What Is Mississippi Chicken?
Mississippi Chicken is a slow-cooked, flavorful chicken dish that follows the same concept as the well-loved Mississippi Pot Roast. Instead of beef, however, this recipe uses chicken breast or thighs, resulting in a more delicate and tender texture. The combination of ranch seasoning, au jus mix, butter, and tangy peperoncini peppers creates an irresistibly rich and comforting dish with a hint of spice.
The Origins of Mississippi Chicken
This dish originated as a variation of the famous Mississippi Pot Roast, a recipe that became a viral sensation thanks to its simple ingredients and incredible taste. The original pot roast recipe was created by Robin Chapman in the 1990s and gained popularity through word of mouth, online forums, and social media. Over time, home cooks started swapping beef for chicken, giving birth to Mississippi Chicken, a lighter yet equally delicious version of the classic.
Why It’s So Popular: A Comfort Food Staple
Mississippi Chicken is a hit for several reasons:
Minimal Ingredients – Only 5 core ingredients, no complicated shopping lists.
Effortless Cooking – Toss everything in a slow cooker, and let it work its magic.
Versatile & Family-Friendly – Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, in a sandwich, or as a low-carb option.
Rich, Tangy, and Addictive Flavors – The combination of ranch seasoning, buttery gravy, and zesty peppers makes it burst with flavor.
Table of Contents
The Essential Ingredients That Make It Special
Each ingredient in Mississippi Chicken plays a crucial role:
- Chicken Breast or Thighs – The base of the dish; thighs stay juicier, while breasts shred more easily.
- Ranch Dressing Mix – Adds a creamy, herby, and slightly tangy flavor.
- Au Jus Gravy Mix – Provides deep, beefy umami notes and enhances the sauce’s richness.
- Peperoncini Peppers & Juice – A signature ingredient that gives a subtle tanginess and mild heat.
- Butter – Creates a velvety, rich sauce that coats the shredded chicken beautifully.
Mississippi Chicken is all about simplicity with maximum flavor, making it a must-try recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.
How to Make Mississippi Chicken
Making Mississippi Chicken is incredibly simple, thanks to its minimal ingredients and hands-off cooking method. Whether you’re using a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven, this dish requires little effort while delivering maximum flavor.
Traditional Slow Cooker Method
The slow cooker is the most popular way to prepare Mississippi Chicken, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken juicy and tender.
Ingredients:
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 packet ranch dressing mix
1 packet au jus gravy mix
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
5-6 whole peperoncini peppers
¼ cup peperoncini juice (optional, for extra tang)
Instructions:
- Layer the Chicken – Place the chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Add Seasonings – Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix and au jus gravy mix evenly over the chicken.
- Top with Butter & Peppers – Cut the butter into chunks and place it on top of the chicken. Add the peperoncini peppers and their juice.
- Cook Low & Slow – Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.
- Shred & Serve – Use two forks to shred the chicken, mix everything together, and serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or in sandwiches.
Instant Pot and Oven Variations
Want to speed things up? Try these alternative cooking methods.
Instant Pot Mississippi Chicken
- Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot.
- Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes (for fresh chicken) or 12-14 minutes (for frozen chicken).
- Quick-release the pressure, shred the chicken, and mix well before serving.
Oven-Baked Mississippi Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken in a baking dish and top with ranch mix, au jus, butter, and peppers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Shred, mix, and serve.
Key Tips for the Best Flavor and Texture
Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness – They stay more tender than chicken breasts.
Don’t Skip the Peperoncinis – They add a unique tang that balances the richness of the butter.
Control the Salt – If using salted butter, consider reducing the amount of seasoning.
Shred and Let It Sit – Letting the shredded chicken sit in its juices for 10 minutes deepens the flavors.
Now that you know how to make Mississippi Chicken, let’s explore the key ingredients and their best substitutes.
Ingredients Breakdown and Substitutes
Each ingredient in Mississippi Chicken plays a crucial role in achieving its bold, savory flavor. However, if you need to make adjustments, there are plenty of great substitutes that maintain the dish’s integrity.
Why Ranch Dressing Mix Is Essential
Ranch seasoning is responsible for the herby, slightly tangy base of the dish. It adds a perfect blend of garlic, onion, dill, and buttermilk flavors.
Best Substitutes for Ranch Mix:
- Homemade Ranch Mix – Mix 1 tbsp dried parsley, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, ½ tsp dill, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp pepper.
- French Onion Soup Mix – Adds a more onion-forward flavor but works in a pinch.
The Role of Au Jus Gravy Mix and Its Alternatives
Au jus mix provides rich, beefy umami notes that balance the dish’s overall taste.
Best Substitutes for Au Jus Mix:
- Brown Gravy Mix – Similar consistency but slightly thicker.
- Beef Bouillon + Cornstarch – Dissolve 1 beef bouillon cube in ½ cup hot water and add 1 tsp cornstarch.
