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Easy Cafe Rio Shredded Chicken Copycat recipe photo

Cafe Rio Shredded Chicken Copycat

Tender shredded chicken simmered in zesty Italian dressing and ranch for an easy taco- or salad-style filling.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 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 to taste, for garnish or mixing
  • Roma tomatoes chopped, for serving
  • olives for serving
  • fresh lettuce for serving
  • cilantro ranch dressing for serving

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • tongs or fork
  • Mixing Spoon

Method
 

  1. Spray the inside of a slow cooker with cooking spray.
  2. 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.
  3. Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker and turn to coat them in the seasoned liquid.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily with a fork.
  5. Remove the chicken to a cutting board or bowl and shred it with two forks or tongs.
  6. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the cooking juices and seasonings.
  7. Serve topped with chopped Roma tomatoes, olives, minced cilantro, fresh lettuce, and cilantro ranch dressing as desired.

Notes

  • Use boneless skinless chicken breasts for even cooking.
  • Cook on low for more tender, shreddable chicken.
  • Adjust chili powder and cumin to taste.
  • Reserve some cooking juices to keep the chicken moist.