Zesty chicken is about to become your go-to slow cooker recipe – it’s delicious, it’s simple, and it works with everything!
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Jump to RecipeZesty chicken is one of those slow cooker meals that are effortless – dump it all in and set it aside for something delicious to eat all week long.
The thing you’ll notice about zesty chicken right off the bat is that it’s easy. It’s one of the simplest recipes I’ve ever shared – dump spices and flavors into a bowl, stir, and pour over chicken. Push a button and walk away.
But beyond how absurdly easy it is is the fact that it’s really freaking good. As in, every time I make it my husband asks why we don’t make it more. The flavor is rich and bursting with flavor, making you take one more bite straight from the pot even while you’re packing the leftovers in the fridge. It’s one of those powerhouse dishes that everyone loves – kids included – but is so simple to throw together that it’ll make your regular rotation!
This recipe started as a Pinterest find that was essentially chicken, ranch seasoning, and Italian dressing. Over the years I’ve adjusted and added to it, but the base stayed the same because those are always in the house.
This is a meal prep gold medal winner. Make a batch of zesty chicken on Sunday and you’ve got protein for a week of meals! Salads, grain bowls, alongside some roasted vegetables, even on a sandwich or panini. You can do the same thing every day or mix it up if you tend to get bored
Another way to use it all week is a weeknight meal lifesaver: make this on the weekend, then prep easy vegetarian entrees or veggies to pair every night.
Tools you’ll need: slow cooker.
Zesty Chicken
Ingredients
- 4-5 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 Tbsp minced onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 Tbsp cumin
- 1/2 Tbsp chili powder
- 1/2 small bottle Italian dressing
- 1/2 Tbsp dried parsley
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except chicken and stir well to combine.
- Spray a slow cooker with cooking spray, then put the chicken breasts in. Pour the seasoning over the chicken.
- Cook on low for six hours. Remove the bay leaves and shred the chicken.
Do you like to meal prep the same thing every day, or mix it up?
Want other meal prep heroes? Try Greek chicken bowls, hoisin stir fry, or pesto quinoa chicken!
