Mississippi Chicken Recipe (Crockpot, Instant Pot & Oven Options!)

Easy dump-and-go chicken dinner that’s low carb, high protein, and meal prep-friendly!

Today, I will discuss a chicken recipe that originated in the southern U.S. state of Mississippi, named after the place where it was found. Now a world-famous recipe, it has won the hearts of everyone with its preparation process and taste. This Mississippi Chicken recipe is a no-fail, low-effort chicken dinner recipe that is bursting with flavor. Made with juicy chicken breasts, ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, tangy pepperoncini peppers, and butter, this 5-minute prep dump-and-go dinner is a lifesaver for busy families, keto lovers, and meal preppers alike.

This tender shredded chicken is full of savory, buttery goodness and can be baked in the crockpot, Instant Pot, or even the oven. This easy slow cooker chicken recipe is not just comforting and delicious—it’s also low carb, gluten-free, and high protein, making it ideal for those following a keto diet, diabetic meal plan, or simply looking for healthy weeknight dinner ideas. Best of all, it’s budget-friendly and great for feeding a crowd.

All that’s well and good, but are you wondering how to make Mississippi chicken in a crockpot? Your worries are over because today I’m going to teach you everything I learned from my dad. This is one of my favorite Keto-friendly chicken dump meals recipes. In this post, you’ll learn how to make Mississippi Chicken in 3 different ways. Then get ready to learn this dump-and-go chicken dinner tonight. Skip the takeout. Make this once and it’ll become a family favorite for life.

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Related: Instant Pot Pulled Chicken Recipe

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Reasons Why You Should Choose This Mississippi Chicken Recipe

• Easy 5-Minute Prep: Just dump everything into your slow cooker or Instant Pot and let it cook! Perfect for busy moms, working professionals, or beginner home cooks looking for hassle-free meals.
• High Protein, Low Carb Meal: This high-protein chicken dinner supports weight loss, muscle maintenance, and keto lifestyles. With less than 4g net carbs per serving, it’s ideal for low carb meal prep.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on rice, cauliflower mash, low-carb tortillas, sandwich buns, or lettuce wraps — making it a go-to dish for both family dinners and meal prep containers.
• Dump-and-Go Convenience: No sautéing, no mess. Just drop in the ingredients and walk away. It’s one of the best dump and go crockpot meals you’ll ever make — no babysitting needed!
• Family-Friendly Comfort Food: Both kids and adults love the savory, buttery, and tangy flavors. It’s a budget-friendly dinner recipe that feeds the whole family without compromising taste.
• Freezer Friendly & Meal Prep Approved: Make a big batch, freeze extras, and use them throughout the week. Ideal for those searching “what’s a good meal prep chicken recipe” or “freezer crockpot meals.”
• Works in Crockpot, Instant Pot, or Oven: Whether you’re a fan of slow cookers or pressure cookers, this recipe adapts to your favorite method — one of the most versatile shredded chicken recipes online.

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Suggested: High-Protein Salad Bowls

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🛒 Ingredients You Will Need To Make This Mississippi Chicken

Let’s break down everything you need to make the perfect Mississippi Chicken. These staple ingredients are flavorful, easy to source, and ideal for low-carb, high-protein dinners.

🍗 Chicken Breasts or Thighs

Use 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner meal, or switch to thighs for more tenderness and flavor. This is the base of your slow cooker high protein recipe.

🌿 Ranch Seasoning Mix

A packet of ranch seasoning mix gives this recipe its signature tang. Opt for organic or no-MSG versions for a clean-eating twist. You can also make your own ranch mix with dried herbs and spices.

🥄 Au Jus Gravy Mix

This creates the savory depth that Mississippi Chicken is famous for. Use a low-sodium au jus packet for heart-healthier meals without sacrificing flavor.

🌶️ Pepperoncini Peppers

Use 6 to 8 pepperoncini plus 2 tablespoons of juice. They add a mild zing without overwhelming spice.

