Super Easy Crockpot Ranch Chicken Sandwiches

Crockpot recipes are a lifesaver for me on busy weeknights when I’m suffering from decision fatigue and brain fog. They’re usually easy to prepare and require minimal effort. They also allow me to keep my kitchen clean and tidy since I can prepare a meal for my family without creating much of a mess. 

This Super Easy Crockpot Ranch Chicken is a simple dish that’s packed with flavor and can be served in a variety of ways other than just sandwiches. I love being able to quickly throw everything into the crockpot in the morning and come home in the evening to a meal that is already nearly ready to go.

This is my go-to recipe for everything. 

Seriously, in addition to being a big mealtime hit, it has gotten me through two different graduation parties, high school sports meals, and a host of other family and friend gatherings. It is so easy to make, delicious, failproof, and an affordable way to feed a large group.

This low-stress, Crockpot Ranch Chicken Sandwich recipe is a delicious and easy way get dinner on the table with minimal effort. I like to double the recipe and serve chicken taco salads (see serving suggestion below) on the second night. But it is so versatile that you could also do chicken tacos, wraps, or Chicken Philly’s as suggested below. There are many possibilities.  Since I almost always have chicken breast, butter, and ranch seasoning on hand, it is the perfect meal for those chaotic days when meal planning didn’t get done. Give this recipe a try and see why it’s become a favorite in our household.

Ingredients:

• 2 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, frozen
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
• 6-8 Sliced Kaiser Rolls (or similar)
• Desired toppings: Lettuce, onion, BBQ sauce, tomato, pickles etc.

Instructions:

Place frozen chicken in the crockpot. This is a great way to cook frozen chicken without having to thaw it first.

Add the butter. The butter will melt and add richness to the chicken.

Pour the ranch dressing mix over the chicken. The ranch dressing mix will infuse the chicken with a delicious flavor as it cooks. 

Cook: On low for 6-7 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. This will allow the chicken to cook slowly and become tender.

Shred the chicken. Once the chicken is tender enough to fall apart, use a fork to shred it thoroughly and mix it well with the juices. Do not drain any of the juices. A hand mixer works surprisingly well to quickly and easily shred the chicken as well.

Serve. Divide the chicken among buns and top with your desired toppings: tomato, lettuce, onion, pickles, cheese, etc.

Tips:

Not using frozen chicken? Reduce your cooking times by at least one hour.

Toast the Buns:  Optionally, you can choose to butter and toast the buns. I would especially do this if you choose to use softer buns. This will give the buns more firmness so that the chicken does not make them soggy.

Other Serving Suggestions for This Crockpot Ranch Chicken Recipe:

Chicken Philly Sandwiches: Add chopped green pepper or jalapeno peppers and chopped onions and serve on hoagie buns with Monterey Jack cheese. Heat in the microwave for 20 seconds to melt the cheese.

California Style Ranch Chicken Sandwiches or Wraps: Add two slices of crispy bacon, tomato slices and sliced ripe avocado.

Chicken Taco Salads: Add one tablespoon of taco seasoning to the chicken while cooking. Assemble taco salads with your choice of the following ingredients: Lettuce, black beans, tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, sour cream, and olives. Top with prepared chicken and serve with tortilla chips and fresh salsa.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Crockpot Ranch Chicken:

Easy to make: This recipe requires minimal effort and is perfect for busy weeknights.

Packed with flavor: The ranch dressing mix adds a delicious flavor punch to the chicken.

Versatile: This recipe can be served in a variety of ways, from sandwiches to salads.

Hands-off: Once the ingredients are in the crockpot, you can let it cook without any further attention. 

If you would like to try another easy crockpot meal that is fuss free and a long time favorite in my family, try my Easy Beef Stroganoff. Comfort food does not get better than this.

A meal planning system that will pay for itself in:

Reduced grocery bills, saved mental energy, less food waste, fewer trips to the grocery store, more family time, better nutrition, and a more organized pantry.