Easy Flavorful Dump Crockpot Chicken Recipe 3 Ingredients Set and Forget
A simple, flavorful slow cooker chicken recipe using just three ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights, this set-and-forget meal yields tender, juicy chicken with minimal prep.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes (low) or 3 hours 5 minutes (high)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 ½ cups salsa (medium or mild)
- 1 ounce ranch dressing mix packet
- Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
- Optional: shredded cheese for serving
Instructions
- Rinse the chicken breasts or thighs and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a medium bowl, combine salsa and ranch dressing mix; stir until ranch mix dissolves.
- Place chicken pieces in the slow cooker in a single layer.
- Pour the salsa-ranch mixture evenly over the chicken without stirring.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until chicken reaches 165°F and is tender.
- About 15 minutes before serving, shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks and mix into the sauce (optional).
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
- Serve warm over rice, tortillas, or salad; garnish with cilantro and cheese if desired.
Notes
Use thighs for juicier chicken; breasts work but watch cooking time to avoid dryness. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain heat. Optional add-ins include jalapeño for spice or fresh herbs for flavor. Instant Pot can be used as a shortcut with 12 minutes high pressure cooking and natural release.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/4 of
- Calories: 280320
- Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 12
- Protein: 35
Keywords: slow cooker chicken, crockpot chicken, easy chicken recipe, dump and go, ranch chicken, salsa chicken, set and forget, weeknight dinner