Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Ranch Chicken

This Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Ranch Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch-seasoned sauce, and melted cheddar cheese, this recipe brings together all the best flavors in one easy, set-it-and-forget-it meal. It’s a hit with the whole family and pairs well with your favorite sides.

Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Ranch Chicken

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

6 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped

1 packet of ranch dressing mix (approximately 1 ounce)

8 ounces of cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup of water

1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Place the diced chicken into the slow cooker.

In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and water until smooth and well-blended.

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.

Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top of the chicken.

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the chicken and allow it to melt.

Gently stir the ingredients together, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.

Notes:

Chicken Options: You can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier result. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Crisp Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, cook it separately and sprinkle it over the chicken just before serving.

Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to make blending easier and to achieve a smooth sauce.

Ranch Dressing Mix: If you prefer homemade, you can use a homemade ranch seasoning blend instead of a store-bought packet.

Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of water or add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with water during the last hour of cooking.

Low Sodium Option: Use low-sodium bacon, cream cheese, and ranch mix if you’re watching your sodium intake.

Extra Veggies: Add vegetables like chopped broccoli or spinach in the last hour of cooking for a more balanced meal.

Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce.

Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezing: This dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs.

They will add a bit more flavor and juiciness to the dish.

Adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may cook slightly differently.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture before adding it to the slow cooker for a spicy kick.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative, but it will change the flavor and texture slightly.

Choose plain Greek yogurt to avoid altering the flavor too much.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach in the last hour of cooking to make the meal more balanced.

How can I make this recipe low-carb?

Use low-carb ranch seasoning and omit the cheese, or use a low-carb cheese substitute.

You can also reduce the amount of cream cheese and add more vegetables.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and cream cheese mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

Add it to the slow cooker and cook on the day of serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What should I serve with this dish?

Serve it over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce.

It also pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables.

How do I adjust the recipe for a larger or smaller group?

To adjust for a different number of servings, scale the ingredients proportionally.

For example, double the ingredients for 12 servings or halve them for 3 servings.

Adjust cooking times as needed based on the amount of chicken.