There’s something magical about 3 Packet Crockpot Chicken – a simple yet flavorful recipe that brings together the ease of slow cooking with the comforting taste of homestyle chicken and gravy. Known by many as three packet crockpot chicken or 3 envelope chicken crockpot recipe, this dish is a weeknight lifesaver. With just three seasoning packets and a few pantry staples, you can create a savory meal that tastes like it simmered all day with grandma’s love.
Whether you call it crockpot chicken with 3 seasoning packets, slow cooker 3 packet chicken recipe, or the ever-popular dump-and-go 3 packet chicken, this is one of those rare dishes that is both budget-friendly and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy families, meal preppers, and anyone who wants a cozy dinner without the fuss.
- Dump-and-Go Simplicity: No browning, no sautéing—just layer, whisk, and let the crockpot do its work.
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor: The blend of ranch, Italian, and chicken gravy packets creates a creamy, herby sauce.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this dish—it’s comfort food at its best.
- Budget-Smart: Chicken breasts, seasoning packets, and broth are inexpensive staples.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
- Meal Prep Ready: Shreds beautifully for leftovers or next-day lunches.
- Minimal Cleanup: One pot, less stress, and easy storage.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything to make the perfect 3 Packet Crockpot Chicken:
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts – You can also use thighs for juicier meat.
- 1 ounce packet ranch seasoning powder – Adds herby creaminess. Try homemade ranch mix for less sodium.
- 0.6 ounce packet Italian dressing powder – Brightens the dish with tangy herbs. Substitute with Italian herb seasoning if needed.
- 0.8 ounce packet chicken gravy powder – Provides depth and savory richness. Mushroom gravy powder also works well.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – Balances saltiness and keeps chicken moist.
- Fresh parsley, chopped – For garnish and freshness.
- Mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles – The perfect base to soak up the sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Crockpot
Coat a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray or line with a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken
Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the crockpot. This ensures even cooking.
Step 3: Mix the Packets
In a large measuring cup, whisk together ranch seasoning, Italian dressing mix, chicken gravy packet, and chicken broth until smooth.
Step 4: Pour and Cover
Pour the mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated. Cover with the lid.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours (or HIGH for 2–3 hours). The chicken should reach an internal temp of 165°F and shred easily.
Step 6: Shred and Serve
Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Stir to mix with the gravy. Serve over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
How do you keep chicken moist in the crockpot?
Using low heat and enough liquid (like broth) prevents dryness. Cooking longer on LOW gives juicier results.
Can you use frozen chicken?
Yes, but extend cook time by 1–2 hours. For food safety, always check internal temperature.
What sides go best with 3 Packet Crockpot Chicken?
Mashed potatoes are classic, but egg noodles, rice, or roasted vegetables also work beautifully.
Best Ways to Serve
- Classic: Over mashed potatoes with green beans.
- Southern Style: With buttermilk biscuits and collard greens.
- Low-Carb: Over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Open-Face Sandwich: Pile shredded chicken on toasted bread, top with gravy.
👉 Related recipes on homemadehaven.net:
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fiber: 0.5g
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm on stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth for best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make 3 Packet Crockpot Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before, refrigerate, then cook the next day.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not by default—most seasoning packets contain gluten. Look for certified gluten-free mixes or make your own.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs are more forgiving and stay extra juicy.
Does this work in the Instant Pot?
Yes—cook on high pressure for 12 minutes with a natural release.
Recipe Variations
- Creamy Version: Stir in ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese at the end.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a packet of taco seasoning.
- Lighter Option: Use skinless chicken breasts with reduced-sodium packets.
- Regional Flair: Add Cajun seasoning for a Southern spin, or curry powder for an Indian twist.
Conclusion & Call to Action
3 Packet Crockpot Chicken proves that dinner doesn’t need to be complicated to be satisfying. With minimal prep and big flavor, it’s the perfect recipe for busy nights, meal prepping, or family gatherings. Try it once, and it will quickly earn a spot in your weekly rotation.
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3 Packet Crockpot Chicken – The Ultimate Dump-and-Go Comfort Dinner
Ingredients
▢3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
▢1 ounce packet ranch seasoning powder
▢0.6 ounce packet Italian dressing powder
▢0.8 ounce packet chicken gravy powder
▢1 cup low-sodium chicken broth**
▢chopped fresh parley, for garnish
▢mashed potatoes, for serving
Instructions
Coat a 6-quart crockpot with nonstick spray.
Place the chicken breasts into the bottom of the crockpot in a single layer.
In a large measuring cup with a spouted rim (or mixing bowl), whisk together all the seasoning packets with the chicken broth until dissolved.
Pour the broth mixture over the chicken.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or until the chicken registers 165F and pulls apart easily.
Using two forks, shred the chicken.
Serve over mashed potatoes with some of the gravy and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Notes
*You can absolutely skip the packets and use your own blends. Use about 1 tbsp each of homemade ranch mix, Italian seasoning, and chicken bouillon powder for a cleaner version with the same great flavor.
**Use low-sodium broth. The seasoning packets already pack plenty of salt, so using low-sodium broth helps balance the flavors and keeps the dish from turning out too salty.
Always thaw chicken first. Starting with frozen chicken in a slow cooker can keep it in the “danger zone” temperature range for too long, which isn’t food safe. Thaw your chicken completely before cooking to ensure it heats evenly.