Ever wondered how to transform a few simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that’ll have your family asking for seconds? Look no further than Mississippi Chicken! This Southern-inspired slow cooker recipe combines tangy pepperoncini peppers, rich butter, and savory ranch seasoning to create tender, flavorful chicken that practically falls apart with the touch of a fork. I’ve been making this crowd-pleaser for years, and trust me, it’s a game-changer for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving it over mashed potatoes, tucking it into sandwiches, or piling it on top of rice, Mississippi Chicken delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Ready to discover your new favorite comfort food?
Ingredients for Mississippi Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix (1 oz)
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix (1 oz)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (1/2 stick)
- 8-10 pepperoncini peppers, plus 1/4 cup of the pepper juice from the jar
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Mississippi Chicken
- Place chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix and au jus gravy mix evenly over the chicken.
- Place the butter on top of the seasoned chicken.
- Add the pepperoncini peppers and pour in the pepper juice.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
- Once done, shred the chicken using two forks while it’s still in the slow cooker, mixing it with the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper if needed, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Mississippi Chicken is incredibly versatile! Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles to soak up all that delicious sauce. It makes an amazing sandwich on toasted brioche buns with melted provolone cheese and a little extra pepperoncini for kick. For a lighter option, try it over steamed rice or cauliflower rice with a side of roasted vegetables. You can even use it as a filling for tacos or quesadillas with a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese!
Conclusion
Mississippi Chicken proves that mouthwatering, soul-satisfying meals don’t require complicated techniques or fancy ingredients. With just a handful of items and your trusty slow cooker, you’ll have a versatile dish that’s perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to casual entertaining. The combination of tangy, savory, and buttery flavors creates a crave-worthy meal that’ll quickly become a regular in your recipe rotation. Give it a try – your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe and often turn out even more tender and flavorful.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild tang from the pepperoncini peppers but isn’t particularly spicy. For more heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Can I make Mississippi Chicken in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the pressure cook function for about 12 minutes with a natural release for similar results in much less time.
How long do leftovers keep?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, leftovers will stay good for 3-4 days and often taste even better the next day!
Can I freeze Mississippi Chicken?
Definitely! Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I substitute for pepperoncini peppers?
If you can’t find pepperoncinis, banana peppers make a good substitute, or you could use a combination of pickle juice and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes