Mississippi Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mississippi Chicken is a savory, tangy, and comforting dish that’s incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients. Featuring tender shredded chicken infused with ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, butter, and pepperoncini peppers, it’s a flavorful, no-fuss meal perfect for busy weeknights. Cooked in a slow cooker or oven, it pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or sandwich rolls.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breastsranch seasoning mixau jus gravy mixunsalted butterpepperoncini peppers (plus some of the juice)optional: garlic powder, onion powder

directions

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a slow cooker or baking dish.

Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus mix evenly over the chicken.

Add the butter in slices over the top.

Scatter pepperoncini peppers and a few tablespoons of pepperoncini juice on and around the chicken.

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours in a slow cooker, or bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-50 minutes if using an oven.

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the dish and mix well to coat in the flavorful juices.

Serve hot with your choice of side.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 6-7 hours (slow cooker) or 45-50 minutes (oven)Total time: varies by method

Variations

Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor and juicier texture.

Add cream cheese at the end for a creamy twist.

Mix in cooked pasta or serve over egg noodles for a heartier meal.

Make it spicy by adding crushed red pepper flakes.

Top with shredded cheese before serving for extra indulgence.

storage/reheating

Store Mississippi Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure to increase the cooking time slightly and ensure it’s fully cooked before shredding.

Is it spicy?

The pepperoncini adds tang more than heat. You can reduce the amount for a milder dish.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook on high pressure for 15 minutes with a natural release for 10 minutes.

What sides go well with Mississippi Chicken?

Mashed potatoes, rice, cauliflower rice, or sandwich rolls are all great options.

Can I use homemade seasoning mixes?

Absolutely, you can use your own ranch and gravy mixes if preferred.

Can I skip the butter?

The butter adds richness, but you can reduce the amount or use a healthier alternative like olive oil.

Does this work with beef or pork?

Yes, this style of cooking works well with chuck roast or pork shoulder too.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker?

Yes, cook on high for about 3-4 hours instead of low for 6-7 hours.

Do I have to shred the chicken?

No, you can slice or serve whole, but shredding allows the flavor to fully soak in.

Conclusion

Mississippi Chicken is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it comfort food. With bold flavor, minimal prep, and versatile serving options, it’s a go-to recipe for any day of the week. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for the week, this tangy, buttery chicken dish is sure to satisfy.

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