👉 Find More Substitutes for Au Jus
Peperoncini Peppers: Adding a Tangy Kick
These mild, slightly sweet peppers give Mississippi Chicken its signature tang and a subtle hint of heat.
Best Alternatives for Peperoncini:
- Banana Peppers – Almost identical in taste but slightly less tangy.
- Jalapeños (Mild Heat Option) – Adds more spice but less tang.
- Dill Pickle Juice – If you don’t have peppers, adding a splash of pickle juice can mimic the acidity.
Final Ingredient Adjustments
Lower the Butter for a Lighter Version – Using just ¼ cup of butter instead of ½ cup still gives richness without excess fat.
Make It Dairy-Free – Swap out butter for vegan butter or olive oil.
Add More Spice – Mix in red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you love heat.
Now that we’ve broken down the key ingredients and best swaps, let’s move on to creative variations of Mississippi Chicken in the next section! Stay tuned.
Mississippi Chicken Recipe Variations
One of the best things about Mississippi Chicken is its versatility. While the classic version is already packed with flavor, there are plenty of ways to customize the recipe to suit your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a creamier texture, a low-carb option, or an extra spicy kick, these variations will take your dish to the next level.
Mississippi Chicken with Cream Cheese
Want a richer, creamier version of Mississippi Chicken? Adding cream cheese gives the dish a velvety texture, making it perfect for serving over pasta or stuffing into sandwiches.
How to Make It:
- Follow the classic slow cooker recipe, but add one block (8 oz) of cream cheese on top of the chicken before cooking.
- Once done, stir the melted cream cheese into the shredded chicken for an extra creamy sauce.
- Serve with toasted bread, pasta, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Mississippi Chicken
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, Mississippi Chicken is already a great option, but you can make a few tweaks to make it even better.
Keto-Friendly Adjustments:
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for higher fat content.
Reduce the butter to ¼ cup to lower calories without losing richness.
Skip the au jus mix and use beef broth with a dash of garlic powder instead.
Serve with cauliflower rice, zoodles, or roasted veggies instead of potatoes or bread.
This version keeps all the bold flavors while ensuring it fits within your low-carb lifestyle.
Spicy Mississippi Chicken: Adding Extra Heat
Love a spicier kick? A few simple tweaks can turn Mississippi Chicken into a fiery, flavor-packed dish.
How to Spice It Up:
Use hot banana peppers or jalapeños instead of peperoncini.
Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the slow cooker.
Mix in a dash of hot sauce before serving for an extra punch.
Serve with spicy mayo or chipotle ranch for a creamy heat boost.
This version is perfect for spice lovers and pairs beautifully with cooling sides like coleslaw or ranch-dressed salads.
Looking for more delicious chicken recipes? Check out this Easiest and Healthiest Ways to Cook Chicken for more inspiration!
Now that we’ve explored fun variations of Mississippi Chicken, let’s talk about the best side dishes to serve with it!
Best Side Dishes for Mississippi Chicken
Mississippi Chicken is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right side dish can elevate the meal even further. Whether you prefer comfort food classics or lighter, healthier options, here are the best sides to complement the dish.
Serving Over Mashed Potatoes or Rice
One of the most popular ways to enjoy Mississippi Chicken is by serving it over a starchy, comforting base.
Mashed Potatoes – The creamy texture soaks up the rich sauce beautifully.
White or Brown Rice – A great neutral option that lets the flavors shine.
Cauliflower Rice – Perfect for a low-carb alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Each of these options absorbs the savory juices, making every bite even more satisfying.
Pairing with Roasted Vegetables or Salads
For a healthier, lighter meal, roasted veggies or a fresh salad add a refreshing contrast to the dish’s richness.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Their slightly bitter, crispy texture pairs well with the buttery sauce.
Honey-Glazed Carrots – A hint of sweetness balances the tangy and salty flavors.
Crisp Green Salad with Ranch Dressing – Complements the ranch seasoning in the chicken.
These options add a nutritional boost without compromising on flavor!
Bread Options: Sandwiches, Sliders, or Wraps
Mississippi Chicken makes an amazing filling for sandwiches and wraps, turning it into a hearty, satisfying meal.
Mississippi Chicken Sandwich – Pile the shredded chicken onto a toasted bun with melted cheese.
Hawaiian Rolls Sliders – The slight sweetness of Hawaiian rolls perfectly balances the savory chicken.
Low-Carb Lettuce Wraps – A fresh, crunchy alternative that keeps things light.
No matter how you choose to serve it, Mississippi Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of sides.
Want more easy dinner ideas? Check out these Easy Chicken Recipes for Dinner for more inspiration!
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even though Mississippi Chicken is an easy, foolproof recipe, a few mistakes can affect its flavor and texture. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to fix them so you get the best results every time.
Overcooking or Undercooking the Chicken
One of the biggest mistakes is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough.
Solution: Always cook Mississippi Chicken on low heat for 6-7 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours in the slow cooker. If using an Instant Pot, set the timer for 10-12 minutes with a quick pressure release.
On the other hand, undercooking can leave the chicken unsafe to eat. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
Using the Wrong Cut of Chicken
While chicken breasts are a popular choice, they can dry out if overcooked.
Solution: For juicier results, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead. They have more fat, which keeps them moist and flavorful.
If you prefer using chicken breasts, consider adding extra butter or cream cheese to keep them tender.
Adjusting Seasonings for the Perfect Balance
Some people find Mississippi Chicken too salty or too tangy depending on their preferences.
Solution: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness. If the dish is too tangy, reduce the amount of peperoncini juice or replace it with a splash of chicken broth.
Bonus Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of warm water or broth to thin it out.
By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll always end up with perfectly cooked, flavorful Mississippi Chicken! Now, let’s answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this dish.
FAQs
Got questions about Mississippi Chicken? You’re not alone! Here are some common questions and their expert answers to help you make this dish even better.
What does Mississippi Chicken taste like?
Mississippi Chicken has a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor. The ranch mix adds a creamy, herby taste, while the au jus brings deep, savory notes. The peperoncini peppers provide a mild, zesty kick, making the dish bold yet balanced.
The butter ties everything together, creating a silky sauce that coats the shredded chicken beautifully. If you love comfort food with a little zing, this dish is perfect for you!
What is a substitute for au jus in Mississippi Chicken?
If you don’t have au jus gravy mix, don’t worry! There are several easy substitutes that work just as well.
Beef Bouillon + Cornstarch – Dissolve 1 beef bouillon cube in ½ cup hot water and add 1 teaspoon cornstarch to thicken it.
Brown Gravy Mix – Similar flavor but slightly thicker; use 1 tablespoon instead of au jus mix.
Beef Broth with Worcestershire Sauce – Adds a deep, umami taste without the need for packaged mixes.
For more details on substitutes, check out this guide on au jus alternatives.
Can you put frozen chicken in the crockpot?
While you can cook frozen chicken in a slow cooker, it’s not recommended because it takes longer to reach a safe temperature, increasing the risk of bacteria growth.
Solution: If using frozen chicken, thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking. If you’re in a hurry, use an Instant Pot, which safely cooks frozen chicken in about 12-14 minutes under high pressure.
Which chicken cut is the tastiest for this recipe?
For maximum flavor and tenderness, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the best choice. They have more fat, which keeps them juicy and prevents drying out.
However, chicken breasts work well too, especially if you prefer leaner meat. Just make sure to add extra butter or cook on low heat to keep them moist.
Final Thoughts
Mississippi Chicken is the perfect combination of ease, flavor, and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients—chicken, ranch seasoning, au jus mix, butter, and peperoncini peppers—this dish delivers rich, tangy, and savory goodness with minimal effort. Whether you cook it in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven, the result is always tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.
One of the best things about Mississippi Chicken is how customizable it is. You can make it creamy with cream cheese, spicy with jalapeños, or keto-friendly by skipping the gravy mix. Plus, it pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted veggies, or even inside sandwiches and sliders. The possibilities are endless!
If you’re looking for a simple, family-friendly meal that requires little prep and delivers big on taste, Mississippi Chicken is a must-try. It’s comfort food at its finest—bold, satisfying, and effortlessly delicious.
Print
Mississippi Chicken: The Best Slow Cooker Recipe for a Flavorful Meal
- Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
This Mississippi Chicken is a simple and incredibly flavorful slow cooker meal. Made with tender shredded chicken, ranch seasoning, zesty pepperoncini, and butter, this dish is rich, juicy, and perfect for serving over rice, mashed potatoes, or in sandwiches. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is a must-try for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 6 boneless chicken thighs)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet (1 oz) au jus gravy mix (or brown gravy mix)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), cut into pieces
- ½ cup pepperoncini peppers, whole or sliced (plus ¼ cup juice)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
Optional Additions:
- ½ cup chicken broth (for extra moisture)
- 4 oz cream cheese (for a creamier version)
Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add Seasonings & Ingredients:
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix and au jus gravy mix over the chicken.
- Place slices of butter evenly on top of the chicken.
- Add the pepperoncini peppers and pepperoncini juice.
- (Optional) Pour in chicken broth for extra juiciness.
Cook the Chicken:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.
Shred & Serve:
- Shred the chicken using two forks and mix well with the sauce.
- (Optional) Stir in cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or in sandwiches.
Notes
- Chicken Options: Thighs will be even juicier than breasts.
- Less Spicy Version: Reduce the amount of pepperoncini and juice.
- Make It Creamy: Add cream cheese at the end and mix until melted.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Mississippi chicken, slow cooker chicken, shredded chicken, crockpot chicken, easy chicken dinner, ranch chicken, pepperoncini chicken