Why This Recipe Feels Like a Hug
- It's a true 'dump and go' recipe. Literally five minutes of prep.
- The flavor is unbelievable—tangy, savory, and so rich.
- It makes the most tender, juicy shredded chicken ever.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or for delicious leftovers all week.
My family goes wild for this. My son, who is usually the pickiest eater, asked for seconds and then thirds. It's the only recipe I have where the leftovers are fought over the next day. It’s just that good.
Essential Ingredient Guide
- Pepperoncini Peppers: These are the secret star. They don't make the dish super spicy, they just add this incredible, tangy background note that cuts through the richness of the butter and au jus. Don't skip them!
- Ranch Seasoning: This brings all the savory, herby goodness. It's the backbone of the flavor profile and what makes it feel so comforting and familiar.
Complete Cooking Process
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The Simple Rhythm of Mississippi Chicken:
- Layering the Flavors: Start by placing your chicken in the slow cooker. This is your canvas.
- The Seasoning Shower: Sprinkle the ranch and au jus packets over the top. It feels like you're tucking the chicken in with a flavorful blanket.
- The Butter and Peppers: Place the butter on top, then arrange the peppers. It looks a little funny, but this is where the magic happens.
- The Slow Simmer: Let the slow cooker do its thing for hours. The house will start to smell amazing, a little promise of the deliciousness to come.
- The Final Shred: The best part! Shredding the tender chicken and watching it soak up all that incredible sauce. It's so satisfying.
Your Questions, Answered
→ Is Mississippi Chicken spicy?
Honestly, no. The pepperoncini peppers are quite mild and mostly add a tangy, vinegary flavor. If you're worried, you can use fewer peppers, but they really make the dish special.
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs would be wonderful. They have a bit more fat, which will make the final dish even more rich and tender. The cooking time should be about the same.
→ What if I don't have an au jus packet?
You could substitute a brown gravy mix or an onion soup mix in a pinch. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Chef's Tips
Feel free to adjust the number of pepperoncini peppers to your taste. I sometimes throw in a few extra because I love the tang.,This recipe easily doubles for a larger crowd. Just make sure your slow cooker is big enough.
Mississippi Chicken: Easy Recipe
This Mississippi Chicken recipe is honestly one of the easiest, most flavorful meals you can make. With just a handful of ingredients, you get unbelievably tender, shredded chicken swimming in a tangy, savory sauce that fills the whole house with the most comforting aroma.
Timing
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
4-6 hours
Total Time
4 hours 5 minutes
Recipe Details
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 01 4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 02 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 03 1 packet (1 ounce) au jus gravy mix
- 04 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 05 8-10 pepperoncini peppers
- 06 1/4 cup pepperoncini juice (from the jar)
Instructions
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Just lay them in a single layer if you can.
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken. Then, do the same with the au jus gravy mix. Try to coat them nicely.
Place the whole stick of butter right on top of the chicken. Yeah, the whole thing. Trust the process.
Scatter the pepperoncini peppers around the butter and chicken. Then, pour that lovely pepperoncini juice over everything.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. You'll know it's ready when the chicken is fall-apart tender.
Once cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Give it a good stir to mix all that wonderful sauce into the meat. Let it sit for a few more minutes to soak up all the flavor.
Notes & Tips
- 1 Feel free to adjust the number of pepperoncini peppers to your taste. I sometimes throw in a few extra because I love the tang.
- 2 This recipe easily doubles for a larger crowd. Just make sure your slow cooker is big enough.
Tools You'll Need
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Slow Cooker (6-quart or larger)
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Two forks (for shredding)
-
Measuring Cups
Must-Know Tips
- Don't add any extra liquid! The chicken and butter will release plenty of moisture to create the sauce.
- For the best flavor, let the shredded chicken sit in the juices for at least 10-15 minutes before serving.
- This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. The flavor gets even better the next day.
Professional Secrets
- After shredding, if you want a slightly thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken and turn the slow cooker to high. Whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water and let it bubble for a few minutes.
- For a little extra depth, try searing the chicken breasts in a hot pan for a couple of minutes on each side before adding them to the slow cooker. It's an extra step, but it adds a lovely layer of flavor.
Recipe by
Sofia Marin“Dinner is where stories are shared and flavors shine. I craft comforting recipes perfect for family nights.” 🍷🍲
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