Dump-and-Go Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This easy and delicious dump-and-go recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Simply place all your ingredients in the crockpot, set it, and forget it!
This Dump-and-Go Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is a family favorite. With minimal effort, you get a hearty meal that everyone will love!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup.
- Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork.
- Hearty potatoes that soak up all the delicious flavors.
A Perfect Meal for Busy Families
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome dinner can be quite the challenge. This Dump-and-Go Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes recipe is designed with busy families in mind. By requiring minimal preparation and cooking time, it allows you to focus on what truly matters—spending time with loved ones. Just toss everything into the crockpot, and let it do the work while you attend to your evening routine.
Moreover, this recipe is not just about convenience; it's also about nutrition. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, while potatoes provide essential vitamins and minerals. Together, they create a balanced meal that will keep everyone satisfied and energized for the evening ahead.
Flavorful Ingredients Make All the Difference
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the flavors that come from just a few key ingredients. The ranch dressing mix adds a creamy, savory note that elevates the dish, while garlic powder enhances the overall flavor profile. As the chicken and potatoes cook, they absorb the rich taste of the chicken broth, resulting in a comforting and satisfying dish that tastes like it's been simmering for hours.
Using fresh parsley as a garnish not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that brightens the entire meal. It's a small touch that can make a significant difference in presentation and taste.
Tips for Success
For best results, choose chicken breasts that are uniform in size to ensure even cooking. If you prefer thighs or drumsticks, feel free to substitute them in this recipe. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly. Additionally, you can customize the dish by adding other vegetables like carrots or green beans, making it a versatile option that can adapt to your family's preferences.
Don’t forget to check the seasoning! After cooking, taste the mixture and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Each brand of ranch dressing mix can vary in saltiness, so it’s always a good idea to give it a quick taste before serving.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, diced
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 packet of ranch dressing mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your delicious crockpot meal:
Prepare the Ingredients
Dice the potatoes and season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Layer in the Crockpot
Place the diced potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot. Lay the seasoned chicken breasts on top.
Add Broth and Dressing Mix
Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and sprinkle the ranch dressing mix evenly on top.
Cook
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the crockpot, stir everything together, and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your meal with family and friends!
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers (which is likely, given how filling this dish is!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is a breeze—simply microwave individual portions or heat them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to keep it moist.
For longer storage, this dish freezes well too. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months, making it a great option for meal prep. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above.
Serving Suggestions
While this dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, you can elevate your meal by serving it with a side salad or some crusty bread. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and potatoes.
For a more indulgent meal, consider pairing it with garlic bread or dinner rolls. The soft bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth, adding another layer of satisfaction to your dining experience.
Variations to Try
This recipe is a wonderful base that you can tweak to suit your taste buds. For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese towards the end of the cooking time.
You can also experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding fresh thyme or rosemary can provide an aromatic touch that complements the chicken beautifully. The options are endless, making this a fun recipe to play around with and make your own!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but a fresh salad or crusty bread would complement it well.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge before cooking.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Dump-and-Go Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
This easy and delicious dump-and-go recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Simply place all your ingredients in the crockpot, set it, and forget it!
Created by: Phoebe Turner
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, diced
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 packet of ranch dressing mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Dice the potatoes and season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Place the diced potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot. Lay the seasoned chicken breasts on top.
Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and sprinkle the ranch dressing mix evenly on top.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the crockpot, stir everything together, and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g