Are you looking for a comforting and delicious meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than our Crockpot Chicken Bacon Ranch Spaghetti recipe! This easy-to-make dish combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy Alfredo sauce, and flavorful ranch seasoning for a meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Plus, it’s made entirely in the slow cooker, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe, including variations and tips for keto and low-carb versions.
Ingredients:
- Meat:
- 8 slices Bacon, cooked
- 1 lb Chicken breast
- Produce:
- 1 tbsp Garlic
- 1 Parsley, Dried
- Condiments:
- 2 15 oz jars Alfredo sauce
- Pasta & Grains:
- 1 lb Spaghetti
- Baking & Spices:
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Ranch seasoning
- Dairy:
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients: Cook the bacon until crispy, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Cut the chicken breast into small cubes or strips.
- Combine Ingredients: In the crockpot, add the cooked bacon, chicken breast, minced garlic, dried parsley, Alfredo sauce, salt, and ranch seasoning. Stir well to combine.
- Cook Spaghetti: Break the spaghetti noodles in half and add them to the crockpot, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce mixture.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the spaghetti is tender.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top of the spaghetti during the last 30 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt and become gooey.
- Serve: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, serve the Crockpot Chicken Bacon Ranch Spaghetti hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Bacon Substitutes: If you prefer, you can use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon as a substitute for traditional bacon in this recipe.
- Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for added flavor and moisture.
- Homemade Alfredo Sauce: While jarred Alfredo sauce is convenient, you can make your own creamy Alfredo sauce at home using butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of ranch seasoning and add red pepper flakes for a spicier kick if desired.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Use Zoodles: Replace the spaghetti noodles with spiralized zucchini (zoodles) or spaghetti squash to make it keto-friendly and low in carbs.
- Creamy Sauce: Opt for a keto-friendly Alfredo sauce or make your own using ingredients such as cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Low-Carb Version:
- Shirataki Noodles: Substitute traditional spaghetti with shirataki noodles, which are very low in carbs and calories, making them a great option for low-carb diets.
- Almond Flour: Thicken the sauce with almond flour instead of using traditional flour to reduce the carb content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe? A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time. Simply add it to the crockpot along with the other ingredients and cook until heated through.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
With its irresistible combination of chicken, bacon, ranch seasoning, and creamy Alfredo sauce, our Crockpot Chicken Bacon Ranch Spaghetti is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering with friends and family, this easy and flavorful dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Plus, with options for keto and low-carb variations, it’s a versatile recipe that can accommodate different dietary preferences. Give it a try and enjoy the deliciousness of comfort food made simple!
