Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Mississippi Chicken Recipe
If you’re searching for a hands-off, no-fuss meal that bursts with rich and savory flavors, then Crockpot Mississippi Chicken is your answer. This dish is a spin on the classic Mississippi Pot Roast but with chicken, making it a lighter yet equally flavorful alternative.
Table of Contents
What Makes It Special?
- Minimal Ingredients: Only a few simple ingredients create a flavor-packed meal.
- Effortless Cooking: Set it in the crockpot and forget it.
- Versatile: Enjoy it over rice, mashed potatoes, or in a sandwich.
- Great for Meal Prep: Freezes and reheats beautifully.
What Is Crockpot Mississippi Chicken?
Crockpot Mississippi Chicken is a slow-cooked dish that features tender shredded chicken infused with butter, ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, and tangy pepperoncini peppers. The result is a juicy, flavorful dish with a slight tang and richness that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
The Origins
This recipe is inspired by the famous Mississippi Pot Roast, which originated as a beef dish but has been adapted with chicken for a lighter version that retains all the delicious flavors.
Ingredients for Crockpot Mississippi Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious recipe:
Essential Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
- Butter (for rich flavor and tenderness)
- Ranch seasoning mix (adds a herby, creamy taste)
- Au jus gravy mix (deepens the flavor with a hint of beefiness)
- Pepperoncini peppers (for a slight tang and mild heat)
- Pepperoncini juice (adds acidity and enhances tenderness)
Optional Add-Ons for More Flavor
- Minced garlic (for an extra punch)
- Onions (adds sweetness and depth)
- Red pepper flakes (if you like extra heat)
- Chicken broth (to make it saucier)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crockpot Mississippi Chicken
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start, make sure all ingredients are ready. This makes the process smoother and ensures you don’t forget anything.
Step 2: Prepare Your Crockpot
Lightly grease the crockpot with a little butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix evenly over the chicken.
- Add butter in small chunks on top.
- Scatter pepperoncini peppers around the chicken and pour a bit of pepperoncini juice for extra tang.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 4 hours.
Step 4: Shred and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, shred it using two forks, mixing it into the flavorful juices. Serve it over your favorite sides or in a sandwich for an amazing meal.
Crockpot Mississippi Chicken Recipe Card
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, sliced
- 5-6 whole pepperoncini peppers
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini juice
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle ranch seasoning and au jus mix over the chicken.
- Add the butter and pepperoncini peppers on top.
- Pour in the pepperoncini juice.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Shred the chicken with forks and mix well.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Crockpot Mississippi Chicken
- Use chicken thighs for even juicier meat.
- Add extra pepperoncini juice for more tangy flavor.
- Mix in cream cheese for a creamier texture.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or in sandwiches.
Common Problems and Solutions
Why Is My Chicken Too Salty?
This can happen if you use salted butter or additional seasoning. Use unsalted butter and reduce the au jus mix slightly if needed.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even more tender and juicy when slow-cooked.
How to Fix Dry Chicken in a Crockpot
Make sure you use enough liquid and don’t overcook. If the chicken turns out dry, mix in a little chicken broth or extra butter before serving.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbs | 3g |
| Sodium | 720mg |
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Crockpot Mississippi Chicken
- Mashed potatoes – Perfect for soaking up the rich juices.
- Steamed rice – A great base for this flavorful dish.
- Dinner rolls – For making delicious chicken sliders.
- Roasted vegetables – To add a healthy balance to your meal.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Place in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
Can You Freeze Crockpot Mississippi Chicken?
Yes! Let the chicken cool, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Crockpot Mississippi Chicken
Equipment
- Crockpot
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter sliced
- 5-6 whole pepperoncini peppers
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini juice
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle ranch seasoning and au jus mix over the chicken.
- Add the butter and pepperoncini peppers on top.
- Pour in the pepperoncini juice.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Shred the chicken with forks and mix well.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on high pressure for 12 minutes, then quick release and shred.
What Can I Use Instead of Au Jus Mix?
You can use brown gravy mix or beef bouillon granules as a substitute.
How Spicy Is This Dish?
It has a mild heat from the pepperoncini, but you can remove them if you prefer it milder.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or Ditalini Pasta for a hearty meal.
- Pair with Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread for a sweet and savory combination.
- Add a side of Ground Beef & Cabbage for a comforting, well-rounded dish.
Variations
- Swap chicken for Kielbasa for a smokier flavor.
- Drizzle with Cowboy Butter for an extra rich and tangy twist.
- Use turkey instead of chicken for a great Thanksgiving Dinner alternative.