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Cafe Rio Shredded Chicken Copycat

Tender, flavorful shredded chicken made in the slow cooker with zesty Italian dressing and ranch seasoning.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time5 hours
Total Time5 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds chicken breasts about 2 chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup zesty Italian dressing
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1/2 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 package dry ranch dressing mix
  • 1/2 cup water
  • minced cilantro
  • Roma tomatoes, chopped
  • olives
  • fresh lettuce
  • cilantro ranch dressing

Instructions

  • Spray the inside of a slow cooker with cooking spray.
  • In the slow cooker, combine the zesty Italian dressing, minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, dry ranch dressing mix, and water; stir until evenly mixed.
  • Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker and turn to coat them in the sauce.
  • Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily.
  • Remove the chicken and shred with two forks or tongs, then return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the cooking juices.
  • Serve topped with chopped Roma tomatoes, minced cilantro, olives, fresh lettuce, and drizzle with cilantro ranch dressing as desired.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Tongs or fork
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Notes

  • Spray the slow cooker to prevent sticking.
  • Shred the chicken while hot for easier shredding.
  • Adjust chili powder to taste for more or less heat.
  • Reserve some cooking liquid to keep the chicken moist.