Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken
A Comfort Food Classic with Bacon, Cream Cheese & Pasta
If you’re in search of a creamy, cheesy, and flavor-loaded chicken dish that practically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken is your perfect weeknight dinner hero. Juicy chicken breasts are slow-cooked in a luscious blend of cream cheese, ranch seasoning, bacon, and parmesan, then tossed with pasta for a dish that satisfies every craving.
It’s indulgent. It’s easy. It’s the ultimate comfort food made in your slow cooker.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
-
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
-
1 red bell pepper, diced or sliced
-
1 packet dry ranch seasoning mix
-
1 cup cooked, crumbled bacon
-
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
-
½ cup milk
-
½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
-
12 oz penne pasta (or any pasta of choice)
-
Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or extra parmesan
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Creamy Ranch Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine:
-
8 oz softened cream cheese
-
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
-
1 can cream of chicken soup
-
½ cup milk
-
½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
Whisk until smooth and well combined. This will form your creamy, flavorful base.
Step 2: Add Chicken to the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker in a single layer.
Step 3: Add Sauce, Peppers & Bacon
Pour the ranch cream cheese mixture over the chicken, spreading it evenly to coat.
Sprinkle in:
-
1 diced red bell pepper
-
1 cup crumbled cooked bacon
These will add both crunch and bold flavor to your dish.
Step 4: Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook:
-
On low for 6–8 hours
-
Or on high for 3–4 hours
Chicken should be fully cooked and fork-tender.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir to combine the shredded chicken with the creamy ranch sauce, peppers, and bacon.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken finishes cooking, boil 12 oz of penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 7: Mix Pasta with Chicken Sauce
Add the cooked pasta into the slow cooker and toss until well coated with the creamy ranch chicken mixture.
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to cling to the pasta.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Spoon the creamy ranch chicken pasta into bowls and garnish with:
-
Fresh chopped parsley
-
Extra parmesan (optional)
Serve hot and enjoy this crowd-pleasing comfort dish!
Tips & Variations
-
Cheese Options: Swap parmesan with mozzarella, Colby Jack, or cheddar for a cheesy twist.
-
Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or peas during the last 30 minutes for extra nutrition.
-
Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
-
Low-carb option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
-
Crispier Bacon: Reserve some bacon for garnish to keep it crunchy.
Storage & Reheating
-
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
-
Freezer: Freeze without pasta for best texture (up to 2 months). Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
-
Reheat: Microwave or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken is everything you want in a dinner: creamy, hearty, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors that make everyone ask for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish will never disappoint.
Set it, forget it, shred it, and serve it.
It’s that easy—and that delicious. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!