Flavors Worth Savoring
As the sun sets, the air fills with the smell of chicken and spices. It’s time to gather around the table for a delicious meal. The best Mississippi Chicken recipe is here, made just for your crockpot and busy days.
Key Takeaways
- Versatile and easy-to-make Mississippi Chicken recipe perfect for busy weeknights
- Slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot for tender, juicy, and flavorful results
- Uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients like chicken, gravy mix, and pepperoncinis
- Can be served in a variety of ways, from sandwiches to tacos to over mashed potatoes
- Customizable to suit your family’s tastes, with options for dairy-free, low-carb, and spicier versions
Why This Mississippi Chicken Recipe Will Become Your Family Favorite
If you’re looking for a comforting, family-friendly meal for busy weeknights, try this Mississippi Chicken recipe. It’s full of irresistible flavors and is super convenient. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Convenience and Time-Saving Benefits
This recipe is super easy to make, needing only 5 minutes of prep time. Just toss the chicken, peppers, gravy mix, and ranch seasoning into your slow cooker. Then, set it and forget it. The crockpot cooks it to perfection, making a delicious, tender dish ready when you are.
Perfect for Busy Weeknight Dinners
Busy weeknights need quick and satisfying comfort food recipes. This Mississippi Chicken is perfect. It cooks in just 3 hours, so you can have a hearty, southern meal ready fast. This leaves you more time to enjoy with your family.
Budget-Friendly Meal Option
Feeding a family can be pricey, but this family-friendly meal is affordable. It uses chicken, peppers, and pantry staples, making it budget-friendly. Plus, it makes 8 servings, so you can have leftovers for the next day.
“This Mississippi Chicken recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights! It’s so easy to make, and the flavor is out of this world. My whole family loves it.”
Essential Ingredients for Mississippi Chicken
The secret to the mouthwatering Mississippi Chicken recipe lies in its carefully selected ingredients. At the heart of this dish are boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These provide a lean and protein-rich base.
The real flavor magic comes from the dynamic duo of au jus gravy mix and ranch seasoning mix. These two seasoning packets work in perfect harmony. They infuse the chicken with a unique savory and tangy profile.
The addition of tangy pepperoncini peppers and their flavorful juice adds a delightful zing. A generous helping of butter provides a rich, velvety mouthfeel. This ties the dish together seamlessly.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts | 2 lbs. |
| Pepperoncini Peppers | 10-12 whole |
| Pepperoncini Juice | 1/2 cup |
| Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix | 1 oz. packet |
| Dry Au Jus Gravy Mix | 1 oz. packet |
| Unsalted Butter, cubed | 1/2 cup |
This carefully curated blend of ingredients is the key to creating the irresistible, flavor-packed mississippi chicken. It will have your family begging for seconds. Get ready to wow your taste buds with this exceptional dish!
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the tasty Mississippi Chicken in your crockpot or slow cooker, you need a few basic tools. First, you’ll need a good slow cooker. A 6-quart model is best for this recipe, which uses 2 pounds of chicken breasts.
You’ll also need some extra tools. A strong cutting board and a sharp chef’s knife help with chopping onions. After cooking, use forks or a hand mixer to shred the chicken.
Slow Cooker Specifications
For the best results, pick a 6-quart slow cooker with a timer and temperature control. This size ensures the chicken cooks evenly. Also, look for one with a removable stoneware insert for easy cleaning.
Additional Helpful Tools
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Forks or hand mixer
- Ladle for serving
- Serving spoons
Optional Equipment for Serving
While not essential, the right serving dishes can make your Mississippi Chicken look better. Use a large bowl or platter for the chicken. Also, have smaller bowls for toppings or sides.
With the right crockpot and basic tools, you’re ready to make a delicious slow cooker Mississippi Chicken. Your family will love it.
Step-by-Step Mississippi Chicken Recipe
Making the perfect Mississippi Chicken in your crockpot is simple. It’s a favorite for busy weeknights or weekend meals. Here’s how to make this tasty dish:
- Place 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2.5 pounds) in your slow cooker.
- Sprinkle 1/2 packet of dry onion soup mix or au jus gravy mix over the chicken.
- Add 1/2 packet of ranch dressing mix on top of the chicken.
- Toss in 1 cup (or 10 whole) pepperoncini peppers and 1/2 cup of their juice.
- If you want, pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth for extra moisture.
- Top it all with 1/4 cup of salted butter, cut into small pieces.
Cover your slow cooker and cook the Mississippi Chicken on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. Wait until the chicken hits 165°F. Then, use two forks to shred the chicken in the crockpot, mixing it with the sauce.
Serve your tender, juicy Mississippi Chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite sides. It’s a delicious and easy meal. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Tender and Juicy Results
To get the most tender and flavorful crock pot mississippi chicken, follow these key tips:
Temperature Control Guidelines
Cook your tender & flavorful crock pot mississippi chicken on low heat for 6-8 hours. Don’t open the lid too often, as it can mess with the temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is at 165°F. This means it’s cooked and ready to eat.
Timing and Doneness Indicators
For your crock pot mississippi chicken, aim for 6-8 hours on low. This long cooking time makes the flavors blend and the meat tender. If you’re in a hurry, high heat for 3-4 hours works too. But low and slow is usually better.
Proper Shredding Techniques
After your mississippi chicken is done, let it rest a bit before shredding. Use two forks or an electric mixer in the crockpot for easy shredding. This way, the chicken shreds well and tastes great.
“Cooking the tender & flavorful crock pot mississippi chicken on low heat for a long time is the secret to that soft, tender texture.”
