What is Mississippi Chicken?
Mississippi Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make recipe that brings together tender chicken breasts or thighs, zesty ranch seasoning, tangy pepperoncini peppers, and rich butter to create a savory dish bursting with flavor. Originally inspired by the popular Mississippi Pot Roast, this recipe has become a favorite for families looking for a simple but flavorful meal. The slow-cooked chicken and bold seasonings make this dish a go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons to fall in love with this Mississippi chicken recipe. First, it requires just a few ingredients, making it both budget-friendly and easy to prepare. The tender, flavorful chicken can be shredded and served in various ways—on sandwiches, mashed potatoes, or rice. Plus, the pepperoncini peppers give it a unique tangy twist that differentiates it from other chicken recipes.
The History Behind Mississippi Chicken
The Mississippi chicken recipe is inspired by the famous Mississippi Pot Roast, which became a viral sensation for its simplicity and bold flavors. While the pot roast is typically made with beef, creative home cooks adapted the recipe to include chicken for a lighter, equally delicious option. Today, Mississippi chicken is enjoyed in homes across the country as a comforting, flavorful dish that’s versatile and easy to prepare.
Mississippi Chicken Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Mississippi Chicken
To make this mouth-watering Mississippi chicken recipe, you’ll need the following simple ingredients
- Chicken breasts or thighs: You may utilize boneless, skinless chicken breasts or legs, whichever you want. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts offer a leaner option.
- The ranch seasoning mix adds a creamy, tangy flavor to the chicken. You can use a store-bought packet or make your homemade ranch seasoning.
- Pepperoncini peppers: These mild peppers perfectly balance tanginess and spice. Use whole peppers for maximum flavor or sliced for a milder kick.
- Butter: A few tablespoons of butter give the dish a rich, silky texture and enhance the overall flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about this Mississippi chicken recipe is its adaptability. Here are a few substitutions and variations to suit your tastes:
- Using chicken thighs vs. chicken breasts: Thighs are an excellent choice if you prefer more tender, juicy chicken. Chicken breasts are leaner but may require careful cooking to avoid dryness. Both options work well in this recipe.
- Substituting ranch seasoning mix: If you miss ranch seasoned mix, you can make a homemade version using dried herbs like parsley, dill, and onion powder mixed with garlic powder and salt.
- Adjust the spiciness level: Add jalapeños or extra pepperoncini juice for a spicier version. If you like a milder dish, minimize the number of peppers or use a mild alternative like banana peppers.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Cook Mississippi Chicken
How to Cook Mississippi Chicken in the Slow Cooker
Cooking this Mississippi chicken recipe in the slow cooker is incredibly easy and yields tender, flavorful chicken. Follow these steps:
- Step 1: Prepare the chicken
- Start by placing your chicken breasts or thighs at the slow cooker’s bottom. Make sure the pieces are spread out evenly for even cooking.
- Step 2: Add ingredients
- Spread the ranch seasoning mixture equally over the chicken. Add the pepperoncini peppers, including some pepper juice, for extra flavor. Finally, place slices of butter on top of everything.
- Step 3
- Stir the slow cooker and simmer on low for 6-7 hours or higher for three to four hours. When finished, the chicken should be succulent and easy to shred with a fork.
- Step 4: Shred the chicken and serve
- When the chicken has cooked, chop it right in the slow cooker with two forks. Mix everything, allowing the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or in sandwiches.
How to Make Mississippi Chicken in the Instant Pot
You can use an Instant Pot for a quicker version of this Mississippi chicken recipe. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the Instant Pot. Add the ranch seasoning, pepperoncini peppers, and butter on top.
- Set the cooking time: Cover the Instant Pot and set the pressure to cook high for 10 minutes if using chicken breasts or 12 minutes for thighs. If the chicken is frozen, increase the time by 5 minutes.
- Natural release: After the cooking time is complete, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before doing a quick release to remove any remaining pressure.
- Shred and serve: Open the Instant Pot, shred the chicken with forks, and stir everything together. Serve the chicken as desired.
Mississippi Chicken Pro Tips
When preparing your Mississippi chicken recipe, a few helpful tips can elevate the flavors and texture, ensuring you get the perfect dish every time.
How to Ensure Your Chicken Stays Juicy
The key to juicy chicken in a Mississippi chicken recipe lies in the cooking method and timing. To keep the chicken from drying out:
- Use chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are naturally more tender than breasts due to larger fat content.
- Cook on low heat: Set the temperature to low for longer. This allows the chicken to retain moisture and tenderize without becoming dry.
- Don’t overcook: Monitor the cooking time using a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Overcooking can cause the chicken to lose its tenderness. Aim for the recommended times (6-7 hours on low for a slow cooker or 10-12 minutes for an Instant Pot).
How to Adjust the Spiciness to Your Taste
The pepperoncini peppers in the Mississippi chicken recipe provide a mild kick. Still, you can easily adjust the spiciness based on your preference:
- Add more pepperoncini peppers: Add extra whole peppers or more pepper juice for extra tang and heat.
- Include jalapeños: If you enjoy a spicier dish, add a few slices of jalapeño or another hot pepper for a fiery twist.
- Reduce peppers for a milder version: If you’re serving this to kids or those with milder taste preferences, reduce the number of pepperoncini peppers or opt for a milder variety like banana peppers.
Best Tools for Making Mississippi Chicken
To make the most of your Mississippi chicken recipe, having the right tools on hand will make preparation easier and cooking more efficient:
- Slow cooker: This is the classic method for making Mississippi chicken, offering a hands-off cooking experience while keeping the chicken tender and flavorful.
- Instant Pot: For a quicker version, the Instant Pot is a great alternative that delivers the same delicious results in less time.
