Let me share my absolute favorite easy dinner recipe with you! These Crockpot Chicken Ranch Tacos are pure magic - just chicken and 3 simple ingredients transform into the most amazing filling after a few hours in the slow cooker. My family begs for these whether we're making tacos, salads or burritos. And with summer coming, I love that I don't have to heat up the kitchen!
All About The Flavor
I'm telling you, something magical happens when you combine ranch seasoning mix with homemade taco spices. The chicken comes out so tender and flavorful, my kids literally cheer when they smell it cooking! And if you're a ranch lover like me, an extra drizzle of dressing on top takes these over the edge.
What You'll Need
- Chicken: I use boneless skinless breasts or thighs whatever I have on hand
- Ranch Mix: One packet brings that perfect tangy ranch flavor
- Taco Seasoning: My homemade blend saves money and tastes way better than store bought
- Chicken Broth: I love Better Than Bouillon but any broth works great
Let's Get Cooking
- Start With The Chicken
- Pop your chicken right into the crockpot bottom
- Season It Up
- Sprinkle over that ranch mix and taco seasoning then pour in your broth
- Low and Slow
- Cover and let it cook on low for 5-6 hours until it's tender enough to shred
- Shred Time
- Use two forks to pull apart that juicy chicken right in the crockpot
- Time to Eat
- Load up your tacos or top your salad dig in and enjoy!
Make Life Easy
I love that I can toss everything in the crockpot in the morning and come home to dinner practically ready to go! All that's left is shredding the chicken and setting out toppings. Perfect for those busy days when cooking is the last thing you want to think about.
Make It Your Own
Want to kick up the heat? Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Watching calories? Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas. This chicken is so versatile we use it for tacos burritos and my favorite taco salads!
DIY Taco Seasoning
Listen once you try making your own taco seasoning you'll never go back to store bought! Just mix chili powder garlic powder onion powder cumin paprika oregano salt and pepper. So much cheaper than packets and you control exactly what goes in it.
All About That Broth
Here's a little secret Better Than Bouillon is my secret weapon for extra rich flavor. Just a spoonful in hot water gives you the most amazing broth. Of course any chicken broth works but this really takes it up a notch!
Perfect Any Time
Whether it's Taco Tuesday a weekend get together or just a busy weeknight this recipe never disappoints. The chicken turns out so flavorful and tender everyone can customize their tacos exactly how they like them.
Hands Off Cooking
The best part? This recipe practically cooks itself! Just 5 minutes of prep in the morning and your slow cooker does all the work. No hovering over the stove or complicated steps just delicious dinner ready when you are.
Kids Love It
My little ones get so excited when they smell this cooking! They love building their own tacos and the ranch flavor is always a hit. Plus it's tender enough that even my picky eater devours it.
Taco Night Made Easy
Want to host taco night? This recipe is your answer! The chicken stays warm in the crockpot while everyone serves themselves. Just set out tortillas toppings and sides for the perfect DIY taco bar.
Not Just For Tacos
This chicken makes the most amazing salads! I love it over crisp lettuce with avocado tomatoes and a drizzle of ranch. It's my go to lunch prep and keeps me satisfied all afternoon.
Feed a Crowd
Having people over? This recipe is perfect! Double the ingredients for a larger crowd and set up a taco bar. Everyone loves customizing their own tacos and you get to enjoy the party instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
Budget Friendly
You won't believe how affordable this meal is! Chicken is usually on sale somewhere and making your own seasonings saves so much money. Plus it makes plenty for leftovers saving you even more.
Freeze For Later
Sometimes I make a double batch just to freeze! Let the extra chicken cool then pop it in freezer bags. It reheats beautifully for quick meals later perfect for those crazy busy weeks.
Love Those Leftovers
The possibilities for leftovers are endless! We make quesadillas nachos or add it to soup. The flavor just gets better and it's such a time saver having cooked chicken ready to go.
Complete The Meal
Don't forget the sides! We love serving this with Mexican rice fresh guacamole and beans. Add some corn salad for extra color and you've got a feast that'll make everyone happy.
Simple But Amazing
It still amazes me how just a few ingredients can make something so delicious! The combination of ranch and taco seasoning with tender juicy chicken is absolutely perfect every time.
Dig In and Enjoy
These Crockpot Chicken Ranch Tacos have become our family's favorite dinner for good reason. They're easy delicious and always hit the spot! Give them a try and I know they'll become your go to recipe too.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts but add an extra hour to the cooking time. Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature before shredding.
- → What if I don't have ranch seasoning mix?
You can make your own with dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. Mix these with some dried buttermilk powder for a similar taste.
- → Can I make this spicier?
Add some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the crockpot. You can also use spicy taco seasoning instead of regular.
- → How long do leftovers last?
Store the chicken mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and assemble tacos fresh when ready to eat.
- → Can I use other toppings?
Try diced tomatoes, sour cream, or avocado slices. You can also add black beans or corn to stretch the filling further.
Conclusion
These crockpot ranch chicken tacos combine tender shredded chicken with taco and ranch seasonings for an easy weeknight dinner. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic.