The name says it all: Slow Cooker Million Dollar Chicken is a dish that delivers incredible flavor at a surprisingly low cost. This creamy, dreamy chicken recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and its simplicity belies the richness of the final product. Get ready to experience chicken like you've never had before!
What is Million Dollar Chicken?
Million Dollar Chicken isn't some fancy, exotic bird. The name refers to the incredibly rich and flavorful sauce that coats the chicken, making it taste far more luxurious than its simple ingredients suggest. The magic lies in the combination of cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and a blend of seasonings that create a velvety, decadent sauce that clings beautifully to the tender chicken.
Why Use a Slow Cooker?
The slow cooker is the key to this recipe's success. The low and slow cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and juicy, while the flavors meld together beautifully. This method requires minimal effort, leaving you with more time to focus on other things while dinner practically cooks itself.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks.
- Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or your favorite side dish.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the sauce.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Throw in some chopped carrots, celery, or onions during the last hour of cooking.
- Make it creamy: Use full-fat sour cream and cream of mushroom soup for the richest possible sauce.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How Long Does Million Dollar Chicken Last?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, leftover Million Dollar Chicken will last for 3-4 days. You can easily reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can You Freeze Million Dollar Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Million Dollar Chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Is Million Dollar Chicken Healthy?
While this recipe is undeniably delicious, it's important to be mindful of its calorie and fat content due to the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Consider using low-fat or light versions of these ingredients to reduce the overall fat and calorie count. You can also add more vegetables to increase the nutritional value.
What to Serve with Million Dollar Chicken?
The versatility of Million Dollar Chicken makes it a perfect partner for many side dishes. Some popular choices include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice (white or brown)
- Egg noodles
- Roasted vegetables
- Green beans
- Salad
This slow cooker Million Dollar Chicken recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Its ease of preparation, incredible flavor, and adaptability make it a winner for any occasion. Enjoy!