- Meat shredder: After the chicken is cooked, a meat shredder (or two forks) makes it easy to pull the chicken apart, creating perfect shredded pieces for serving on sandwiches or over rice.
Delicious Variations of Mississippi Chicken
There are many ways to customize your Mississippi chicken recipe to suit different tastes or occasions. Here are two popular variations to try.
Mississippi Chicken with Jalapeños for Extra Heat
If you love spicy food, adding jalapeños to your Mississippi chicken recipe will give the dish an extra kick. Slice up a few fresh or pickled jalapeños and toss them in with the other ingredients. This adds a bright, fiery flavor to complement the tanginess of the pepperoncini peppers.
Oven-Baked Mississippi Chicken for a Crispier Texture
Try baking the Mississippi chicken recipe in the oven for a variation that delivers a crispier texture. You might also love our Fried Chicken Tenders if you enjoy crispy chicken. After seasoning the chicken, put it on an ovenproof plate and bake for 30-35 minutes until the temperature inside hits 165°F (74°C). This method gives the chicken a slight crunch while maintaining its juicy interior.
How to Serve Mississippi Chicken
Once your Mississippi chicken recipe is ready, there are endless serving options to suit your tastes or event.
Best Side Dishes for Mississippi Chicken
The rich, flavorful chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few classic options:
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes perfectly complement Mississippi chicken’s tangy, savory flavors.
- Rice: Serve the shredded chicken over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Sandwiches: For a more casual option, serve the shredded chicken on toasted buns with a side of coleslaw or pickles.
How to Serve Mississippi Chicken for Different Occasions
This versatile Mississippi chicken recipe can be served in various ways depending on the occasion:
- Weeknight dinners: Serve the chicken over mashed potatoes or rice for a quick, comforting meal.
- Casual gatherings: Shred the chicken and serve it on buns for a make-your-own sandwich bar, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
- Meal prep: Store leftovers in individual containers with sides like veggies or rice for easy, flavorful meals throughout the week.
How to Store and Reheat Mississippi Chicken
Best Ways to Store Leftovers
When you’ve finished cooking your Mississippi chicken recipe, you might have leftovers you’ll want to enjoy later. Placing leftover chicken in an airtight container is the best way to store leftover chicken. Store it in the refrigerator, which lasts up to 3-4 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled down to room temperature before refrigerating, as this prevents condensation inside the container and keeps the texture intact.
Reheating Instructions for the Perfect Texture
To reheat your Mississippi chicken recipe and keep the flavor and texture just right, follow these simple steps:
- Stovetop: Heat the chicken in a pan on medium heat, adding a little chicken broth to prevent it from drying. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through.
- Microwave: put the chicken in a microwave-safe container, protect it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second increments until hot.
- Oven: Prepare the oven temperature to 350° Fahrenheit (175° Celsius). Put the chicken in a sealed safe for the oven dish with a bit of broth and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Can You Freeze Mississippi Chicken?
Yes! You can freeze your Mississippi chicken recipe to enjoy at a later date. To freeze it properly, place the shredded chicken in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze it in the fridge overnight until heated, as instructed above.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi Chicken
What are Pepperoncini Peppers, and Where Can I Find Them?
Pepperoncini peppers are mild, tangy peppers commonly used in Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. In the Mississippi chicken recipe, they provide a unique flavor with just a hint of heat. These peppers can be found in jars, generally in the dill section of your local supermarket store. If you’re unable to find pepperoncini peppers, banana peppers can be a great substitute, offering a similar taste and texture.
How Spicy is Mississippi Chicken?
The Mississippi chicken recipe strikes a balance between flavorful and mildly spicy. The pepperoncini peppers give the dish a slight kick without overwhelming the palate. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the number of peppers or remove them entirely. On the flip side, for those who enjoy more heat, you can add extra peppers or even a bit of pepper juice for an extra zing.
Conclusion: Why Mississippi Chicken Should Be Your Next Go-To Recipe
Mississippi Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a delicious, simple, and comforting dish that suits any occasion. Whether preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting friends and family, this Mississippi chicken recipe is bound to impress. Its rich flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility make it a perfect go-to option when craving something hearty and satisfying. It’s a slow-cooker recipe, so it’s convenient and hassle-free.
Final Thoughts on This Comfort Food Classic
The Mississippi chicken recipe is a comforting classic that hits all the right notes—savory, tangy, and melt-in-your-mouth tender. What sets it apart is how easy it is to customize. Not only does it satisfy your cravings, but it also gives you a warm, homey feeling with every bite.
Share and Enjoy Your Mississippi Chicken Experience
Now that you’ve mastered the Mississippi chicken recipe, it’s time to share it with your loved ones! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite.
Mississippi Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs 900g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 packet 1 oz ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet 1 oz au jus gravy mix
- ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter
- 6-8 whole pepperoncini peppers plus 2 tbsp of juice from the jar
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker in an even layer.
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix and the au jus gravy mix evenly over the chicken.
- Add butter and pepperoncini: Place the butter (cut into small chunks) on top of the chicken. Add the pepperoncini peppers and pour 2 tablespoons of pepperoncini juice over everything.
- Cook: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the chicken: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded chicken into the juices to coat.
- Serve: Serve hot with your choice of sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or on sandwich rolls. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- Prep the chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker in an even layer.
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix and the au jus gravy mix evenly over the chicken.
- Add butter and pepperoncini: Place the butter (cut into small chunks) on top of the chicken. Add the pepperoncini peppers and pour 2 tablespoons of pepperoncini juice over everything.
- Cook: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the chicken: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded chicken into the juices to coat.
- Serve: Serve hot with your choice of sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or on sandwich rolls. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.