If you’re looking for an easy, comforting, and absolutely delicious meal, this Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. With tender chicken, creamy ranch-flavored sauce, and pasta cooked to perfection, it’s a dish that’s bound to become a family favorite. The best part? The slow cooker does most of the work for you! Just toss in your ingredients, set it, and come back to a flavorful, satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese (cubed)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1/4 cup milk (optional for thinning the sauce)
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped parsley or chives
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Crumbled bacon
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix the ranch seasoning packet, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken breasts and place them in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Cream Cheese
- Pour the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Add the cubed cream cheese on top of the chicken.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Once the chicken is done cooking, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it with the creamy ranch sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
- About 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 6: Combine and Stir
- Stir the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese into the slow cooker until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and toss to combine everything.
- If the sauce is too thick, stir in up to 1/4 cup of milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve
- Spoon the creamy ranch chicken pasta onto plates or bowls.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, extra shredded cheese, or crumbled bacon for added flavor.
- Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, ranchy goodness!
Cook Notes
- Adjusting the Sauce: If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add more chicken broth or milk as needed.
- Make it Cheesy: For extra cheesy goodness, you can increase the amount of cheddar cheese or even add mozzarella for a gooey finish.
- Chicken Variations: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.
Variations
- Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the slow cooker at the end for a smoky, savory twist.
- Spicy Ranch Chicken Pasta: For a bit of heat, mix in some red pepper flakes or use a spicy ranch seasoning mix.
- Keto Version: Skip the pasta and serve the creamy ranch chicken over cauliflower rice or zoodles for a low-carb option. Ensure that the ranch seasoning is keto-friendly and use full-fat cream cheese.
- Low-Carb Version: Similar to the keto version, use low-carb pasta or zucchini noodles in place of traditional pasta to keep the carb count low.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, keep in mind that frozen chicken will take a bit longer to cook in the slow cooker, so plan for extra time if using frozen chicken.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is great for meal prepping! You can make the creamy ranch chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! Allow the creamy ranch chicken pasta to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk to refresh the sauce.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne works well for this recipe, but you can also use rotini, bowtie, or any other pasta you like. Just be sure to cook it al dente before adding it to the slow cooker.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can! Adding steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach is a great way to incorporate some veggies into this meal. Just stir them in during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
This Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food meal. The slow cooker does all the hard work, leaving you with tender, flavorful chicken coated in a rich, creamy ranch sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, with easy keto and low-carb modifications, it’s versatile enough to suit various dietary needs. So, grab your ingredients, toss them in the slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal!
