Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Chicken Breasts

When life gets busy, simple recipes save the day. These slow cooker 4-ingredient chicken breasts are proof that you don’t need a long ingredient list to make tender, flavorful chicken. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, the slow cooker does all the work, giving you juicy chicken that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or easy shredding for multiple meals.

This recipe is versatile, dependable, and ideal for anyone who wants a no-stress dinner that turns out right every time.

Why This Recipe Works

Chicken breasts can easily turn dry, but cooking them low and slow keeps them moist and tender. The simple seasoning blend enhances the natural flavor of the chicken without overpowering it, making this dish easy to pair with almost any side or sauce. Because the ingredients are so minimal, the chicken can be used in salads, wraps, bowls, or sandwiches throughout the week.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 packet dry ranch seasoning mix
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
½ cup chicken broth

That’s it—just four ingredients for a comforting, flavorful main dish.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray or a small amount of oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

2. Add the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. If the breasts are very thick, you can pound them slightly for more even cooking.

3. Mix the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and dry ranch seasoning mix until smooth.

4. Cook

Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated.

Cover and cook:

Low: 4–5 hours
High: 2½–3 hours

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fork-tender.

Serving Options

Serve the chicken whole with the sauce spooned over the top, or shred it directly in the slow cooker and stir it into the creamy mixture. This recipe pairs well with:

Mashed potatoes or rice
Steamed vegetables or green beans
Pasta or egg noodles
Buns or tortillas for sandwiches and wraps

Tips for Best Results

Avoid overcooking: Chicken breasts can dry out if left too long, even in a slow cooker.
Shred easily: Use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker.
Add thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
Use frozen chicken: Frozen breasts can be used, but increase cook time by about 1 hour on low.

Easy Variations

You can customize this recipe while still keeping it simple:

Cheesy Chicken: Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar at the end.
Garlic Ranch: Add ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional fifth ingredient).
Buffalo Style: Mix in ¼ cup buffalo sauce before serving.
Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soup, broth, and seasoning mix.

Storage and Meal Prep

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken in sauce for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth.

Final Thoughts

These slow cooker 4-ingredient chicken breasts are a weeknight lifesaver. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe proves that simple cooking can still be satisfying and delicious. Whether you serve it fresh for dinner or use it as a base for multiple meals, it’s a recipe you’ll reach for again and again.

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