🧈 Unsalted Butter

One stick (½ cup) of unsalted butter enhances flavor and moisture. For a cleaner fat source, opt for grass-fed or organic butter. For dairy-free, try ghee or vegan substitutes.

🧂 Optional Flavor Boosters

Add-ins like garlic cloves, onion slices, or 2 oz of cream cheese can take your dish to the next level. These are great if you’re turning it into a Mississippi Chicken Casserole or looking for creamy variations.

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Related: Best Instant Pot Recipes For Beginners

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🧑‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions: Mississippi Chicken Recipe

These simple steps make it easy to enjoy a flavorful, juicy, and high-protein low-carb chicken dinner — perfect for keto meal prep and budget-friendly family meals.

🍲 Slow Cooker Method (Crockpot Mississippi Chicken)

For an easy dump dinner, this low carb slow cooker recipe is a must-try. This will be one of the best crockpot shredded chicken recipes you’ve ever seen before.

1. Prep your slow cooker: Lightly spray the base with nonstick spray or line with a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
2. Add 2 lbs of boneless chicken breasts or thighs to the base of the crockpot.
3. Sprinkle 1 packet of ranch seasoning and 1 packet of au jus gravy mix evenly over the chicken.
4. Add 6–8 pepperoncini peppers and 2 tablespoons of their juice.
5. Top with ½ cup (1 stick) of sliced unsalted butter.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until chicken is fork-tender and fully cooked (165°F internal temp).
7. Shred the chicken inside the crockpot using two forks and mix well with the sauce for extra flavor.

⚡ Instant Pot Method (Quick & Easy Mississippi Chicken)

Pressure cooking shredded chicken is also a good option, and if you want to try it, try this Instant Pot Chicken Dump Meal. This will be your family’s next favorite keto Instant Pot dinner.

1. Add chicken to the Instant Pot along with ¼ cup of water or chicken broth (for pressure).
2. Sprinkle ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix directly on top of the chicken.
3. Add pepperoncini peppers, their juice, and top with the sliced butter.
4. Seal the lid and cook on Manual (High Pressure) for 15 minutes.
5. Let pressure naturally release for 5 minutes, then quickly release the rest.
6. Open the lid and shred the chicken using two forks, then stir it into the flavorful juices.

🔥 Oven-Baked Method (Comfort Food Classic)

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place chicken in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Sprinkle with ranch seasoning and au jus mix.
4. Add pepperoncini peppers and their juice on top of the chicken.
5. Distribute sliced butter evenly over everything.
6. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily.
7. Shred the chicken and stir everything together before serving.

For the easiest prep, go with the Crockpot method. If you’re short on time, use the Instant Pot.
Craving oven-roasted comfort food? Choose the oven method! All three give you a juicy, flavor-packed chicken dinner that’s keto-friendly and meal-prep ready.

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Related: Air Fryer Chicken Recipes

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Mississippi Chicken Variations & Recipe Ideas

Explore creative ways to enjoy this viral chicken recipe! These low-carb, high-protein, and budget-friendly variations are ideal for keto, family dinners, and easy meal prep.

🥄 Creamy Mississippi Chicken (Low Carb Comfort)

Add 4 oz of cream cheese during the last hour of cooking for a rich, creamy sauce. This keto-friendly option is perfect with cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles. This is one of my favorite Keto cream cheese chicken dinner recipes.

🌶️ Spicy Mississippi Chicken (High-Protein Kick)

Add jalapeños or cayenne for extra heat. Great for those who like their shredded chicken spicy and satisfying.

🌮 Mississippi Chicken Tacos (Low Carb Wraps)

Serve the shredded chicken in low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps with slaw and avocado. Perfect for lunch or a family taco night.

🥘 Mississippi Chicken Casserole Bake

Mix with green beans and shredded cheese, then bake. This makes a quick keto chicken casserole perfect for busy weeknights and freezer meals.

🥗 Whole30 & Dairy-Free Mississippi Chicken

Swap butter for ghee and use clean spices instead of seasoning packets for a compliant and dairy-free option. Great for paleo and Whole30 diets.

