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An ultra-creamy, comforting, and flavorful recipe that's easy to make in the slow cooker. This mix of tender chicken with ranch seasoning, cream cheese, melted cheddar, and crispy bacon bits makes for a convenient, delicious, and crowd-pleasing meal. Perfect served over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or even tucked into a hot sandwich bun.
Step-by-step recipe
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Season with salt, pepper, and ranch seasoning on both sides.
- Add the cream cheese on top of the chicken.
- Pour the chicken broth around it.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks directly into the pot.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and the cooked, crumbled bacon.
- Stir until the cheese is completely melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with chives if desired.
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Preservation and reheating
In the refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. In the freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat: Microwave or heat in a pan with a splash of milk or broth to make it creamy again.
Pair it with…
Creamy mashed potatoes White or brown rice Rolls or buns for making sandwiches Steamed or sautéed vegetables (broccoli, green beans, carrots)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken straight from frozen? This is not recommended for food safety reasons. Defrost it first.
Is it too salty with ranch seasoning? It depends on the brand. You can adjust the salt to taste.
Can I use prepackaged shredded cheese? Yes, although freshly grated cheeses melt better and give a smoother texture.
Can it be made without cream cheese? Yes, although it will lose some of its creaminess. You can use Greek yogurt or light cream as an alternative.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Chicken breasts: It's recommended to use boneless, skinless breasts as they're leaner and quicker to cook. You can also use thighs for more flavor, or rotisserie chicken if you're short on time.
- Ranch seasoning: Adds that classic creamy, herb-laced flavor. You can substitute by mixing garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and dill.
- Cream cheese: Adds creaminess. If you prefer something lighter, use Greek yogurt (although it will change the flavor slightly). Vegan cream cheese also works.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds bold flavor and a creamy finish. Monterey Jack or Gouda are good alternatives.
- Bacon: Adds texture and smoky flavor. You can use turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version.
- Chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor. If you don't have any, you can use lightly salted water.
- Green onions: Optional, but adds freshness and color.
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Grades
If using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, reduce cooking time to 1–2 hours on low. This recipe is ideal for meal prep. Pair it with different side dishes to mix things up throughout the week.
Recommended tools
Slow cooker (crockpot) Shredding forks Silicone spatula Airtight containers for storage
Nutritional Information (estimated per serving)
Calories: 450 kcal Protein: 35 g Fat: 32 g Carbohydrates: 5 g
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use frozen chicken directly in the crockpot?
It's not recommended due to food safety concerns. Always thaw the chicken first for even, safe cooking.
- → Is the dish too salty with ranch seasoning?
It depends on the brand used. Start with less and adjust salt at the end to suit your taste.
- → Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of grating fresh?
Yes, but fresh cheese melts more smoothly and improves texture.
- → Can I skip the cream cheese?
Yes, although it will be less creamy. You can substitute with Greek yogurt or light cream for a lighter option.
- → What sides go best with this dish?
Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, or use it as a sandwich filling. Steamed veggies work great too.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw breasts?
Yes, use shredded rotisserie chicken and reduce the cooking time to 1–2 hours on low to warm everything through.