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Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken is the ultimate hands-off dinner that combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful, tender meal that melts in your mouth. It takes just minutes to prep, then slow cooks into juicy chicken infused with the tangy bite of pepperoncini and the rich goodness of butter and savory seasoning mixes. Perfect for busy days or whenever you want a fuss-free but impressive dish.
I first tried making this on a hectic weekday when I needed dinner ready but couldn’t fuss over the stove. Now it’s one of my go to meals when I want a cozy, comforting plate without standing over the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Chicken: Three pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts – fresh or frozen, fresh gives a bit more texture while frozen works well for long cook times
- Au jus gravy mix: One packet au jus gravy mix – adds a rich, beefy flavor that deepens the sauce low sodium versions are available if you want to watch salt
- Ranch dressing mix: One packet ranch dressing mix – brings that creamy tang of ranch seasoning without extra effort homemade versions work too
- Salted butter: Half cup salted butter – real butter is crucial for flavor and richness unsalted can be used if you control salt elsewhere
- Pepperoncini peppers: Six pepperoncini peppers – mild peppers that add bright tang and some moisture, not heat look for jars with peppers and juice for optional spiciness
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken or Not:
- Place the chicken breasts directly at the bottom of your slow cooker. There is no need to brown or sear because slow cooking will keep the meat juicy and tender.
- Season Everything Generously:
- Sprinkle the au jus gravy mix evenly over the chicken. Then sprinkle the ranch dressing mix on top. These dry packets infuse the chicken with classic Mississippi flavors.
- Add the Butter and Peppers:
- Lay the stick of salted butter over the top of the chicken and seasoning. Distribute the six whole pepperoncini peppers around the butter and chicken. For more tang and slight heat you can add some of the pepperoncini juice as well.
- Cook Low and Slow:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Do not lift the lid during cooking the chicken will produce enough juices without adding any extra liquid.
- Shred and Serve:
- After cooking remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. The meat should pull apart easily and be very tender. Serve it right away on buns, over mashed potatoes, or alongside your favorite vegetables.
Watching my family’s delight as they dig into warm piles of shredded chicken that almost fall apart at the touch of a fork is one of my favorite food memories. It’s like a cozy hug in a meal.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist. For longer storage wrap portions well and freeze for up to three months.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find au jus gravy mix try using onion soup mix or brown gravy mix as a tasty alternative. For the ranch seasoning a homemade blend of dried herbs and spices can work well if you want to avoid packets. Using chicken thighs is great for a richer flavor but reduce butter by half since thighs have more fat naturally.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken shredded on soft sandwich rolls with melted provolone cheese for an easy sandwich. Spoon it over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful juices or alongside steamed green beans for a balanced meal. It also pairs nicely with rice or cauliflower rice for a low carb twist.
This Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken is an easy family friendly meal that requires little hands on time and delivers big flavor.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, but chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor and adjusted butter amount.
- → Can this be made with frozen chicken?
Yes, frozen chicken breasts can be used, making it convenient for longer cooking times, but check your slow cooker guidelines first.
- → Does peperoncini add spiciness?
Peperoncini peppers add a mild tangy flavor but no significant heat unless you include the juice for a slight kick.
- → How long should it cook?
Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours; this slow simmering produces tender, juicy chicken that shreds easily.
- → What are suggested serving ideas?
Serve shredded over mashed potatoes, on rolls with cheese, or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.