Introduction

Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. The ranch seasoning adds a delicious twist to the classic chicken pasta recipe, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients

• Main Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 packet ranch dressing mix
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 lb. penne pasta
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Steps

1. Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

   Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the ranch dressing mix.

2. Step 2: Slow Cooker Assembly

   In a bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, and the remaining ranch dressing mix. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them.

3. Step 3: Cooking

   Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

4. Step 4: Pasta Preparation

   Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

5. Step 5: Shredding Chicken and Combining

   Shred the cooked chicken using two forks. Add the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, and cheddar cheese to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

6. Step 6: Serving

   Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy the creamy ranch chicken pasta hot!

Variations

You can customize this dish to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations you can try:

• Add diced vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Substitute the penne pasta with your favorite pasta shape such as bowtie, rotini, or fettuccine.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos to the sauce.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like mozzarella, parmesan, or pepper jack.

Tips

• For extra creaminess, you can add an additional dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• To save time, you can use a store-bought rotisserie chicken and shred it instead of cooking the chicken breasts from scratch.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to maintain the creaminess.

Conclusion

Savor the delightful flavors of Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta with its tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This easy and comforting dish is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Effortlessly prepare a satisfying meal for your family and friends with this delicious recipe!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different meat instead of chicken?

Yes, you can try this recipe with boneless pork chops or even turkey tenderloin for a different flavor profile.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure that the cream of chicken soup and ranch dressing mix are gluten-free as well.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

You can increase the amount of ranch dressing mix or add hot sauce to the sauce to dial up the heat.