Name: Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 245 min
Ingredients: 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 oz taco seasoning; 1 oz ranch dressing mix; ½ cup low sodium chicken broth

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There’s something truly special about the way the aroma of Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos fills the house, wrapping everyone in a warm embrace of savory goodness. I remember the first time I made these for a gathering of friends; the excitement was palpable. As the flavors melded together in the slow cooker, I couldn’t help but feel that this dish was going to become a staple in my home. The blend of chicken, ranch dressing, and taco seasoning creates a tantalizing experience that leaves everyone craving more. This recipe is not just about food; it’s about creating lasting memories with loved ones around the dinner table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
4 hr 5 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
240 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
6-qt Slow Cooker

Why We Love This Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos

Flavorful Comfort

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the delightful taste of Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos. The chicken becomes tender and infused with flavor, making every bite a joy. You can truly savor the richness brought by the ranch dressing and taco seasoning, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Easy to Prepare

This recipe is a breeze! Simply throw all the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. You can go about your day without worrying about dinner, and when you come back, a delicious meal awaits you.

Customizable

One of the best aspects of this dish is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Want to add more veggies? Toss in some bell peppers or corn. Prefer a different protein? Feel free to substitute with shredded beef or turkey.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re a busy person or just want to make life easier for yourself during the week, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and store it in the fridge. It’s great for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Family-Friendly

This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike. The combination of chicken and the familiar flavors of ranch and tacos means everyone will be coming back for seconds. It’s a fantastic way to introduce new flavors without straying too far from what they already love.

Perfect for Gatherings

Whether you’re hosting a party, a family gathering, or just having friends over for the game, Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos is a surefire way to please the crowd. Set up a taco bar with all the fixings and let your guests customize their own. It’s interactive, fun, and delicious!

What Goes Into Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos

The ingredients of Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos are carefully selected to bring out the best flavors. Each element works harmoniously, resulting in a dish that is not only tasty but also satisfying. The star of the show is the tender chicken, while the ranch and taco seasoning provide a delightful zing. Add in some low-sodium chicken broth to keep things juicy, and you have a recipe that’s both flavorful and easy on the palate.

2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: The foundation of this dish, tender and juicy, it soaks up the delicious flavors while cooking.
1 (1-oz) package taco seasoning: This adds the quintessential taco flavor without any fuss, a true time-saver.
1 (1-oz) package ranch dressing mix: For that creamy, tangy goodness that elevates the flavor profile.
½ cup low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and infuses even more flavor into the dish.

Preparation Steps for Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos

Cooking Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos is as simple as it gets! You’ll be amazed at how effortless it is to create a delicious meal that tastes like you’ve been slaving away in the kitchen for hours. Just follow these steps, and in no time, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready to serve.

Begin by placing the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Ensure they are evenly spaced to allow for optimal cooking.
Next, sprinkle the entire packet of taco seasoning over the top of the chicken. This will give the chicken a fantastic flavor base, so don’t skimp on this step!
Then, take the ranch dressing mix and sprinkle it over the chicken. It may seem like a lot, but trust me, this is where the magic happens!
Pour the low sodium chicken broth over the ingredients. This will help keep everything juicy and tender. Make sure the broth is evenly distributed across the chicken.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours. The longer you let it cook, the more tender the chicken will become.
Once the time is up, carefully remove the lid—watch out for steam! Use two forks to shred the chicken in the slow cooker. It should fall apart easily, swimming in all those delicious seasonings.
Give everything a good mix to incorporate all the flavors. Taste it! If you want more seasoning, now’s the time to adjust.
Serve the shredded chicken in warm tortillas along with your favorite toppings like cheese, lettuce, and salsa.
Enjoy your Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos with friends and family. This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Things Worth Knowing

Patience is key: The longer you cook the chicken, the more tender it will become.
Shred effectively: Using two forks works best for shredding the chicken after cooking.
Flavor depth: Feel free to add extra spices or chopped vegetables to enhance flavor and texture.
Storage tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations about Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos

If you’re ready to explore some exciting twists on Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos, you’re in for a treat! Here are some delicious variations to consider.

Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the slow cooker for a spicy kick.
Vegetable medley: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or corn for added sweetness and crunch.
Cheesy goodness: Top the tacos with shredded cheese towards the end of cooking for a melty finish.
Serve over rice: Instead of tacos, serve the shredded chicken over rice for a hearty bowl meal.
Freezing for later: You can freeze the shredded chicken for an easy meal prep option.
Make it a salad: Use the chicken as a topping for a fresh salad for a lighter meal option.

Serving Options for Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos

Serving Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos is a delightful experience, and there are countless ways to enjoy this delicious dish! Here are some serving suggestions:

Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar with various toppings such as cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and guacamole. Let your guests build their own tacos!
Side Dishes: Pair with sides like refried beans, Mexican rice, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Lunch Option: These tacos make a fantastic lunch. Pack the chicken in a wrap with some fresh veggies for a quick meal on the go.
Game Day: Perfect for game day snacks, serve them with tortilla chips and salsa for dipping.
Seasonal Pairing: In summer, serve with a refreshing fruit salad or corn on the cob to balance the flavors.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for easy access the next day.

FAQ

Yes, you can definitely use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos. Just keep in mind that you will need to cook it for a longer period. The frozen chicken releases more liquid as it cooks, so you might want to leave out the chicken broth initially and add it later if needed.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re using a slow cooker, typically cooking it on LOW for 4 to 6 hours will yield perfectly tender results. The chicken should easily shred with a fork when it’s fully cooked.

For Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos, you can go wild with toppings! Some favorites include shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, lettuce, and guacamole. You could also add sour cream, jalapeños, or any of your favorite salsa. The beauty of tacos is that customization is encouraged, so feel free to get creative!

To store leftovers of Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos, simply place any remaining chicken in an airtight container. It can last up to three days in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Conclusion

In summary, Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos are a flavor-packed, easy-to-prepare dish that brings joy to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just getting dinner on the table, this recipe is sure to impress. So go ahead and give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!