken is tender.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Ensure that the seasoning packets used are labeled gluten-free, and use a gluten-free chicken broth.

Can I add potatoes directly to the slow cooker?

Yes, you can add diced potatoes to the slow cooker along with the chicken. Ensure they are cut into small, uniform pieces to cook evenly.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad complement this dish well.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, place the insert into the slow cooker base and cook as directed.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too salty?

Opt for low-sodium versions of the seasoning packets and broth, and avoid adding extra salt until after tasting the finished dish.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients, but ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume without overfilling.

Is it safe to cook frozen chicken in the slow cooker?

It’s recommended to thaw chicken before cooking in the slow cooker to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature evenly.

Conclusion

3 Packet Crockpot Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal without the fuss. With minimal ingredients and preparation, this recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken in a savory sauce that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, it’s a versatile and satisfying meal that you’ll return to time and again.