Flavorful Variations and Customizations
The classic Mississippi chicken recipe is loved by many. But, you can make it even better. Try these tasty variations and customizations to elevate your Mississippi chicken.
Creamy Mississippi Chicken: Add 8 ounces of softened cream cheese just before serving. This creamy twist will make your taste buds happy.
- Make the veggies more exciting by adding diced bell peppers, carrots, or other crunchy vegetables to the slow cooker.
- Change the heat by adjusting the amount of pepperoncini peppers and their tangy juice.
- For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter and homemade ranch seasoning instead of the store-bought mix.
Want a lower-carb meal? Serve your Mississippi chicken over cauliflower rice or with steamed veggies. It’s a healthy and tasty choice.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | 8 oz | 800 | 16g | 76g | 6g |
| Bell Pepper | 1 cup, diced | 52 | 2g | 0.3g | 12g |
| Carrots | 1 cup, sliced | 52 | 1g | 0.3g | 12g |
| Plant-based Butter | 4 tbsp | 400 | 0g | 44g | 0g |
| Cauliflower Rice | 2 cups | 52 | 4g | 0.6g | 10g |
Be creative and show off your cajun-inspired cooking skills with these mississippi chicken variations. You can turn this classic dish into a new family favorite.
Best Side Dish Pairings
Choosing the right side dishes can make your Mississippi Chicken meal even better. You can pick from classic soul food or healthier options. Each choice brings out the best in this Southern dish.
Traditional Southern Sides
For a real Southern taste, try mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles with your Mississippi Chicken. These sides are comforting and let the chicken’s rich flavor stand out.
Healthy Alternative Options
Want a lighter meal? Try cauliflower rice, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad with your chicken. These options add a nice contrast to the bold chicken flavors.
Other great sides include garlic bread, coleslaw, or air-fried veggies. Mississippi Chicken is versatile, so feel free to try different combinations. You can even use it in tacos, sliders, or as pizza toppings.
| Traditional Southern Sides | Healthy Alternative Options |
|---|---|
|
|
It’s all about finding the right mix of flavors and textures to go with your Mississippi Chicken. With a bit of creativity, you can turn this dish into a memorable meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Proper storage and reheating are crucial for your tasty leftover leftover chicken recipes. Whether you’re prepping meals or enjoying leftovers, follow these tips. They’ll keep your Mississippi Chicken fresh and flavorful.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To reheat, you have a few options. Warm the chicken in the microwave, stirring often, until hot. Or, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat. Add broth or water to keep it moist. The flavors often blend better the next day.
| Storage Method | Refrigerator | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Shelf Life | Up to 5 days | Up to 3 months |
With these tips, enjoy your Mississippi Chicken for days. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Making Mississippi Chicken Recipe Keto-Friendly
If you’re on a keto or low-carb diet, you can make Mississippi Chicken work for you. Just a few changes can keep you on track with your health goals. This way, you can enjoy the dish’s great taste.
Low-Carb Substitutions
Instead of rice or mashed potatoes, try cauliflower rice or roasted veggies like broccoli or zucchini. These swaps cut down carbs, making the dish keto-friendly.
Macronutrient Breakdown
Mississippi Chicken is packed with protein and has the right amount of fat for a keto diet. Use low-sodium broth and check your seasoning mixes for carbs. The exact nutrients will vary based on your ingredients and portion sizes. Always calculate the nutritional info for your recipe.
FAQ
What is Mississippi Chicken?
Mississippi Chicken is a tasty dinner recipe for busy weeknights. It’s made in a crockpot with chicken, au jus gravy, ranch seasoning, pepperoncinis, and butter. It’s known for its tender chicken and rich flavors.
What are the key ingredients in Mississippi Chicken?
The main ingredients are chicken breasts, au jus gravy mix, ranch seasoning mix, pepperoncini peppers, chicken stock, butter, and onions. The au jus and ranch give it a unique taste. Pepperoncinis add a tangy touch.
What equipment is needed to make Mississippi Chicken?
You’ll need a slow cooker or crockpot. A cutting board, knife for onions, and forks or a mixer for shredding are also helpful. For serving, have a ladle, spoons, and dishes for sides like mashed potatoes or rice.
How do you make Mississippi Chicken in a crockpot?
Place chicken in the crockpot, add seasoning mixes, onions, pepperoncinis, broth, and butter. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Make sure the chicken is 165°F. Then, shred it and mix with the sauce.
What are some tips for achieving the perfect Mississippi Chicken?
Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours. Don’t open the lid too often to keep the temperature steady. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s temperature. Let it rest before shredding. For easy shredding, use two forks or an electric hand mixer in the crockpot.
Can Mississippi Chicken be customized or varied?
Yes, you can add cream cheese for a creamier sauce or more vegetables. Adjust spice levels with pepperoncini juice. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and homemade ranch seasoning. Serve over cauliflower rice or with steamed vegetables for a low-carb option.
What are some good side dish options for Mississippi Chicken?
Try mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles as traditional sides. For a healthier choice, serve with cauliflower rice, steamed broccoli, or a side salad. Garlic bread, coleslaw, or air-fried vegetables are also great options.
How do you store and reheat leftover Mississippi Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months. Thaw overnight if frozen, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. It often tastes better the next day.
How can you make Mississippi Chicken keto-friendly?
Serve it over cauliflower rice or with low-carb vegetables to make it keto-friendly. Use low-sodium broth and check seasoning mixes for carbs. It’s high in protein and moderate in fat.
