There’s something wildly satisfying about a recipe you can toss in the slow cooker and forget until dinner time. This Lazy Day Creamy Ranch Chicken (Dump & Go!) is exactly that — minimal effort, maximum comfort. With ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and a creamy sauce, it’s a cozy winner for nights when you want flavor without fuss. Serve it over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a hearty meal that feels indulgent without the work. This method is similar to how we make Creamy Ranch Chicken Crockpot, but even easier.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs | 2 lb (≈ 900 g) |
| Dry ranch seasoning mix | 1 packet (≈ 1 oz / 28 g) or 2 Tbsp homemade |
| Cream of chicken soup (condensed) | 1 can (≈ 10.5 oz / 300 g) |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 oz (≈ 227 g) |
| Milk or chicken broth | ½ cup (≈ 120 ml) |
| Minced garlic | 2 cloves |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley or chives, chopped | a few Tbsp (garnish) |
Instructions
- Lightly grease the insert of your slow cooker.
- Place chicken in the slow cooker and sprinkle with ranch mix, salt, and pepper.
- Add minced garlic over the chicken.
- Dollop the cream cheese evenly on top.
- Pour the cream of chicken soup and milk (or broth) over everything.
- Cover and cook on Low for 5–6 hours or High for 2½–3 hours.
- When chicken is done, shred it with two forks directly in the pot.
- Stir everything together into a smooth, creamy mixture. Garnish and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Over fluffy white rice or buttery mashed potatoes
- With steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables
- Inside soft tortillas as ranch chicken wraps
This recipe pairs wonderfully with recipes like Slow Cooker Garlic Chicken Thighs (Dump & Go) for a rotation of easy weeknight dinners.
Estimated Nutrition (per serving, serves 6)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ≈ 420 kcal |
| Protein | ≈ 35‑38 g |
| Carbohydrates | ≈ 4‑6 g |
| Total Fat | ≈ 28‑30 g |
| Saturated Fat | ≈ 10‑12 g |
| Sodium | Moderate to high |
For an even creamier spin, try Marry Me Chicken Crockpot Edition next time—it’s another reader favorite!
Tips & Variations
- Use thighs for richer flavor if preferred.
- Add frozen peas or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Try with homemade ranch mix to lower sodium.
- Swap cream of chicken soup with mushroom or celery versions for a new twist.
Lazy Day Creamy Ranch Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hrs 5 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Lazy Day Creamy Ranch Chicken is the perfect dump-and-go crockpot dinner. With ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and condensed soup, it delivers a thick and flavorful sauce that’s perfect over mashed potatoes or rice.
Ingredients
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – 2 lb
Dry ranch seasoning mix – 1 packet or 2 Tbsp homemade
Cream of chicken soup – 1 can (10.5 oz)
Cream cheese – 8 oz, softened
Milk or chicken broth – ½ cup
Minced garlic – 2 cloves
Salt and pepper – to taste
Chopped parsley or chives – for garnish
Instructions
1. Lightly grease your slow cooker insert.
2. Place chicken in the crockpot and sprinkle with ranch mix, salt, and pepper.
3. Add minced garlic on top.
4. Dollop cream cheese across chicken pieces.
5. Pour cream of chicken soup and milk (or broth) over everything.
6. Cover and cook on Low for 5–6 hours or High for 2.5–3 hours.
7. Shred chicken in the crockpot and stir well to combine.
8. Garnish with parsley or chives and serve hot.
Notes
Use chicken thighs for richer flavor.
Try with cream of mushroom or celery for variation.
Add frozen peas or spinach near the end for color and nutrients.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: lazy day creamy ranch chicken, dump and go ranch chicken, slow cooker creamy chicken
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, though you’ll want to lengthen cooking time and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (75 °C).
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You could use Greek yogurt or a soft cheese alternative, though texture and taste may shift slightly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Possibly — check that your ranch seasoning mix and cream soup are gluten-free. Many store-bought versions contain thickeners that have gluten.
How do I store leftovers?
Let cool, then store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3‑4 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes — freeze before shredding. Thaw, reheat gently, then shred and stir to get it creamy again.
Conclusion
When you want comfort without fuss, this Lazy Day Creamy Ranch Chicken (Dump & Go!) fits the bill. Just like Dump & Go Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes, this dish brings flavor, ease, and satisfaction to the table. With pantry ingredients and zero prep, it’s a weeknight favorite you’ll make again and again.