Follow these easy steps to make your creamy ranch chicken pasta in the slow cooker:
- Prep the chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken.
- Add the liquids: Pour the can of cream of chicken soup over the chicken, followed by the chicken broth. Stir to combine a bit, making sure the chicken is coated with the sauce mixture.
- Cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. You can also cook it on high for 2-3 hours if you’re short on time.
- Shred the chicken: Once the chicken is done cooking, shred it directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir the shredded chicken into the creamy sauce, making sure everything is well combined.
- Add cream and cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese. Allow the mixture to heat for an additional 15-20 minutes on low, until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Cook the pasta: While the chicken mixture is finishing in the slow cooker, cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the slow cooker with the creamy chicken mixture. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the creamy ranch chicken pasta hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Serving and Storage
This creamy ranch chicken pasta is the perfect dish to serve with a simple side salad, some garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. It’s comforting and filling, and everyone is sure to enjoy it!
Storage:
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce, as it may thicken as it cools.
Freezing:
This recipe also freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat in a pot on the stove, adding a bit of broth or cream if needed.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time:
- Use frozen chicken: If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to add an extra 30-60 minutes to the cooking time, and check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
- Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute some of the heavy cream with milk or even a lighter version of cream (like half-and-half).
- Customize the seasoning: Feel free to add extra seasonings to your taste. Garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add more depth to the flavor.
- Cheese variations: For a different twist, try substituting mozzarella with cheddar cheese, parmesan, or a blend of cheeses for added richness.
- Make it spicy: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sliced jalapeños to the slow cooker along with the ranch seasoning mix.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and flavor. With minimal effort, you can prepare a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that the whole family will love. Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight dinner or for a laid-back weekend meal, this recipe delivers every time. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different seasonings or ingredients based on your preferences. This dish is the definition of comfort food, and it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While the recipe calls for 8 oz of pasta, feel free to use any type you prefer—penne, rotini, or spaghetti all work great. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions.
2. Can I make this recipe without ranch seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can create your own mix by combining dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder, along with a pinch of salt. You can also substitute it with other seasoning mixes like Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
3. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Bone-in chicken can be used, but you may need to cook it a little longer—typically 5-6 hours on low. Also, remember to remove the bones before shredding the chicken.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep everything the night before—just add the chicken, ranch seasoning, soup, and broth to the slow cooker insert, then refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, just set it to cook and continue with the recipe as directed.
5. Can I make this dish without a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and sauce on the stovetop by simmering it in a pot until the chicken is cooked through, then shred and mix in the cream and cheese. Cook the pasta separately and combine everything in the pot before serving.