🍚 Mississippi Chicken Meal Prep Bowls

Pair shredded chicken with veggies and cauliflower rice for a balanced low-carb meal prep. Add a drizzle of pepperoncini juice for a flavor boost.

These easy Mississippi Chicken variations help you turn a basic slow cooker meal into multiple healthy, delicious dishes—perfect for meal prep, low-carb living, and comfort food cravings.

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Related: Easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

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🍽️ Delicious Serving Suggestions for Mississippi Chicken

Wondering what to serve with Mississippi Chicken to make it a complete meal? Here are the most-loved ways to enjoy this easy crockpot favorite!

• 🥦 Over Mashed Cauliflower: A keto-friendly side dish that keeps your carbs low and protein high—perfect for weight loss or diabetic-friendly dinners.
  
• 🍚 On Steamed White or Brown Rice: Ideal for those craving healthy comfort food—adds balance and satiety to your meal. Great for families and meal prepping.
  
• 🥬 In Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb, gluten-free dinner, pile the shredded chicken into butter lettuce or romaine cups and top with avocado slices or coleslaw.
  
• 🍞 On Toasted Buns or Sandwich Rolls: Make crowd-pleasing Mississippi Chicken Sandwiches—perfect for easy weeknight meals, game days, or potlucks. Add melted provolone or pepper jack cheese for extra flavor.
  
• 🥗 With Roasted Veggies: Pair with oven-roasted broccoli, carrots, or asparagus for a nutrient-dense, balanced meal loaded with fiber and antioxidants.
  
• 🥔 Over Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing for Southern comfort food lovers. Rich, hearty, and soul-satisfying—great for Sunday dinners and holidays.
  
• 🍝 Over Zoodles or Spaghetti Squash: Keep it keto and paleo compliant by serving your Mississippi Chicken over spiralized zucchini or baked spaghetti squash noodles.
  
• 🥣 In Meal Prep Bowls: Create high-protein meal prep lunches by portioning into containers with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or green beans. Ready for the week!

💡 Tip: This recipe pairs well with keto side dishes or healthy comfort food recipes. Make it your own!

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Suggested: Lemon Pepper Chicken Breasts

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mississippi Chicken low carb and keto-friendly?

Yes, Mississippi Chicken is naturally low carb and keto-friendly. It contains no added sugar or flour, making it perfect for keto meal prep recipes or low-carb high-protein dinners. Just make sure your ranch seasoning and au jus mix are free from hidden starches or sugars.

Can I freeze Mississippi Chicken for later?

This is one of the best chicken freezer meals. Let the chicken cool completely, portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, and store for up to 3 months. Perfect for meal prep for busy weeks, high protein lunches, or family-friendly freezer dinners.

What can I serve with Mississippi Chicken?

This versatile chicken goes well with cauliflower mash (keto), steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, or buttery rice. You can also stuff it into low carb tortillas or meal prep bowls for an easy protein-packed lunch.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs are a great option and often result in juicier shredded chicken. Thighs are higher in fat, which makes them ideal for keto dinner recipes and comfort food meal ideas.

What if I don’t have au jus gravy mix?

You can substitute with a mix of beef bouillon powder + onion powder + garlic powder. It’s a great homemade alternative for budget cooking and clean ingredient swaps—especially for those following a low sodium or gluten-free diet.

Is this recipe good for meal prepping?

Yes! Mississippi Chicken is one of the top high protein meal prep ideas. Store it in individual containers with veggies, cauliflower rice, or salad for a week of healthy packed lunches or macro-balanced dinner prep.

Is Mississippi Chicken spicy?

No, it has a slight tangy kick from the pepperoncini peppers but it’s not hot. You can always add jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to make it spicier. Great for those who love a little heat in their comfort food recipes.

Can I make Mississippi Chicken in the oven?

Yes! Simply place all the ingredients in a covered baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until chicken is cooked through and easy to shred. This is a great alternative if you don’t have a slow cooker or Instant Pot.

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