Savory Cheddar Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Slow cookers magically transform humble cheddar bacon ranch chicken into a comforting meal that whispers pure comfort.

Hearty ingredients meld together seamlessly in this one-pot wonder.

Weeknight dinners demand something simple yet packed with flavor.

Crispy bacon bits and melted cheese create an irresistible combination that will make everyone hover around the kitchen.

Ranch seasoning adds a tangy kick that elevates each tender bite.

Potatoes soak up all the delicious juices, becoming incredibly soft and rich.

Savor every mouthful of this ridiculously easy dish that comes together with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Crave Cheddar Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

• Combine creamy cheddar, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning for a mouthwatering dish that satisfies comfort food cravings.
• Eliminate multiple cooking steps and cleanup by preparing chicken and potatoes together in a single slow cooker, making dinner both convenient and delicious.
• Designed to appeal to all ages with familiar ingredients and crowd-pleasing flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What You Need for Cheddar Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

• Chicken Breasts: Main protein with a tender and juicy texture, choose fresh or fully thawed for best results.

• Ranch Seasoning Mix: Provides tangy and herbal flavor profile, any brand works well.
• Garlic, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: Classic seasoning blend for depth and enhancement of overall taste.

• Chicken Broth: Ensures moisture and adds subtle savory foundation, low-sodium recommended.
• Heavy Cream: Creates rich and creamy consistency, full-fat version preferred.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds sharp and melty cheese flavor, sharp variety recommended for stronger taste.

• Bacon: Provides crispy and smoky element, thick-cut bacon works best for maximum crunch.
• Fresh Parsley: Offers bright and fresh finishing touch, flat-leaf variety more flavorful.

How to Make Cheddar Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare Slow Cooker Surface

Grab your slow cooker and coat the inside with a light spray of nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Layer Protein and Veggies

Gently place chicken breasts and chopped potatoes into the slow cooker, creating an even layer.

Step 3: Create Flavor Profile

• Ranch seasoning mix
• Minced garlic
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Pour chicken broth evenly across the surface.

Step 4: Slow Cook Magic

• Low setting: 6-7 hours
• High setting: 3-4 hours

Cook until chicken is completely tender and potatoes are soft.

Step 5: Add Creamy Cheese Goodness

• Heavy cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Half of the crumbled bacon

Mix thoroughly and continue cooking until cheese melts smoothly.

Step 6: Final Garnish and Serve

Top with remaining crispy bacon bits and chopped fresh parsley. Serve piping hot and savor every delicious bite.

Tips to Nail Cheddar Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

• Prevent Chicken Dryness: Use chicken breasts with some fat content to keep the meat juicy and tender during slow cooking.
• Customize Ranch Flavor: Adjust ranch seasoning intensity by adding more or less mix depending on personal taste preferences.
• Bacon Crispness Hack: Reserve fresh bacon bits for final garnish to maintain maximum crunchiness and prevent sogginess.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese for lactose-intolerant guests.
• Potato Selection Matters: Choose waxy potatoes like red or yellow varieties that hold shape better during long, slow cooking process.

Reheating and Saving Cheddar Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Carefully transfer cooled chicken and potatoes to freezer-safe containers, sealing tightly to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, place leftovers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Add extra cheese on top for extra flavor.
• Place portion on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.

Sides That Match Cheddar Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

• Choose a light, zesty Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the rich, creamy chicken and balance the salty bacon flavors.
• Toss a bright arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a tangy, refreshing contrast to the hearty slow cooker dish.
• Select a hoppy IPA or smooth amber ale to enhance the cheesy, savory notes and stand up to the robust ranch and bacon elements.
• Serve warm, crusty sourdough or garlic bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce and provide a textural counterpoint.

Variations for Cheddar Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

• Keto-Friendly Version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets to reduce carbs. Use full-fat cream and sugar-free ranch seasoning. Maintain bacon and cheese for rich flavor.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap cheddar cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Keep bacon for protein and taste.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives. Replace bacon with smoky tempeh strips. Use vegetable broth for liquid base.
• Low-Sodium Option: Eliminate added salt. Choose low-sodium chicken broth. Use fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for seasoning. Select reduced-sodium ranch mix.

Got Questions? Cheddar Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes FAQ

• Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just add about 1-2 hours to the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked and reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

• What if I don't have ranch seasoning mix?

You can substitute with 2 tablespoons of dried herbs like dill, chives, and parsley mixed with garlic powder and onion powder to create a similar flavor profile.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe can be gluten-free if you use a gluten-free ranch seasoning mix. Always check the labels of your ingredients to confirm.

• Can I make this dish in the oven instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Bake in a covered dish at 375°F for about 45-60 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender. Add cheese and bacon during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Cheddar Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

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4.7 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 7 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty cheddar bacon ranch slow cooker chicken and potatoes bring comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen to your dinner table. Rich flavors meld together effortlessly, promising a meal that satisfies hunger and warms hearts with each savory bite.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 1 kg (2 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup chicken broth

Dairy and Cheese:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream or 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Seasonings and Vegetables:

• 1 packet (30 g) ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tablespoons homemade ranch mix)
• 500 g (1 lb) baby potatoes, halved (or red potatoes, diced)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
• Extra bacon crumbles (optional)

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Instructions

1. Coat the interior of the slow cooker with a thin layer of nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Arrange chicken breasts and diced potatoes evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker, creating a uniform base for cooking.
3. Generously dust the chicken and potatoes with ranch seasoning mix, minced garlic, onion powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to infuse deep flavor throughout the dish.
4. Gently pour chicken broth around the ingredients, ensuring the liquid settles underneath the meat and potatoes without disturbing the seasoning.
5. Secure the slow cooker lid and allow the contents to simmer on low temperature for 6-7 hours or on high temperature for 3-4 hours, letting the chicken become fork-tender and potatoes reach a soft, creamy consistency.
6. Approximately 30 minutes before serving, introduce heavy cream to create a rich, velvety sauce, then fold in sharp cheddar cheese and sprinkle most of the crumbled bacon, stirring carefully to distribute ingredients evenly.
7. Continue cooking until the cheese melts completely and creates a smooth, glossy coating over the chicken and potatoes.
8. Plate the dish, garnishing with remaining crispy bacon bits and freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant, appetizing presentation.

Notes

• Customize the ranch seasoning intensity by adjusting the amount to suit personal taste preferences.
• Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels, especially for those monitoring sodium intake.
• Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or milk for a lighter, lower-fat version of the dish.
• Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety, using a meat thermometer to check doneness.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 650 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Fat: 40 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg